chicken and dressing casserole

Indulge in Comfort with Chicken and Dressing Casserole: A Hearty Dish to Warm Your Soul

Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with our Chicken and Dressing Casserole recipe – a classic dish that combines tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight meal or planning a family gathering, this casserole is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm your soul. Join us as we dive into the world of comforting flavors and hearty satisfaction with this timeless recipe.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 1 package (8 oz) cornbread stuffing mix
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of celery soup
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Prepare Stuffing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornbread stuffing mix with the melted butter and chicken broth. Mix until well combined.
3. Saute Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and celery until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of chicken soup, condensed cream of celery soup, dried sage, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
5. Assemble Casserole: Spread half of the stuffing mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Layer the cooked and shredded chicken on top of the stuffing, followed by the sautéed onion and celery mixture.
6. Pour Soup Mixture: Pour the soup mixture evenly over the chicken and vegetables in the baking dish.
7. Top with Remaining Stuffing: Spread the remaining half of the stuffing mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese over the top of the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.
• Make it Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the soup mixture for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this casserole.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use homemade stuffing instead of the packaged mix? Yes, you can use homemade stuffing if preferred. Simply prepare your favorite stuffing recipe and use it in place of the packaged mix in this recipe.
2. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
3. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze leftovers for future meals. Allow the casserole to cool completely, then cut it into individual portions and wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bags and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

For a keto or low-carb version of Chicken and Dressing Casserole, you can replace the cornbread stuffing mix with a low-carb alternative such as almond flour or crushed pork rinds. Use cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice in the soup mixture, and substitute heavy cream for the condensed soups. Additionally, use cooked and shredded chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for added fat content.

Chicken and Dressing Casserole is a timeless comfort food classic that’s perfect for any occasion. With its hearty combination of tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether enjoyed for a cozy weeknight dinner or served at a holiday gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and prepare to indulge in the comforting flavors of this beloved dish – it’s a taste of home that you’ll want to savor time and time again!