Chicken and Dressing Casserole

Cozy Chicken and Dressing Casserole with Homemade Gravy: A Heartwarming Meal for Family Dinners

In the world of comfort food, nothing quite matches the warmth and heartiness of a well-made casserole. Among the stars of this category is the Chicken and Dressing Casserole, a dish that combines tender shredded chicken, flavorful cornbread dressing, and a rich, creamy gravy to create a culinary experience that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. Perfect for family gatherings, this casserole is not just a meal but a celebration of togetherness and home cooking. Let’s delve into how you can bring this comforting meal to your table, complete with tips to ensure your casserole is a hit every time.

Ingredients

To begin, gather the following ingredients for the casserole and the homemade gravy:

• For the Casserole:
  • 4 cups shredded chicken
  • 4 cups cornbread or cubed dried bread
  • ⅓ cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 1 can cream of onion soup
  • 1 ½ cups chicken broth (reserve 1 cup for the gravy)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tsp poultry seasoning
  • ½ tsp dried sage
  • Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Gravy:
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Sauté onions and celery until they become soft and translucent, which releases their flavors into the butter.
3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetable mix with the shredded chicken, cornbread, sage, poultry seasoning, cream of onion soup, and chicken broth. Stir the mixture well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
4. Bake: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading evenly. Bake for 45 minutes or until the top is golden and the casserole has set.
5. Make the Gravy: While the casserole bakes, prepare the gravy. Melt butter in a skillet, then whisk in flour until it’s browned slightly. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, seasoning with salt and pepper. Simmer until the mixture thickens. Finally, stir in heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
6. Serve: Pour the creamy gravy over the baked casserole. Garnish with parsley or green onions for a touch of color and freshness.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

• Shredded Chicken: For best results, use chicken that’s been cooked and shredded at home. It’s more flavorful and tender than store-bought versions.
• Cornbread Choice: Opt for homemade or store-bought cornbread that’s a day old as it absorbs the flavors better. If unavailable, cubed dried bread is a great alternative.
• Seasoning: Adjust the poultry seasoning and sage according to your taste. Starting with the recommended measurements, taste the mixture before baking and add more if desired.
• Gravy Consistency: If your gravy seems too thick, you can thin it with a bit more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, allow it to simmer a bit longer or add a touch more flour whisked in water.

Conclusion

The Chicken and Dressing Casserole with Homemade Gravy is more than just a dish; it’s a testament to the comfort and satisfaction that only home-cooked meals can provide. Whether you’re gathering around the table for a family dinner or looking for a dish that brings warmth and comfort, this casserole is sure to become a beloved addition to your recipe collection. Remember, the key to a great casserole lies not just in the ingredients but in the love and care you put into preparing it. Enjoy the process, and your meal will surely reflect the warmth and comfort you seek.