Chicken & Dressing Casserole Recipe

Looking for a hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for family dinners or potlucks? Our Chicken & Dressing Casserole is the answer. This dish combines tender chicken with savory stuffing, rich soups, and melted cheese to create a meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. Keep reading to discover how to make this delicious casserole and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills.

What is Chicken & Dressing Casserole?

Chicken & Dressing Casserole is a baked dish that combines diced cooked chicken with a mixture of seasoned stuffing, creamy soups, and sometimes cheese. This comforting casserole is often enjoyed during holidays like Thanksgiving but is versatile enough to be a favorite all year round. The casserole is easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or large gatherings.

Ingredients List for Chicken & Dressing Casserole

To make this delicious Chicken & Dressing Casserole, you'll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 (10 ¾-ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
• 1 (10 ¾-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups diced cooked chicken
• ½ cup melted unsalted butter
• 1 (6- to 8-ounce) package herb-seasoned stuffing mix, or homemade stuffing (3 to 4 cups)
• 1 cup shredded Swiss or cheddar cheese, optional

Optional Ingredients:

• Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or thyme)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup diced onions or celery for added texture and flavor

Substitutions and Variations

• Soups: If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute with cream of chicken soup or even cream of broccoli soup.
• Cheese: Use any type of cheese you prefer or have on hand. Mozzarella, Gouda, or even a spicy Pepper Jack can add a unique twist.
• Stuffing Mix: You can use cornbread stuffing mix for a different flavor profile. Homemade stuffing with your favorite herbs and spices works great too.
• Vegetables: Add diced carrots, peas, or green beans to the casserole for extra nutrition and color.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking this Chicken & Dressing Casserole is straightforward and quick. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.

How to Cook Chicken & Dressing Casserole: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready when you finish preparing the casserole.
2. Prepare the Chicken: If you don’t have pre-cooked chicken, cook and dice your chicken breasts or thighs. Boiling or baking works well.
3. Mix the Soups and Broth: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of celery soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, and chicken broth. Stir until well mixed.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the diced cooked chicken, melted butter, and herb-seasoned stuffing mix to the soup mixture. Mix until all ingredients are evenly coated.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
6. Add Cheese: If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to cut and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Chicken: Ensure your chicken is cooked just until done to avoid dry, tough pieces in your casserole.
• Too Much Liquid: Stick to the recommended amounts of soups and broth to prevent a runny casserole.
• Skipping the Butter: The melted butter helps bind the stuffing mix and adds essential flavor, so don’t skip it.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Chicken & Dressing Casserole

• Family Style: Serve the casserole straight from the baking dish for a casual family dinner. Pair it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread.
• Individual Portions: For a more elegant presentation, cut the casserole into individual portions and serve on plates with a garnish of fresh herbs.

Presentation Ideas for Chicken & Dressing Casserole

• Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley, chives, or a dash of paprika on top for a pop of color.
• Side Dishes: Serve with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
• Serving Dish: Use a beautiful, oven-to-table casserole dish to make the presentation more appealing.

Chicken & Dressing Casserole Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Freezing: This casserole freezes well. Assemble it but do not bake. Cover tightly and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use leftover turkey instead of chicken? A: Absolutely! Leftover turkey works just as well as chicken in this casserole, making it a perfect post-holiday meal.

Q: What can I use if I don’t have stuffing mix? A: If you don't have stuffing mix, you can use cubed bread seasoned with your favorite herbs and spices. Add some sautéed onions and celery for extra flavor.

Q: Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free? A: Yes, use gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure your soups are gluten-free to make a gluten-free version of this casserole.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this casserole? A: Definitely! Adding vegetables like peas, carrots, or green beans can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

Q: How can I make the casserole creamier? A: For a creamier casserole, add a bit of sour cream or cream cheese to the soup mixture before combining with the other ingredients.

Conclusion

Our Chicken & Dressing Casserole is a delicious and versatile dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its simple preparation and comforting flavors, it's sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Remember to experiment with different ingredients and make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!

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