Description
This classic Southern-style chicken dressing recipe combines moist cornbread, tender shredded chicken, savory herbs, and sautéed veggies for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for holidays or cozy family dinners, this rich and flavorful dish is easy to prepare and full of old-fashioned warmth.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 5 cups crumbled cornbread (day-old preferred)
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 large eggs
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter
- 2½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (or mix of sage and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 cup chopped boiled eggs
- ½ cup cooked sausage crumbles
Instructions
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large baking dish and set aside. -
Cook the Veggies
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add chopped celery and onion. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. -
Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, sautéed veggies, and shredded chicken. Mix gently. -
Add Liquids and Seasoning
Add in chicken broth a little at a time, stirring gently to moisten the mixture. Mix in eggs, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. -
Add Optional Ingredients
Stir in cream of chicken soup, herbs, or sausage if using. Make sure everything is evenly mixed but not soggy. -
Bake the Dressing
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crisp. -
Let It Rest and Serve
Allow the dish to sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with gravy or on its own.
Notes
- Use dry, day-old cornbread for the best texture. Fresh cornbread can make the mix too mushy.
- Rotisserie chicken works well as a shortcut for this recipe.
- To avoid overmixing, gently fold ingredients together just until combined.
- Make the dish up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and store in the fridge until ready to bake.
- If reheating leftovers, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 55
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Keywords: chicken dressing, chicken stuffing, Southern recipes, cornbread dressing, holiday side dish, baked chicken casserole, family dinner recipe, traditional dressing