Chicken & Dressing Casserole

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Imagine a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and a sense of tradition to your table—Chicken & Dressing Casserole is exactly that. This Southern classic is a staple during Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other festive gatherings, cherished for its rich flavors and satisfying texture. Passed down through generations, this recipe is a testament to family traditions and culinary mastery.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken & Dressing Casserole is sure to become a favorite for several reasons:

• Rich Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, savory dressing, and aromatic herbs ensures every bite is delicious.
• Comforting and Familiar: A traditional dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and holidays.
• Easy to Prepare: With clear, step-by-step instructions, you’ll find it simple to recreate this classic dish.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Deep skillet or heavy pan
• Large bowl
• Medium skillet
• 9 x 13 baking dish
• Foil

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cups water
• 2 stalks celery
• 2 garlic cloves

For Dressing

• 1 pan skillet cornbread
• 12 ounce package herb seasoned classic stuffing
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 large onion, diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3-4 cups chicken broth
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons ground sage
• 1 tablespoon plus 2 teaspoons granulated garlic
• 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary
• 1 tablespoon ground pepper
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

1. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add to a deep skillet with olive oil and cook on both sides until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Add water, celery, and garlic cloves. Bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes.
3. Remove chicken to a plate to cool slightly. Remove skin and bones, then shred or roughly chop the chicken. Set broth aside.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Crumble baked cornbread into a large bowl, then add seasoned stuffing crumbs.
6. Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and celery, cooking until softened. Stir in cream and mix well.
7. Pour the onion mixture over the cornbread mixture and add chicken.
8. Mix 2 cups of reserved broth with beaten eggs, pour over dry ingredients, and stir until combined.
9. Add more broth 1/2 cup at a time until well moistened but not runny.
10. Add garlic, sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper, mixing until thoroughly combined.
11. Pour mixture into a well-greased 9 x 13 baking dish, spreading evenly.
12. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove foil and bake for another 30 minutes or until the top and edges are browned.

Tips for Success

• Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken for the best flavor.
• Moisture is Key: Ensure the dressing mixture is moist to prevent a dry casserole.

Additional Tips or Variations

Add chopped pecans or cranberries for a twist on the traditional recipe. For a spicier version, include a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While specific nutritional values will depend on serving size, each portion of this casserole is packed with protein and comforting flavors, making it a satisfying main dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely, but note that thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful.

Conclusion

This Chicken & Dressing Casserole is a delightful addition to any holiday meal, offering a taste of tradition and comfort. We invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences. Your family is sure to love it as much as ours does!

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