The Ultimate Chicken and Dressing Recipe: Comfort Food at Its Best
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| Chicken and Dressing Recipe |
What is Chicken and Dressing?
Chicken and dressing is a Southern-inspired dish traditionally made with shredded chicken, cornbread dressing, and flavorful seasonings. It’s a staple at Thanksgiving dinners but is equally delightful as a standalone meal. The dressing, often made with cornbread and a blend of aromatic vegetables, serves as the perfect accompaniment to the tender chicken.
Ingredients
To make this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
|
Ingredient |
Quantity |
|
Boneless chicken breast |
2 pounds |
|
Cornbread |
4 cups (crumbled) |
|
Chicken broth |
3 cups |
|
Celery |
1 cup (chopped) |
|
Onion |
1 cup (chopped) |
|
Butter |
½ cup (melted) |
|
Eggs |
2 large |
|
Sage |
1 tsp |
|
Salt |
To taste |
|
Black pepper |
To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
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| Chicken and Dressing Recipe |
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Begin by boiling the chicken breasts in a large pot of salted water until fully cooked (approximately 20–25 minutes).
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pot, let it cool, and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Make the Cornbread
- If you’re using homemade cornbread, bake it in advance and allow it to cool. The cornmeal should be crumbled into a large mixing dish.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, and cook for about five minutes, or until they are tender.
4. Combine the Ingredients
- In the mixing bowl with the crumbled cornbread, add the sautéed vegetables, shredded chicken, and seasonings (sage, salt, and pepper).
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and chicken broth together. Pour this mixture over the cornbread and chicken, stirring until everything is well combined.
5. Bake the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish that has been oiled.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is set.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Give the dish five to ten minutes to cool before serving. Combine it with your preferred sides to make a full supper!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the essential nutrients per serving (based on six servings):
|
Nutrient |
Per Serving |
|
Calories |
310 kcal |
|
Protein |
25 g |
|
Carbohydrates |
20 g |
|
Fat |
12 g |
|
Fiber |
2 g |
|
Sodium |
450 mg |
Note: Nutritional values may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dressing
- Use Homemade Chicken Broth: Homemade chicken broth adds a rich, savory flavor that enhances the dish.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak the amount of sage, salt, and pepper based on your preferences.
- Add Extra Ingredients: For a twist, consider adding chopped pecans, dried cranberries, or sautéed mushrooms to the dressing.
- Make Ahead: Chicken and dressing can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply bake it before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: The recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients and is straightforward to prepare.
- Customizable: You can adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.
- Comforting and Delicious: The combination of chicken and cornbread dressing is guaranteed to satisfy your comfort food cravings.
Conclusion
Chicken and dressing is a timeless dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
So, gather your ingredients and get cooking. Your family and friends will thank you for bringing this comforting classic to the table!