Best Chicken and Dressing Casserole Recipe (Easy Southern Comfort Dish)

This chicken and dressing casserole is one of the most dependable, comforting dishes in classic American home cooking. Simple to prepare, rich in flavor, and flexible enough to fit almost any pantry, it has remained one of the most requested Southern casseroles for decades. The reason for its popularity is straightforward: it combines the warmth of traditional chicken and cornbread dressing with the convenience of modern kitchen shortcuts, producing a dish that feels homemade without requiring hours of work.

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In recent years, this recipe has also gained strong visibility online thanks to high user interest in terms such as “chicken and dressing casserole,” “chicken casserole with Stove Top dressing,” “crockpot chicken and dressing casserole,” and “cornbread dressing casserole.” This demand reflects how versatile and approachable this dish is for both beginners and experienced cooks. It fits well into weekly meal plans, potlucks, and even holiday menus, offering a flavor profile that works all year long.

This expanded version of the recipe is designed to give you detailed instructions, ingredient alternatives, variations, and techniques that help you achieve the best possible results no matter which method you prefer. Whether you enjoy the structure of a baked casserole or the soft, slow-cooked texture of a crockpot version, this guide covers everything you need.

Ingredients

Chicken Mixture

• 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup chicken broth, plus more if needed
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning (optional but recommended)
• Salt to taste

Dressing Layer Options

You can choose one base or mix them for texture variation:

• 1 box Stove Top chicken stuffing mix
• 3 cups crumbled cornbread dressing
• A combination of both for a richer flavor and firmer structure

Optional Additions

• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten (optional for a firmer, more sliceable casserole)
• ¼ cup melted butter for added richness

Choosing the right combination of ingredients allows you to customize the texture and density of your casserole. Using only Stove Top stuffing will give you a softer, more consistent top layer, while cornbread dressing provides a more rustic, traditional feel with deeper flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Preparing the dish beforehand prevents sticking and ensures even browning along the sides.

Step 2: Combine the Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, diced onion, chicken broth, pepper, poultry seasoning, and salt. Stir until everything is well blended. If the mixture appears too thick, add an additional splash of broth.
The consistency should be creamy but not watery.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing Layer

If you are using Stove Top stuffing, prepare it according to the package instructions.
If using cornbread dressing, moisten it lightly with broth until it reaches a soft, crumbly texture that holds together when pressed lightly.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Spread half of your dressing mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
Next, pour the chicken mixture on top, spreading it into an even layer.
Finish by adding the remaining dressing across the top. Do not pack it too tightly; leaving the top slightly loose helps the casserole bake with a nice texture.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and the edges are bubbling.
Allow the casserole to rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. Resting helps the layers firm up and improves slicing and serving.

Slow Cooker Variation

If you prefer a softer casserole or need a hands-off method, the crockpot version is ideal. This method has become highly popular, especially among busy families.

1. Grease the inside of your slow cooker.
2. Add half of your prepared dressing to the bottom.
3. Pour in the entire chicken mixture.
4. Add the remaining dressing on top.
5. Cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 to 2.5 hours.

The slow cooker version will not brown on the top, but it delivers a moist, tender, stuffing-like texture that many people prefer. You can transfer it to a baking dish and broil the top for a few minutes if you prefer some browning.

Detailed Tips for Best Results

Use Rotisserie Chicken for Depth of Flavor

Rotisserie chicken works exceptionally well because it adds seasoning and moisture that shredded boiled chicken sometimes lacks. It also saves prep time.

Adjust Moisture Levels Based on Your Dressing Choice

Cornbread dressing absorbs more liquid than Stove Top stuffing. If using cornbread only, add an extra ¼ to ½ cup of broth to keep the casserole from becoming dry.

Enhance the Flavor with Aromatics

Adding celery, sautéed onions, or even a small amount of garlic can deepen the flavor. For a richer casserole, add a few tablespoons of melted butter to the dressing mixture.

Personalize Texture with Eggs

Two beaten eggs mixed into the dressing layer will help the casserole set firmly, making it easier to slice cleanly. This technique is frequently used in more traditional Southern dressing recipes.

Broil for a Crisp Top

If you enjoy a slight crunch, place the casserole under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes after baking.
Keep a close eye on it, as broiling can quickly burn the top.

Variations to Try

Cornbread Dressing Casserole

Using only cornbread produces a deep, hearty Southern flavor. It’s especially popular during Thanksgiving and Christmas but works well any time of year.

Chicken and Dressing Casserole with Vegetables

Adding mixed vegetables, such as peas and carrots, turns this into a complete one-dish meal.
This variation is ideal for busy families and meal prep routines.

Creamy Style Casserole

For a richer, smoother texture, stir ½ cup sour cream into the chicken mixture.
This option is especially popular in Northern and Midwestern regions.

Stove Top Chicken and Dressing Casserole

This version is fast, straightforward, and appeals to cooks who prefer consistent texture.
Stove Top stuffing also seasons the casserole well, reducing the need for additional spices.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken and dressing casserole pairs well with a variety of simple sides. Some popular choices include:

• Green beans
• Steamed broccoli
• Roasted carrots
• Mashed potatoes
• Cranberry sauce
• Simple tossed salad

These sides balance the richness of the dish and create a complete meal.

Storage, Freezing, and Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
The flavors often deepen after a day, making reheated portions even better.

Freezing

To freeze, assemble the casserole without baking it, wrap tightly, and store for up to two months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake according to the instructions.

Reheating

Reheat at 300°F for 15 to 20 minutes in the oven.
Microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, though the texture will be softer.

Recommended Baking Tool

A sturdy, high-quality casserole dish delivers even heat distribution and helps the dressing brown properly.
Here is a reliable baking dish option available on Amazon:
https://amzn.to/4ajOI4H

Related Recipe to Try

If you enjoy classic chicken comfort meals, you may want to try this recipe as well:
https://www.magmakitchen.com/easy-chicken-pot-pie-recipe-with-premade-crust/

Conclusion

This chicken and dressing casserole stands out as one of the most versatile and dependable comfort dishes in American home cooking. Whether you prepare it with cornbread dressing, Stove Top stuffing, or a combination of both, it consistently delivers satisfying flavor and warmth. The recipe adapts easily to different cooking methods, dietary variations, and personal preferences, making it suitable for both busy weeknights and special gatherings.

Thanks to its strong user interest and relevance to high-performing keywords such as chicken and dressing casserole, chicken casserole with Stove Top dressing, cornbread dressing casserole, and crockpot chicken and dressing casserole, it performs well in food blogs focused on U.S. readers. With the step-by-step instructions and expanded guidance provided here, you can confidently prepare a casserole that fits your preferred texture and flavor profile, ensuring excellent results every time.