Chicken & Dressing Casserole Recipe

The Best Chicken & Dressing Casserole Recipe For Cozy Dinners

Southern kitchens have long celebrated this hearty chicken & dressing casserole that blends comfort and flavor in every delightful bite.

Generations of home cooks perfected the art of layering tender poultry with savory bread cubes.

Creamy textures and rich seasonings create a memorable meal that feels like a warm embrace.

Warm ovens and carefully selected ingredients promise a dish that brings people together around the table.

Crisp edges and soft centers make this casserole a crowd-pleasing favorite for weekend gatherings.

Subtle herbs and perfectly seasoned chicken elevate this classic recipe beyond ordinary weeknight dinners.

You’ll want to savor each mouthwatering spoonful and share this culinary treasure with everyone you love.

How to Prepare Chicken & Dressing Casserole

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Get your oven ready by setting it to 350°F (175°C).

This will ensure the perfect cooking temperature for your delicious casserole.

Step 2: Create the Flavor-Packed Mixture

Grab a large mixing bowl and combine these tasty ingredients:
  • Stuffing mix
  • Cream of chicken soup
  • Cream of celery soup
  • Chicken broth
  • Milk
  • Melted butter
  • Chopped celery
  • Diced onion

Stir everything together until well blended, creating a rich and creamy base.

Step 3: Layer the Chicken

Take a 9×13 inch baking dish and grease it lightly.

Spread the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of the dish, creating a tender foundation for your casserole.

Step 4: Pour and Spread the Mixture

Carefully pour the prepared stuffing mixture over the chicken.

Use a spatula to spread it evenly, making sure every inch of chicken is covered with the flavorful blend.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven.

Let it bake for 30-35 minutes.

You’ll know it’s done when the top turns a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling with deliciousness.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Pull the casserole out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.

Scoop out generous portions and enjoy the comforting, homemade goodness of this chicken and dressing casserole.

Pro Tips for Chicken & Dressing Casserole

  • Add extra chicken broth if the mixture seems too thick, ensuring a moist and creamy casserole that doesn't turn out crumbly or dry.
  • Sauté the celery and onions before mixing to release their natural sweetness and enhance the overall taste profile of the dish.
  • Replace cream soups with homemade versions or Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative that maintains the creamy texture.
  • Spread chicken evenly and break into small pieces to guarantee consistent flavor and texture in every single bite.
  • Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate, allowing flavors to meld together for an even more delicious meal.

Variations to Spice Up Chicken & Dressing Casserole

  • Vegetarian Comfort Bake: Replace chicken with firm tofu or plant-based chicken alternative, using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meatless version.
  • Gluten-Free Casserole Remix: Swap traditional stuffing mix with gluten-free breadcrumbs or quinoa, using gluten-free cream soups to accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • Low-Sodium Wellness Option: Reduce sodium by using low-sodium cream soups, homemade broth, and adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor without salt.
  • Mediterranean Inspiration: Incorporate feta cheese, spinach, and use olive oil instead of butter, adding Mediterranean herbs like oregano for a regional flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken & Dressing Casserole

  • Fresh Salad Sidekick: Pair this hearty casserole with a crisp green salad topped with sliced almonds and light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
  • Comforting Bread Companion: Serve warm crusty French bread or buttery dinner rolls alongside the casserole to soak up extra creamy sauce.
  • Veggie Harmony: Add roasted seasonal vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or green beans as a colorful and nutritious side dish to complement the rich chicken casserole.
  • Holiday Table Star: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and festive dinners where everyone craves a delicious, comforting main course.

Storage Advice for Chicken & Dressing Casserole

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
  • Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or wrap securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat oven to 350F, cover with foil, and warm for 20-25 minutes until heated through. Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp the top.
  • Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until temperature reaches 165F. Let stand for 1-2 minutes before serving.

FAQs

  • What kind of chicken works best for this casserole?

Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken are perfect because they’re already cooked and tender, making the preparation quick and easy.

  • Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole earlier in the day and refrigerate it. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to cook.

  • Is there a way to make this recipe more budget-friendly?

Use cheaper cuts of chicken like chicken thighs or buy chicken on sale. You can also substitute homemade cream soups instead of canned to reduce costs.

  • How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Mix in frozen mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans directly into the stuffing mixture for added nutrition and color.

Why Chicken & Dressing Casserole is Comfort Food

  • Whip Up Comfort: A classic casserole that wraps you in warm, homey flavors perfect for satisfying hungry families and creating instant smiles around the dinner table.
  • Simplify Meal Prep: Combines basic ingredients into a delicious one-dish wonder that requires minimal cooking skills and saves precious time during busy weeknights.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows swapping ingredients or adding personal touches like extra herbs, different soups, or topping with cheese to match your taste preferences.
  • Quick Family Pleaser: Delivers a hearty, filling meal that appeals to all ages, making it ideal for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or casual gatherings with loved ones.

Ingredients for Chicken & Dressing Casserole

Protein Base:
  • Chicken: Shredded chicken serves as the hearty foundation of this comforting casserole.
Bread and Soup Mixture:
  • Stuffing Mix: Classic dry bread mixture that provides texture and flavor to the casserole.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup, Cream of Celery Soup: Creamy condensed soups that add rich, savory moisture to the dish.
  • Chicken Broth: Liquid that helps bind the ingredients and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Dairy and Aromatics:
  • Milk: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth, cohesive casserole texture.
  • Butter: Provides richness and helps meld the ingredients together.
  • Celery, Onion: Fresh vegetables that contribute depth and a subtle aromatic base to the casserole.
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Chicken & Dressing Casserole Recipe

Chicken & Dressing Casserole Recipe


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4.8 from 26 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Southern chicken & dressing casserole blends comfort and tradition in one hearty dish. Layers of tender chicken, savory herbs, and creamy cornbread dressing create a soul-satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 4 cups chicken, shredded

Vegetables:

  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 1 cup onion, chopped

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 box stuffing mix
  • 1 can cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can cream of celery soup
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 0.5 cup milk
  • 0.25 cup butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven by heating to 350F (175C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a spacious mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, chicken broth, milk, melted butter, finely chopped celery, and diced onion until the mixture is well-blended and smooth.
  3. Distribute the shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish, creating a uniform base layer.
  4. Gently pour the prepared stuffing mixture over the chicken, using a spatula to spread it carefully and ensure complete coverage.
  5. Transfer the casserole to the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, watching for a golden-brown top and bubbling edges that indicate the dish is heated through.
  6. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving to help it set and enhance the flavors.
  7. Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy the comforting blend of chicken and savory stuffing.

Notes

  • Swap regular stuffing mix for gluten-free options to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Reduce sodium content by using low-sodium cream soups and homemade chicken broth for a healthier version.
  • Enhance flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the stuffing mixture for extra depth.
  • Prep chicken in advance by using rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken to save time and add more complex flavor profiles.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 312 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 740 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

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