Chicken dressing recipe is a beloved dish in Southern cuisine, often gracing the table during family gatherings, Thanksgiving, and other festive occasions. This rich, flavorful, and hearty side dish combines tender chicken with cornbread and savory seasonings, resulting in a comforting meal that is as nostalgic as it is delicious.
In this blog, we’ll explore the origins of chicken dressing, provide a step-by-step guide to making it from scratch, and share tips for achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will help you create a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
The History of chicken dressing recipe
Chicken dressing, often paired with turkey during the holidays, is a dish rooted in Southern tradition. The term « dressing » is used in the South, while « stuffing » is more common in other regions of the United States. The primary difference is that dressing is typically baked in a casserole dish rather than stuffed inside poultry.
Historically, chicken dressing was a practical way to use leftover cornbread and chicken, staples in many Southern households. Over time, the dish evolved, incorporating additional ingredients like onions, celery, and herbs to enhance its flavor.
Ingredients for chicken dressing recipe
To make a classic chicken dressing, you’ll need the following ingredients:
The Chicken
- 1 whole chicken (about 3–4 lbs)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 2 celery stalks, halved
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
For the Cornbread
- 2 cups cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups buttermilk
- ¼ cup melted butter
The Dressing
- 6 cups crumbled cornbread
- 4 cups shredded chicken (from the cooked whole chicken)
- 1 cup diced onion
- 1 cup diced celery
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tbsp dried sage
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions of the chicken dressing recipe
1: Cook the Chicken
- Place the whole chicken in a large stockpot and cover with 6 cups of water or chicken broth.
- Add the quartered onion, celery stalks, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and let it cool. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Strain and reserve the broth for later use.
2: Prepare the Cornbread
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a cast-iron skillet or baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, and melted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared skillet and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cornbread cool, then crumble it into a large bowl.
3: Assemble the Dressing
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet, sauté the diced onion and celery in a bit of butter or olive oil until softened.
- Add the sautéed vegetables, shredded chicken, and crumbled cornbread to the bowl. Mix well.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, chicken broth, sage, and poultry seasoning. Pour this mixture over the cornbread mixture, stirring until well combined. Add additional broth if the mixture seems too dry.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4: Bake the Dressing
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is set in the center.
- Let the dressing cool slightly before serving.
Tips for the Best chicken dressing recipe
- Use Homemade Broth: Cooking the chicken yourself not only provides tender meat but also results in a flavorful broth to use in the dressing.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the sage and poultry seasoning, as they are key to achieving that classic Southern flavor.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the dressing to prevent it from drying out. The center should be moist but not soggy.
- Make It Ahead: You can prepare the dressing up to the baking step and refrigerate it overnight. Bake it fresh before serving.
Variations of the chicken dressing recipe
Gluten-Free Option
Swap the all-purpose flour in the cornbread with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that the broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
Vegetarian Option
Replace the chicken with mushrooms or roasted vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Add-Ins
- Cranberries: Add dried cranberries for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts for a bit of crunch.
- Cheese: Mix in shredded cheddar or Parmesan for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions of the chicken dressing recipe
Chicken dressing pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes:
- Turkey or Ham: A classic Thanksgiving pairing.
- Green Beans: Serve with sautéed or roasted green beans for a complete meal.
- Gravy: Drizzle with rich turkey or chicken gravy for added flavor.
Storing and Reheating of the chicken dressing recipe
Storing
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze the dressing in portions for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, adding a bit of broth if needed to prevent dryness.
- Alternatively, microwave individual portions on medium power.
Conclusion of the chicken dressing recipe
This chicken dressing recipe is the epitome of Southern comfort food—warm, savory, and perfect for family gatherings. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s sure to become a favorite on your holiday table or any time you crave a hearty side dish.
So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the magic of chicken dressing fill your kitchen with its delightful aroma.
