A Southern Comfort Classic
Cornbread Dressing with Chicken |
Cornbread dressing with chicken is a quintessential Southern dish that brings hearty, comforting flavors to the table. This recipe is often enjoyed during the holiday season, but its simple ingredients and rich taste make it a year-round favorite. With its combination of moist cornbread, tender chicken, and a blend of aromatic herbs and vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare.
In this article, we’ll dive into a step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect cornbread dressing with chicken. You’ll also find helpful tips, variations, and nutritional information to make this meal a wholesome addition to your recipe collection.
What Makes Cornbread Dressing with Chicken Special?
Cornbread dressing with chicken combines the buttery, crumbly texture of cornbread with flavorful chicken and savory seasonings. The dressing is moistened with chicken broth and baked to golden perfection, creating a dish that’s soft and moist on the inside with a slightly crispy top. It’s a nostalgic dish that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or even a casual family dinner.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering dish:
Ingredient |
Quantity |
Cornbread (crumbled) |
4 cups |
Cooked chicken (shredded) |
2 cups |
Chicken broth |
2½ cups |
Onion |
1 cup (chopped) |
Celery |
1 cup (chopped) |
Butter |
½ cup (melted) |
Eggs |
2 large |
Poultry seasoning |
1 tsp |
Dried sage |
1 tsp |
Salt and pepper |
To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cornbread
- Start with freshly baked cornbread or use leftover cornbread. Crumble it into a large mixing bowl.
2. Cook the Chicken
- If the chicken isn’t already cooked, boil or roast chicken breasts until tender. Once cool, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
3. Sauté Vegetables
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and celery until they are soft and translucent, about 5–7 minutes.
4. Mix the Ingredients
- Combine the crumbled cornbread, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper in the mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over the cornbread and chicken, mixing until the dressing is moist but not overly soggy.
5. Bake the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and transfer the mixture into it.
- Spread the dressing evenly and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the dressing to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Pair it with a side of cranberry sauce or gravy for an unforgettable meal!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the essential nutrients per serving (based on eight servings):
Nutrient |
Per Serving |
Calories |
280 kcal |
Protein |
18 g |
Carbohydrates |
25 g |
Fat |
10 g |
Fiber |
2 g |
Sodium |
400 mg |
Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and preparation methods.
Tips for Perfect Cornbread Dressing with Chicken
- Use Day-Old Cornbread: Slightly stale cornbread absorbs the broth better, preventing a mushy texture.
- Adjust the Moisture: Add more chicken broth if the mixture feels too dry, but avoid making it too wet.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try adding thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a unique flavor profile.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled a day in advance and baked just before serving.
Variations
- Add Sausage: For an extra layer of flavor, include cooked sausage crumbles in the dressing.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the items are pantry staples or easily accessible at your local store.
- Customizable: You can adapt the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or flavor preferences.
- Great for Gatherings: This dish feeds a crowd and pairs wonderfully with other sides like green beans or mashed potatoes.
Conclusion
Cornbread dressing with chicken is more than just a recipe—it’s a tradition. Its rich, savory flavors make it a go-to dish for comforting family meals or special celebrations. With its easy preparation and versatile ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.
Call to Action:
Ready to try this Southern classic? Follow this recipe today and enjoy the warm, comforting taste of cornbread dressing with chicken. For more delicious recipes, visit Gold Food Recipes for inspiration!