Nothing says comfort like a warm, savory chicken and dressing casserole! This dish is an absolute lifesaver when you’re looking for something hearty and delicious without spending all day in the kitchen. I love how it uses leftover chicken, making it super easy to whip up on a busy weeknight. The combination of tender chicken, savory dressing, and a hint of spices creates a cozy meal that warms the soul. Plus, it’s one of those recipes where you can feel free to add your favorite veggies or seasonings, making it truly your own!
Ingredients List
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
How to Prepare Savory Chicken and Dressing Casserole
Preheat Your Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a super important step, as it ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden brown. So, go ahead and set that temperature while you get everything else ready!
Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine your shredded chicken, chopped celery, chopped onion, garlic powder, and black pepper. I always make sure to mix these ingredients thoroughly because that’s where all the flavor starts! Give it a good stir until everything is well coated and evenly distributed. Trust me, you want every bite to be packed with deliciousness!
Combine with Stuffing
Now, it’s time to add the stuffing mix to your chicken mixture. Gently fold it in, making sure it’s well combined. This step is crucial because the stuffing will soak up all the yummy flavors and juices, so don’t rush through it! You want every piece of that stuffing to be mixed in well.
Add Liquid Ingredients
Next, pour in the chicken broth and milk. This is where the magic happens! Stir everything together until it’s fully combined. You want a nice, moist mixture that’s not too dry, so make sure to mix it well. I like to use a spatula to really get in there and blend it all together.
Transfer to Baking Dish
Now, grab a greased baking dish—this is important to prevent sticking later! Carefully transfer your chicken mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. I like to use a spatula for this part too, as it helps to make sure everything is packed down nicely. You want it to bake evenly, after all!
Drizzle with Butter
Here’s where the flavor really shines! Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole. This will add a wonderful richness and help create that golden, crispy top we all love. Just imagine the smell wafting through your kitchen as it bakes—amazing!
Baking Time
Finally, pop your casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s heated through and the top is a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to make sure it doesn’t get too dark. You want it to look as good as it tastes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: It comes together in just about 15 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Comfort food at its finest: This savory chicken and dressing casserole is like a warm hug on a plate.
- Utilizes leftover chicken: No need to waste that cooked chicken—this dish is a delicious way to use it up!
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it truly your own.
- Feeds a crowd: With 6 generous servings, it’s great for family dinners or potlucks.
- Easy to store: Leftovers keep well in the fridge for a few days, making for effortless meals.
- Kid-friendly: The flavors are familiar and comforting, perfect for even the pickiest eaters.
Tips for Success
- Use Day-Old Bread: If you have any leftover bread, let it sit out overnight to dry out a bit. This will create a sturdier stuffing that holds up beautifully in the casserole!
- Add Fresh Herbs: Don’t shy away from adding a handful of fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary to the mix. They’ll elevate the flavor and make your dish truly sing!
- Mix Up the Veggies: Feel free to throw in some frozen peas, carrots, or even chopped spinach. It adds color, flavor, and nutrients, making it a well-rounded meal.
- Check for Moisture: If you find your mixture is a bit dry before baking, don’t hesitate to add a splash more chicken broth or milk. You want it to be moist but not soupy!
- Let It Rest: After baking, let the casserole sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up nicely and makes for easier serving without falling apart.
- Top It Off: For an extra touch, consider sprinkling some shredded cheese or crispy fried onions on top for the last few minutes of baking. It adds a delightful crunch and flavor!
Variations
One of the best things about this savory chicken and dressing casserole is how versatile it is! You can easily mix things up to keep it exciting and tailored to your taste. Here are some fun ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Veggie Delight: Add in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet corn for a pop of color and extra nutrients. Just make sure to sauté them a bit first to soften their texture!
- Herbed Up: Experiment with different herbs and spices! Try adding some dried thyme, sage, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick. Fresh herbs are also a fantastic option!
- Mushroom Medley: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms for a deeper, earthy flavor. They pair beautifully with chicken and add a nice meaty texture!
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in some shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, into the chicken mixture before baking. You’ll love the gooey, melty goodness that results!
- Southwestern Flair: For a fun twist, add black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Top with some crushed tortilla chips for a crunchy finish!
- Asian Inspired: Swap out the chicken broth for low-sodium soy sauce or chicken broth mixed with sesame oil. Toss in some green onions and water chestnuts for a unique flavor profile!
Feel free to get creative and make this casserole your own! Each variation brings its own flair while keeping that comforting essence we all love. Enjoy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover savory chicken and dressing casserole can be a lifesaver for those busy days ahead! To store, simply let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I love making extra so I can enjoy it again later—it’s just as comforting the second time around!
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If the casserole is cold from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before reheating. This helps it heat more evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through. You can also pop it in the microwave if you’re in a hurry—just make sure to cover it to avoid splatters, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until it’s warmed up. Enjoy the cozy goodness all over again!
Nutritional Information
Curious about what’s in your comforting bowl of savory chicken and dressing casserole? Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (1 cup). Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
This dish is not only satisfying but also a great source of protein, making it a well-rounded meal option for you and your family. Enjoy every delicious bite, knowing it’s a hearty choice!
FAQ Section
Can I make this savory chicken and dressing casserole gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make it gluten-free, just use gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free. It’s super easy to adapt, so you can still enjoy this comforting dish!
What can I serve alongside the casserole?
This casserole pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. You might also consider serving it with some crusty bread to soak up those delicious flavors!
How can I reheat leftovers?
You can reheat your savory chicken and dressing casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or pop it in the microwave for a quick fix. Just be sure to cover it to keep it moist!
Can I freeze this casserole?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It should keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What other proteins can I use?
If you want to mix things up, feel free to use shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken! They both work beautifully and add a different twist to the dish while still keeping that comforting essence.
Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! You can add in your favorite veggies like peas, carrots, or even chopped spinach. Just make sure to adjust cooking times slightly if you’re adding more moisture from the veggies!
Savory Chicken and Dressing Casserole: 6 Comforting Tips
- Całkowity Czas: 50 minutes
- Ustępować: 6 servings 1x
- Dieta: Bez Glutenu
Opis
A comforting dish made with chicken and savory dressing.
Składniki
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup milk
Instrukcje
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, celery, onion, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Add stuffing mix to the chicken mixture.
- Pour in chicken broth and milk, then stir until combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Drizzle melted butter over the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until heated through and golden brown.
Uwagi
- Use leftover chicken for quicker preparation.
- Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Czas Przygotowania: 15 minutes
- Czas gotowania: 35 minutes
- Kategoria: Main Dish
- Sposób: Baking
- Kuchnia: American
Zasilanie
- Wielkość porcji: 1 cup
- Kalorie: 350
- Cukier: 2g
- Sód: 600mg
- Kwasy: 15g
- Nasycony tłuszcz: 8g
- Tłuszcze Nienasycone: 5g
- Tłuszcze trans: 0g
- Węglowodany: 30g
- Włókno: 2g
- Białko: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Słowa kluczowe: savory chicken and dressing casserole
