If you’re looking for a dish that wraps you in a warm hug, look no further than my savory chicken and dressing casserole! This is the kind of meal that brings families together, filling the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that just scream comfort food. I remember the first time I made it for my family; we were all gathered around the table, and with each bite, I could see the smiles spreading across their faces. It’s simple to whip up and perfect for those busy weeknights when you just want to enjoy some quality time with loved ones. Trust me, this casserole is the ultimate crowd-pleaser and a staple in my home for a reason. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 package (12 oz) stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
How to Prepare *Savory Chicken and Dressing Casserole*
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden top. So go ahead and set that temperature while you gather your ingredients!
Combine Ingredients
Now, grab a large bowl and let’s get mixing! Start by adding the shredded chicken, the entire package of stuffing mix, and that creamy can of chicken soup. Then pour in your chicken broth—this is where the magic happens! Next, toss in the chopped celery and onion, along with the garlic powder and black pepper. You’ll want to stir everything together until it’s well mixed. The mixture should be nice and cohesive, with all those flavors blending beautifully. Trust me, the aroma will be heavenly!
Transfer to Baking Dish
Once everything is mixed up, it’s time to transfer the goodness into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Just pour the mixture in and spread it out evenly. Make sure it fills the dish nicely, so you get those perfectly cooked edges—yum!
Bake the Casserole
Now for the best part—baking! Pop the dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it; look for that gorgeous golden-brown top and a bubbly filling. A little crispy edge is always a welcome treat! Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. Your kitchen is about to smell like pure comfort food bliss!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a hearty dish like my savory chicken and dressing casserole, it’s nice to know what you’re indulging in! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values you can expect per serving (about 1 cup). Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
This casserole is not just delicious; it’s also packed with protein, making it a filling option for any meal. Enjoy the comfort without the guilt!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights!
- A comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the belly.
- Made with simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
- Deliciously versatile—great for family dinners or potlucks.
- Leftovers taste amazing and are perfect for lunch the next day.
- One-pan meal means less cleanup, which is always a win!
- Rich in protein and fiber, making it a nutritious choice for the whole family.
- Kids love it—who can resist that creamy, savory goodness?
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or seasonings for a personal touch.
Tips for Success
Let’s make sure your savory chicken and dressing casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to help you nail this dish every time:
- Use Up Leftovers: If you’ve got leftover roast chicken or turkey, this is the perfect recipe to repurpose it! Just shred it up and toss it in. It adds so much flavor and makes this dish even more special.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables! Peas, carrots, or even green beans can add a nice touch. Just remember to chop them small so they cook evenly.
- Homemade Chicken Broth: If you have the time, using homemade chicken broth can elevate the flavor of your casserole. It’s worth it for that extra depth of taste!
- Watch the Baking Time: Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on your casserole as it bakes. If you see that beautiful golden top before the full 30-35 minutes are up, you can take it out early! Just make sure it’s bubbly in the center.
- Let It Rest: After you take it out of the oven, let your casserole rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it firm up a bit and makes serving easier!
- Season to Taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings! If you like a bit more garlic or pepper, sprinkle some in. Taste as you go to make it your own!
- Freezing for Later: If you want to make this ahead of time, you can assemble the casserole and freeze it before baking. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before popping it in the oven. You’ll have a delicious meal ready to go!
With these tips, I know you’ll create a savory chicken and dressing casserole that’s not just good, but absolutely drool-worthy! Happy cooking!
Variations
Now, let’s talk about how you can mix things up with your savory chicken and dressing casserole! There are so many fun ways to put your own spin on this classic dish, and I can’t wait to share some of my favorite variations:
- Turkey Delight: Swap out the chicken for turkey! This is a fantastic way to use up any leftover turkey after the holidays. The flavors blend beautifully, and it’s just as comforting.
- Veggie Power: Add in some chopped vegetables like bell peppers, diced carrots, or even spinach for extra nutrition. Just make sure to chop them finely, so they cook evenly with the rest of the casserole.
- Cheesy Goodness: Who doesn’t love cheese? Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top during the last few minutes of baking for a gooey, cheesy finish that will make your casserole even more indulgent!
- Herb Infusion: Want to take the flavor up a notch? Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley into your mixture. Fresh herbs can really brighten up the dish and add a lovely aroma.
- Savory Mushroom: For a rich, earthy twist, toss in some sautéed mushrooms. They add a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy filling.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. It’s a fun way to spice things up and give your casserole a little extra zing!
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free stuffing mix and check that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as well. You won’t miss a beat with flavor!
These variations can help keep your savory chicken and dressing casserole exciting and fresh. Feel free to experiment and find the combinations that your family loves most. Happy cooking, and enjoy the delicious journey!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers are one of the best parts of making my savory chicken and dressing casserole! It’s super easy to store and reheat, so you can enjoy the comforting flavors again. Here’s how to keep your casserole fresh:
- Storing Leftovers: Once your casserole has cooled down, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Just make sure to seal it well to keep that deliciousness intact!
- Freezing for Later: If you want to save some for another day, you can freeze the casserole! Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then pop it in a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat your casserole, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If it’s frozen, make sure it’s fully thawed first. Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent it from drying out, and heat for about 20–25 minutes or until warmed through. If you like a crispy top, you can uncover it for the last 5–10 minutes. Oh, and don’t forget to check the center to ensure it’s heated all the way through!
Alternatively, if you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just place a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot. It’s quick and convenient!
With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to savor every last bite of your savory chicken and dressing casserole, making mealtime just as delightful the second time around!
What to Serve with *Savory Chicken and Dressing Casserole*
Now that you’ve got this delicious savory chicken and dressing casserole ready to go, you might be wondering what to serve alongside it to make a complete meal. I’ve got some fantastic ideas that perfectly complement the flavors of the casserole while adding a little variety to your dinner table!
- Green Salad: A fresh, crisp green salad is always a winner! Toss together some mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette. It’s a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: How about some roasted seasonal veggies? Toss carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them until tender. The caramelized edges will add a lovely sweetness!
- Steamed Broccoli: Steamed broccoli is not only nutritious but also super easy to prepare. Just a sprinkle of lemon juice on top will brighten it up and make it the perfect sidekick to your casserole.
- Mashed Potatoes: If you want to take comfort food to the next level, creamy mashed potatoes are a great choice. They soak up the savory flavors of the casserole beautifully!
- Cranberry Sauce: A dollop of cranberry sauce on the side adds a delightful tangy sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the savory elements of the dish. It’s a classic combo!
- Garlic Bread: Who can resist warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce from your casserole, plus it brings that cozy Italian vibe to the meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a nice crunch and a burst of flavor that balances out the richness of the casserole. It’s a fantastic way to add some color and freshness!
These sides not only enhance the meal but also create a lovely spread that everyone will enjoy. Mix and match based on what you have on hand or what your family loves most. Enjoy your comforting dinner, and happy feasting!
Imprimer
Savory Chicken and Dressing Casserole: 7 Comforting Delights
- Temps Total: 50 minutes
- Rendement: 6 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Faible En Gras
Description
A comforting savory chicken and dressing casserole perfect for family meals.
Ingrédients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 package (12 oz) stuffing mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, stuffing mix, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, celery, onion, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Stir until well mixed.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Notes
- For added flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- You can substitute turkey for chicken.
- Add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Temps De Préparation: 15 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 35 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Dish
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 10g
- Graisses Saturées: 2g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 3g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 40g
- La fibre: 2g
- La protéine: 25g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 70mg
Mots-clés: savory chicken and dressing casserole
