Name: Simple Classic Chicken and Dressing - Recipe card
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Ingredients: Cornbread: The base of this recipe is cornbread; Chicken: Use cooked; Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and depth of flavor to the dressing. You can use homemade broth or store-bought; Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together (giving the dressing structure.); Onions and Celery: These aromatic vegetables bring a savory crunch and depth to the dressing. Sauté them in butter for a rich flavor.; Seasonings: Sage; Butter: Gives it more depth and helps the tastes blend.; Milk or Cream: If you prefer a creamier texture (add milk or a splash of cream to make it smooth and luscious.)

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A big bowl of chicken and dressing is the best way to make your table feel cozy and warm. You can make this food for Thanksgiving or a family dinner. The juicy chicken and delicious, seasoned sauce make for a memorable meal. A family favorite, especially in Southern homes, Black people’s chicken and dressing brings out the rich flavors of cornbread, chicken, and a mix of spices passed down from generation to generation. You can use this simple chicken dressing recipe as a side or main dish, making it a wonderful choice for any event. It also goes well with other recipes like pecan pie and cornbread dressing.

Simple Classic Chicken and Dressing Recipe card

The Comfort of Chicken and Dressing Recipe

A Southern favorite for many years, this chicken and dressing recipe will warm your heart. Whether you’re preparing it for Thanksgiving or another special occasion, this recipe, with its combination of cornbread, chicken, and delicious spices, perfectly balances each taste. You can change it up to suit your tastes, and everyone loves it. Want more kinds of things? Try our chicken and dressing recipe with less salt, or for a different take, try our chicken and dressing dish.

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Why We Love This Chicken and Dressing Recipe

Nostalgic Flavors: This recipe brings the warm, comforting taste of Southern cooking to your table.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.
Versatile: Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this recipe works for any occasion.
Flavorful Ingredients: Freshly baked cornbread and tender chicken blend together to create a rich, satisfying dish.
Customizable: Add extra ingredients like pecans for crunch or make it creamy with extra butter or cream.
Perfect for Thanksgiving: It’s the ultimate Thanksgiving dressing recipe, but it’s delicious year-round!

What You’ll Need to Make Chicken and Dressing

Ingredients

To make this southern dressing recipe, you’ll need some basic ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry:

The best SOUTHERN CORNBREAD CHICKEN AND DRESSING

Cornbread: The base of this recipe is cornbread, which gives the dressing its classic texture. You can use homemade or store-bought cornbread, but for the best results, we recommend baking your own. Cornbread recipe link here for an easy guide.
Chicken: Use cooked, shredded chicken. You can boil chicken breasts or roast a whole chicken for the juiciest results. If you’re looking for a low sodium chicken and dressing recipe, use skinless, boneless chicken breasts.
Chicken Broth: This adds moisture and depth of flavor to the dressing. You can use homemade broth or store-bought, but opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together, giving the dressing structure.
Onions and Celery: These aromatic vegetables bring a savory crunch and depth to the dressing. Sauté them in butter for a rich flavor.
Seasonings: Sage, thyme, black pepper, and a pinch of salt are the core spices in this recipe. If you like your dressing with a little extra heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Butter: Gives it more depth and helps the tastes blend.
Milk or Cream: If you prefer a creamier texture, add milk or a splash of cream to make it smooth and luscious.

Directions

Start by preparing your cornbread if you’re making it from scratch. Let it cool completely before using it in the dressing.
Warm the oven up to 175°F (350°C) and grease a big baking dish.
Melt the butter in a big pan over medium-low heat. Add diced onions and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until softened. The aroma will be amazing as these vegetables begin to release their flavors.
Next, crumble your cornbread into large pieces in a large mixing bowl. Add the sautéed onions and celery mixture, followed by shredded chicken and chicken broth. Make sure to mix the items well so that they are spread out evenly.
Beat the eggs in a separate bowl and add them to the mixture, along with your milk or cream. Stir everything together, ensuring the mixture is moist but not too runny.
Season with sage, thyme, salt, pepper, and any other spices you desire. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Place the mix in the baking dish that has been made, and then cover it with foil. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the dressing is golden brown and slightly crispy on top.

Nutrition Information

Cook Time: 1 hour
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main dish / Side dish
Kitchen Type: Southern-style, Home kitchen

Recipe Tips

How to Avoid Dry Dressing: Make sure the cornbread is crumbled into slightly larger pieces, as very fine crumbles can lead to a dry texture. Always keep the mixture moist before baking by adding extra chicken broth or cream.
Make It Ahead: You can prepare the dressing a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake the next day. This makes it an ideal dish for Thanksgiving and other busy holidays.
Substitute Ingredients: If you’re making a low sodium chicken and dressing recipe, opt for low-sodium chicken broth and avoid adding extra salt.
Crispy Topping: For an extra crispy top, bake the dressing uncovered in the last 15 minutes. This will give it a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy interior.
Extra Flavor: If you want a little extra zing, add a small amount of garlic powder or lemon zest for a bright twist on the traditional flavor.

Storage and Freezing

If you have leftovers, you can store the chicken dressing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the dressing cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. First, let it thaw overnight in the fridge. The next day, bake it at 350°F until it’s hot and bubbly.

Serving Recipe Ideas

Chicken and Dressing Casserole: Transform your leftovers into a comforting casserole by adding a little extra broth and cheese, then baking it until golden.
Serve with Gravy: For an extra indulgence, top the dressing with homemade or store-bought gravy.
Side for Roast Chicken: Serve as a side dish for a hearty roast chicken dinner, complementing the savory flavors of the bird.
Pecan Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with a pecan pie recipe. The rich sweetness pairs perfectly with the savory dressing.
Roasted Vegetables: Pair your chicken and dressing with a simple side of roasted vegetables for a balanced, satisfying meal.

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FAQs

What’s the difference between stuffing and dressing?
Stuffing is typically cooked inside the turkey, while dressing is made outside the bird, baked in a casserole dish. Both are very similar in ingredients and flavor.

Can I make chicken and dressing ahead of time?
Yes! The dressing can be made ahead of time and kept in the fridge. You only need to bake it the day you want to serve it.

Can I use store-bought cornbread?
Yes, you can use store-bought cornbread if you’re short on time. Just crumble it up and follow the rest of the recipe as usual.

How can I make my chicken and dressing spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to give your dressing a spicy kick.

Is it okay to freeze chicken and dressing?
Absolutely! Chicken and dressing freeze well. Just make sure it’s tightly wrapped and stored properly to maintain its flavor.

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