Chicken Cornbread Dressing – A Cozy Southern Classic

There’s nothing more comforting than a warm plate of Chicken Cornbread Dressing, filled with tender chicken, homemade cornbread, and savory herbs. This classic Southern dish brings rich flavor and homestyle goodness to your table — perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or cozy fall evenings. With its golden crust and hearty texture, this recipe is a delicious twist on traditional dressing that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Southern Comfort: Combines the flavor of old-fashioned dressing with juicy chicken for a hearty meal.
• Moist and Flavorful: The cornbread absorbs savory broth and seasonings perfectly.
• Family Favorite: Loved by all ages and easy to make in big batches.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and bake when ready to serve.

Ingredients

Cornbread Base

• 4 cups crumbled cornbread (preferably day-old)
• 4 cups cubed bread (white or wheat)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan.
2. Cook the Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter. Add onion and celery, sautéing over medium heat until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Combine the Breads: In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled cornbread and cubed bread. Stir in the cooked vegetables.
4. Add the Chicken and Seasonings: Mix in shredded chicken, salt, sage, poultry seasoning, black pepper, and garlic powder.
5. Moisten with Broth and Eggs: Pour in the chicken broth and beaten eggs. Gently mix until well moistened but not soggy — the mixture should hold together.
6. Bake the Dressing: Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until golden brown on top and set in the center.
7. Cool Slightly and Serve: Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving. The dressing will firm up slightly as it cools.

Tips & Variations

• Make it Creamy: Stir in a can of cream of chicken soup for extra richness.
• Add More Texture: Include chopped pecans, sautéed mushrooms, or diced bell peppers.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.
• Cornbread Shortcut: Use store-bought cornbread mix if you don’t have time to bake from scratch.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare and refrigerate the mixture up to one day before baking.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil or freezer-safe wrap. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, about 20–25 minutes.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with roasted turkey, chicken gravy, or cranberry sauce for a full Southern meal.
• Pair it with green beans, mashed potatoes, or glazed carrots for balance.
• Add a light garden salad or sweet potato casserole for a festive holiday spread.
• Perfect with a tall glass of sweet tea or sparkling apple cider.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Chicken Cornbread Dressing ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the entire dish a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate the unbaked mixture, then bake it fresh before serving for the best texture.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time — just shred it before adding it to the mixture.

How do I keep the dressing from being too dry?

Ensure the mixture is well moistened before baking. Add more broth as needed until the consistency is similar to thick oatmeal.

What’s the difference between dressing and stuffing?

Stuffing is cooked inside poultry, while dressing is baked separately in a dish. This recipe is a baked dressing, giving it a crisp golden crust and tender inside.

Ready to Make It?

There’s nothing quite like homemade Chicken Cornbread Dressing to bring warmth and nostalgia to your table. Whether for Sunday supper or your holiday feast, it’s a hearty dish that’s always welcome. Save this recipe, bake it fresh, and let the aroma of buttery cornbread and savory herbs fill your kitchen!

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• Herbed Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken – Elegant, flavorful, and perfect for dinner parties.

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