Easy Chicken and Dressing Casserole Recipes
If you’re craving a cozy, heartwarming meal that brings comfort and delicious flavors to your table, look no further than a classic Chicken and Dressing Casserole. This dish combines tender chicken, savory dressing, and rich, creamy layers to create a satisfying and easy-to-make recipe perfect for any weeknight or special occasion. Whether you’re serving family or friends, this Chicken and Dressing Casserole promises warm flavors and simple preparation that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in every bite: The creamy texture and savory seasoning make this casserole feel like a warm hug at the end of a long day.
- Easy to prepare: With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, it’s a perfect go-to meal for busy cooks.
- Versatile and customizable: You can easily swap ingredients to suit dietary preferences or leftovers on hand.
- Great for leftovers: This casserole reheats beautifully without losing flavor or texture.
- Family-friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that everyone from kids to grandparents will enjoy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Chicken and Dressing Casserole is thoughtfully chosen to balance flavor, texture, and color, making the dish both delicious and visually appealing. Simple kitchen staples come together to create a rich, satisfying meal.
- Cooked Chicken: Use shredded or diced chicken for tender, protein-packed goodness.
- Dressing Mix: Classic cornbread or herb stuffing mix adds a comforting, textured base.
- Chicken Broth: Provides moistness and deepens the savory flavor.
- Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: Brings creamy richness and helps bind the casserole.
- Onion and Celery: Fresh vegetables add a subtle crunch and aromatic depth.
- Butter: Enhances flavor and lends a smooth finish to the casserole.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or sage complement the comforting profile.
Variations for Chicken and Dressing Casserole
This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, making it easy to tailor the Chicken and Dressing Casserole to your tastes or dietary needs. Experiment with different add-ins or swaps to create your personal favorite.
- Vegetarian version: Replace chicken with hearty mushrooms or mixed vegetables for a meat-free option.
- Gluten-free substitution: Use gluten-free stuffing mix and broth to accommodate sensitivities.
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños for a subtle heat boost.
- Cheesy upgrade: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a melty, indulgent texture.
- Herb variations: Swap sage for rosemary or parsley to refresh the flavor profile.
How to Make Chicken and Dressing Casserole
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables
Start by shredding cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and finely chopping onion and celery. This fresh base will provide texture and depth to your casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Dressing Base
In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix with softened butter, chicken broth, and condensed cream of mushroom soup. The mixture should be moist but not soupy, ensuring the final casserole holds together well.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Fold the shredded chicken, onion, and celery into the dressing mixture, evenly distributing the flavors and textures throughout.
Step 4: Season and Transfer
Add salt, pepper, and any chosen herbs like thyme or sage to taste. Then transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 to 40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the inside is hot and bubbling.
Pro Tips for Making Chicken and Dressing Casserole
- Use day-old bread or dressing mix: Slightly stale ingredients soak up broth better for a perfect texture.
- Don’t overmix: Gentle folding keeps the dressing light and fluffy instead of dense.
- Customize seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and herbs before baking for balanced flavors.
- Add a crunchy topping: Sprinkle crushed crackers or fried onions on top for extra texture.
- Use rotisserie chicken: Saves time without sacrificing flavor or quality.
How to Serve Chicken and Dressing Casserole
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and mild freshness, balancing the creamy richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty casserole with crisp green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh garden salad to introduce light, complementary flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for charming, personalized portions or scoop into warm bread bowls for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
Freeze uncooked casserole in a sealed dish or freezer bag for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in shorter intervals, stirring occasionally for even heat.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bread instead of stuffing mix?
Yes, day-old bread cubes work best for the dressing, but fresh bread can be used if dried slightly in the oven beforehand to reduce moisture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely. Simply substitute the condensed mushroom soup and butter with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk-based soup and plant-based margarine.
Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken?
Definitely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully, offering similar flavor and texture to chicken in this casserole.
How do I make the casserole crispy on top?
Adding a buttered breadcrumb topping or crushed crackers and broiling the last few minutes can give you a nice golden, crispy crust.
Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping since it holds up well in the fridge and freezes nicely, making future meals hassle-free.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Dressing Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending familiar flavors into a nourishing and easy dish that feels like home. Whether you’re new to cooking casseroles or a seasoned pro, this recipe invites you to relax, enjoy, and share moments around the table filled with warmth and satisfaction. Give it a try—it just might become your new favorite go-to meal.
PrintChicken and Dressing Casserole
A classic Chicken and Dressing Casserole combining tender chicken, savory herb dressing, creamy soup, and fresh vegetables baked to golden perfection. This comforting, easy-to-make casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, adaptable for various dietary needs, and loved by family and friends.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free stuffing mix and broth)
Ingredients
Protein
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
Dressing Base
- 1 package (6 to 8 oz) cornbread or herb stuffing mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup (4 tablespoons) butter, softened
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
Seasonings
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or sage (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: Shred cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and finely chop the onion and celery. This fresh base provides texture and depth to your casserole.
- Mix the Dressing Base: In a large bowl, combine the stuffing mix with softened butter, chicken broth, and condensed cream of mushroom soup. Stir well until the mixture is moist but not soupy, ensuring the casserole holds together nicely.
- Combine Ingredients: Gently fold the shredded chicken, chopped onion, and celery into the dressing mixture, evenly distributing flavors and textures.
- Season and Transfer: Add salt, pepper, and chosen herbs like thyme or sage to taste. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake Until Golden: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbling throughout.
Notes
- Use day-old bread or dressing mix for better broth absorption and texture.
- Don’t overmix; fold gently to keep the dressing light and fluffy.
- Customize seasoning by tasting and adjusting salt and herbs before baking.
- For extra texture, sprinkle crushed crackers or fried onions on top before baking.
- Using rotisserie chicken saves time without compromising flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: chicken casserole, dressing casserole, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meal, creamy chicken bake