When you’re looking for a simple, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, Chicken and Dressing Casserole is a perfect choice. This recipe brings together tender chicken, savory stuffing, and creamy soup in a baked dish that’s as comforting as a traditional holiday meal. It’s an easy go-to that saves you time and effort while still delivering big on flavor and satisfaction.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dressing Casserole
There’s a reason this casserole is a favorite for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. It’s a one-dish meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, but in reality, it comes together quickly and easily. You get juicy chicken mixed with a flavorful stuffing base, all brought together with a creamy blend of soups and broth. This casserole is versatile, cozy, and full of classic flavors that make everyone at the table smile. Plus, it’s easy to pair with a fresh salad or your favorite vegetable to round out the meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken and Dressing Casserole
To make this satisfying casserole, gather these simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry and fridge:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 package (6 ounces) chicken-flavored stuffing mix (like Stove Top)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup (such as Campbell’s Healthy Request)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of celery soup (a low-fat option like Campbell’s 98% Fat Free works well)
- 1 cup chicken broth or stock
- 1 cup milk
How to Make Chicken and Dressing Casserole
Follow these steps to create a delicious casserole with minimal fuss:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (about 175 degrees Celsius).
Lightly butter a 2-quart casserole dish to prevent sticking and add a bit of flavor.
Spread your cooked chicken evenly in the bottom of the casserole dish. This forms the hearty base of your meal.
Sprinkle the dry stuffing mix evenly over the chicken. This adds texture and classic savory notes that blend perfectly with the chicken.
In a medium bowl, stir together the cream of chicken soup and cream of celery soup until smooth. These soups create the creamy sauce that holds everything together.
Add the chicken broth and milk to the soup mixture, then stir well to combine. This thins out the soups just enough to soak into the stuffing and chicken without making the dish watery.
Pour this soup mixture evenly over the stuffing layer in the casserole dish, making sure it’s well distributed.
Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the stuffing to soften without drying out.
Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until you see bubbling in the center. This signals that the casserole is hot and ready.
Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving to let it set slightly, making it easier to portion out.
This method keeps your casserole moist and flavorful, with a golden, lightly crisp top.
How to Serve Your Chicken and Dressing Casserole
You can serve this casserole straight from the baking dish for a casual family meal or plate it nicely for guests. It pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh salads to balance the richness, such as a simple green salad with vinaigrette or a classic Caesar. Steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or carrots also make great side dishes that add color and nutrients to your plate. For a heartier meal, mashed potatoes or sweet potato fries can be served alongside to keep things comforting.
For best results, serve your casserole warm, and consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme on top for a burst of color and subtle freshness.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Chicken and Dressing Casserole
To make sure your casserole turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Use cooked chicken that is well-seasoned or roasted for more depth of flavor. Leftover rotisserie chicken works great.
- Avoid overmixing the soup mixture into the stuffing — just pour it over gently to keep the stuffing’s texture intact.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, you can add a handful of shredded cheese or crushed crackers on top before the final bake.
- Make sure to cover the casserole during the initial bake to keep moisture in, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to brown the top nicely.
- Letting the casserole rest after baking helps it firm up and makes serving easier without it falling apart.
These small details can elevate your casserole from good to great.
How to Store Leftover Chicken and Dressing Casserole
If you have leftovers, you can store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If using the oven, cover with foil to prevent drying out and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. To freeze, cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.
Proper storage ensures your casserole stays tasty and safe to eat later.
Variations to Try With Your Chicken and Dressing Casserole
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these simple changes:
- Swap out the cream of celery soup for cream of mushroom or cream of broccoli for different flavor profiles.
- Use turkey instead of chicken for a slightly richer taste, especially if you have leftover roast turkey.
- Add cooked vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn into the casserole for extra nutrition and color.
- Stir in some shredded cheese for a gooey, melty version that kids will love.
- Top with crispy fried onions or toasted breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy layer.
Experimenting with these variations can keep this classic casserole fresh and exciting every time you make it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Dressing Casserole
What type of chicken works best in this casserole?
You can use any cooked chicken you like — shredded rotisserie chicken, leftover baked chicken, or even poached chicken. Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it, then bake it when you’re ready. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the bake time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?
Try using low-fat or fat-free soups and milk, and add extra vegetables to boost fiber and nutrients. Using homemade broth can reduce sodium too.
Can I freeze Chicken and Dressing Casserole?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What can I serve with Chicken and Dressing Casserole?
A fresh salad and steamed vegetables complement this dish well. Mashed potatoes or dinner rolls also work great for a full meal.
Chicken and Dressing Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 package chicken-flavored stuffing mix (6 ounces)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 ounces)
- 1 can cream of celery soup (10.5 ounces)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly butter a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Spread cooked chicken evenly in the bottom of the casserole dish.
- Sprinkle dry stuffing mix evenly over the chicken.
- In a medium bowl, stir together cream of chicken soup and cream of celery soup until smooth.
- Add chicken broth and milk to the soup mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the soup mixture evenly over the stuffing layer.
- Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake uncovered for another 10 minutes, or until bubbling.
- Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
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