CHICKEN AND DRESSING CASSEROLE is my go-to when I need a cozy, no-fuss dinner that tastes like a warm hug. If you’ve ever stared into your fridge wishing dinner would cook itself, this one comes close. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with comforting flavors that make even picky eaters happy. I’ve made it for busy weeknights, potlucks, and holidays, and it never lets me down. You don’t need fancy skills or tricky steps, just a few pantry staples and a baking dish. Let’s make your kitchen smell amazing. 
Key Ingredients
What You Will Need
Here’s what I reach for every single time. The ingredient list is simple, but the result is rich and satisfying. You can make small swaps depending on what you have, but the basics stay the same.
The Story Behind This Recipe
From my kitchen to yours—CHICKEN AND DRESSING CASSEROLE mixes a little nostalgia with a buttery finish. Tested, tasted, and ready for your table. CHICKEN AND DRESSING CASSEROLE is my go-to when I need a cozy, no-fuss dinner that tastes like a warm hug. If you’ve ever stared into your…
- Cooked chicken: Shredded or cubed. Rotisserie chicken makes life easy and adds great flavor.
- Stuffing mix or cornbread dressing: Dry boxed stuffing works beautifully, and cornbread brings a touch of sweetness.
- Cream of chicken soup: Gives that creamy base. You can use cream of celery or mushroom if you like.
- Chicken broth: Helps the dressing soften without getting soggy.
- Onion and celery: Classic aromatics that bring the casserole to life.
- Butter: For sautéing and a touch of richness.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Optional, but I love the tang and creaminess.
- Poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper: Keep it simple; a little goes a long way.
If you love sneaking in veggies, chopped broccoli or peas are great here. And if you’re dreaming up your next casserole night, check out this reader favorite chicken and broccoli cheesy casserole for a green-packed twist.
Pro tip: Use about 4 cups of cooked chicken for a hearty, protein-forward bake.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
This is the kind of dinner you can assemble while chatting with family or listening to a podcast. It’s straightforward and forgiving, perfect for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and butter a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté chopped onion and celery until soft and fragrant. You want them tender, not crunchy.
- In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken with cream of chicken soup and a spoonful of sour cream if using. Add a splash of broth to loosen it up. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of poultry seasoning.
- In a separate bowl, combine stuffing mix with enough warm broth to moisten. You want it damp but not soaked.
- Spread half the dressing in the bottom of the baking dish. Add the chicken mixture on top, then finish with the remaining dressing.
- Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving so everything sets nicely.
Make-Ahead Option
Assemble the casserole earlier in the day, cover, and refrigerate. Add a few extra minutes of bake time if it goes into the oven cold. This trick saves my sanity on busy nights. If you like planning ahead with low-effort meals, you’ll probably love this no-stress chicken cordon bleu casserole too.
I made this for a Sunday dinner and my family asked for seconds. My teen called it the best cozy dinner we’ve had all month. I’m adding it to our weekly rotation.
Key tips to remember: Do not overmix the dressing, and let your casserole sit before slicing. That rest time is magic.
Nutritional Information
Every kitchen and brand is a little different, but here’s a general snapshot for a hearty serving of this CHICKEN AND DRESSING CASSEROLE:
Calories: roughly 420 to 520 per serving, depending on add-ins and portion size. Protein lands around 25 to 30 grams with plenty of chicken, carbs from the dressing, and fats from butter and soup. If you’re watching sodium, choose a low-sodium broth and soup, and taste before adding extra salt.
You can lighten things up by using a reduced-fat cream soup, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and adding extra veggies to bulk up each bite without extra calories. Pair it with a bright side like a simple salad or roasted green beans. If you want a cozy side that still feels special, this creamy and cheesy mashed potato casserole hits all the comfort notes.
Food safety matters. Since your chicken is already cooked, you’re mostly heating through. You still want the casserole bubbling and hot in the center. Leftovers keep well in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Popular Variations of Casserole
Family-Friendly Twists
There are so many ways to make this dish your own. Here are my most-loved variations that still keep the spirit of the original:
Cornbread style: Use cornbread dressing for a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory chicken and broth. Add a handful of sautéed mushrooms if you like earthy flavors.
Veggie boost: Stir steamed broccoli or chopped spinach into the chicken layer. If broccoli is your love language, you might also enjoy this easy weeknight chicken broccoli casserole that keeps things fresh but comforting.
Cheesy top: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack on the last 10 minutes of baking. It makes the top extra irresistible.
Herb-forward: Add fresh parsley and thyme to the dressing. A squeeze of lemon over the finished casserole brightens the whole dish.
Spice it up: Mix a little cayenne or hot sauce into the chicken layer. Serve with a cool dollop of sour cream on the side.
Want to go in a totally different direction for your next dinner? Try this cozy, crowd-pleasing chicken burrito casserole for Tex-Mex vibes without a hassle.
Tips for Perfecting Your Casserole
Storage and Reheating
Small tweaks make a big difference. These are the little habits that give you tender chicken, flavorful dressing, and crispy edges every time.
Balance the moisture: The dressing should be damp enough to fluff but not soggy. Start with less broth, then add more as needed.
Season thoughtfully: Soup and stuffing mixes are often salty. Taste the chicken mixture before adding salt. A little black pepper and poultry seasoning can lift everything without going overboard.
Texture matters: If you love crunch, leave a few dry bits of stuffing on top so they crisp while baking. For a softer top, add a drizzle of broth over the final layer.
Rest before serving: Let the casserole rest at least 10 minutes after baking. It sets up and slices neatly instead of falling apart.
Reheat gently: Warm leftovers in a 325°F oven, covered with foil, until hot. Add a spoonful of broth if it looks dry. You can microwave in short bursts with a splash of broth too.
If you’re into budget-friendly comfort food, bookmark this satisfying potato and chicken casserole for another easy dinner that feeds everyone without fuss.
Freezing: Assemble and freeze unbaked, wrapped tightly for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake. It’s a life saver on busy weeks.
Common Questions
Can I use canned chicken?
Yes, it works in a pinch. Drain well and add a bit of extra seasoning for depth.
Is there a way to make it gluten free?
Use a gluten free stuffing mix and a gluten free cream soup. Check labels on broth too.
How do I keep the casserole from drying out?
Moisten the stuffing just enough and cover loosely with foil if your oven runs hot. Add a splash of broth during reheating.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?
Try cream of mushroom or celery. You can also make a quick homemade white sauce with broth for a cleaner option.
Can I add cheese?
Absolutely. Sprinkle on shredded cheddar during the last 10 minutes for a melty finish.
A cozy wrap-up you can taste
There’s a reason I lean on CHICKEN AND DRESSING CASSEROLE when I want a reliable, soul-warming dinner. It’s easy to assemble, flexible with swaps, and always feels like home. If you want to compare styles or dig deeper into methods, I like the classic approach in this Chicken and Dressing Casserole Recipe and the comforting tips shared in Chicken and Dressing Casserole – South Your Mouth. I hope you try it soon and make it your own with the little touches your family loves. When dinner smells this good, everyone drifts into the kitchen, and that’s my favorite kind of evening.
Chicken and Dressing Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter a 9×13 baking dish.
- In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté chopped onion and celery until soft and fragrant.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken with the cream of chicken soup and sour cream (if using). Add a splash of broth to loosen the mixture and season with salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning.
- In a separate bowl, combine the stuffing mix with enough warm broth to moisten it, aiming for dampness without sogginess.
- Spread half of the dressing in the bottom of the baking dish. Add the chicken mixture on top, then finish with the remaining dressing.
- Bake uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
