Chicken and Dressing Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Classic

A creamy, savory bake that turns simple pantry staples into a soul-satisfying meal.

By Srija Burman

Aug 29, 2025

A creamy, savory bake that turns simple pantry staples into a soul-satisfying meal.

Image: HearthJunction Design Team

Chicken and Dressing Casserole: A Southern Comfort Food Favorite

There are few dishes that say comfort food quite like a hearty Chicken and Dressing Casserole. Rooted in Southern tradition, this dish combines tender chicken with a flavorful stuffing, creamy soup, and savory herbs, then bakes everything to perfection. It’s beloved for its simple preparation, crowd-pleasing taste, and ability to evoke nostalgic memories of family gatherings and holiday meals.

About Chicken and Dressing Casserole
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Tips for Perfect Casserole
Variations & Substitutions
Serving Suggestions
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions

About Chicken and Dressing Casserole

Chicken and dressing casserole blends chicken, a creamy soup mixture, stuffing, and flavorful broth into a rich and satisfying baked meal. Traditionally, it’s served at Thanksgiving or holiday gatherings, but its simplicity makes it a year-round family favorite. The combination of moist, tender chicken and savory dressing, baked until golden brown, creates a dish that comforts and satisfies on any occasion.

Ingredients

Below are the essential components for this time-tested classic. Quantities can easily be scaled up or down based on the size of your gathering.

Cooked chicken (shredded or chopped; rotisserie chicken works well for convenience)
Bread stuffing mix (dry; seasoned for extra flavor)
Canned condensed cream of chicken soup (for creamy texture and rich taste)
Chicken broth (adds moisture and deepens flavor)
Butter (melted; used for both flavor and browning)
Onion and celery (diced, optional; for aromatic depth)
Sage or poultry seasoning (traditional herb choice)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Ingredient Substitutions

Cream of mushroom or celery soup can be used in place of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.
Turkey, ham, or leftover roasted meats can be swapped in for the chicken.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for a casserole that’s both comforting and crowd-pleasing every time:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare stuffing mix according to package instructions, substituting chicken broth for some or all of the water for additional flavor.
Mix the soup base: In a large bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup with a portion of the chicken broth. Stir until smooth.
Layer chicken: Spread the cooked, shredded chicken in an even layer in a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add aromatics (optional): Sprinkle sautéed onion and celery on top of the chicken for added depth.
Pour soup mixture evenly over the chicken layer.
Top with stuffing: Spread the prepared stuffing mix over the soup and chicken, pressing down gently.
Drizzle with melted butter for a golden finish.
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 35–45 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly and the topping is crisp and lightly browned.
Rest and serve: Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes before serving to help it set and slice neatly.

Tips for Perfect Chicken and Dressing Casserole

Use rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken to save time and add flavor.
Sauté aromatics (onion, celery, or even mushrooms) for richer dimension and texture.
Adjust liquid according to stuffing brand: Some stuffing mixes absorb more liquid than others, so add broth gradually if needed.
Add fresh herbs for brightness; parsley, thyme, or rosemary are all excellent additions.
For a crispier topping, finish under the broiler for 2–3 minutes after baking (watch closely to prevent burning).

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is endlessly adaptable to suit your tastes, dietary preferences, or what’s in your pantry.

Vegetable Add-ins: Mix in frozen mixed vegetables, peas and carrots, or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan between the layers or on top for a creamy, cheesy twist.
Herb or Cornbread Stuffing: Try a cornbread-based stuffing mix for a Southern flair, or use an herb-seasoned blend for a deeper flavor profile.
Cream Soup Swap: Substitute cream of mushroom or celery soup for a vegetarian-friendly base (with plant-based chicken or tofu).
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne, hot sauce, or diced green chilies for some heat.

Comparison Table: Common Variations

Variation	Main Difference	Flavor Profile
Classic	Uses chicken, cream of chicken soup, seasoned bread stuffing	Traditional, savory
Cornbread Style	Cornbread stuffing replaces bread stuffing	Sweet, Southern
Vegetable Packed	Added peas, carrots, or broccoli	Colorful, nutrient-rich
Cheesy	Layered or topped with shredded cheese	Creamy, rich
Spicy	Includes hot sauce or chilies	Bold, tangy

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a main course on its own, but it’s even better paired with simple sides that let its flavors shine.

Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
Steamed green beans, broccoli, or asparagus
Cranberry sauce (for a holiday touch)
Buttered corn or sautéed carrots
Warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Make ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes and add 10–15 minutes to bake time.
Leftovers: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked or baked casserole (well-wrapped) for up to 2 months. If frozen unbaked, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Nutrition Information

Nutritional content will vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used, but a typical serving (about 1/8 casserole) may include:

Calories: Approximately 350–400
Protein: 20–25 grams
Carbohydrates: 30–35 grams
Fat: 15–20 grams
Sodium: 800–1000 mg

To reduce sodium, use low-sodium broth and soups; for a lighter dish, substitute some or all of the butter and soup with low-fat or plant-based alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

A: Yes! Leftover turkey is a perfect substitute for chicken. This makes the recipe especially popular after Thanksgiving.

Q: Is there a way to make this casserole gluten-free?

A: Absolutely. Use a gluten-free stuffing mix and ensure that your cream of chicken soup is gluten-free as well.

Q: Can I assemble this casserole in advance?

A: Yes, you can prepare the entire casserole up to a day ahead and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a fantastic choice for busy holidays or weeknight meal prep.

Q: How do I prevent the casserole from getting soggy?

A: Be mindful of the amount of broth added—add gradually and watch for desired consistency. If your stuffing mix seems especially dry, add a bit more liquid; if it seems too wet, bake a little longer uncovered to crisp the top.

Q: What sides go well with chicken and dressing casserole?

A: Simple vegetables, green salad, and classic holiday extras like cranberry sauce are all excellent accompaniments.

Q: Can I freeze individual servings?

A: Yes, freeze individual portions in airtight containers for easy reheating in the microwave or oven. Perfect for meal planning!

Conclusion

Whether served for a holiday, potluck, or busy weeknight, Chicken and Dressing Casserole stands the test of time as a family-favorite comfort food. Customizable and satisfying, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your repertoire and sharing with those you love. Enjoy the cozy, classic flavors and make it your own!

References

Author

Srija Burman

Srija holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Calcutta and a PG diploma in Editing and Publishing from Jadavpur University. Her interest in writing and editing ranges across niches, including academics, sports, and human psychology.

Read full bio of Srija Burman