Southern Chicken and Dressing: A Soulful Southern Classic

Name: Southern Chicken and Dressing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for greasing pan); 1 cup yellow onion, chopped; 1 cup celery, chopped; ½ cup green bell pepper, seeded and chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 recipe for Classic Southern Buttermilk Cornbread, crumbled (1-2 days old); 5 slices stale white sandwich bread, cubed; 1 tablespoon ground sage; 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ – ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup; 3 – 4 cups low sodium chicken broth; 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (from 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs or 2 chicken breasts); 2 large eggs, beaten

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Southern Chicken and Dressing is a comforting dish that takes center stage at many Southern holiday tables, especially during Thanksgiving. This rich and savory casserole made with homemade buttermilk cornbread, tender shredded chicken, savory broth, and a variety of vegetables has all the elements of a classic soul food dish. If you’re looking for the perfect side dish that combines tradition and flavor, this Southern Chicken and Dressing recipe is just what you need.

What Makes Southern Chicken and Dressing a Must-Try?

This Southern Chicken and Dressing recipe is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to festive holidays. Its savory combination of cornbread and tender chicken creates a rich texture, while the seasoning mix enhances the flavor profile, making it irresistible. Plus, this dish is not only flavorful but also super versatile, allowing for various substitutions to cater to different tastes.

Ingredients for Southern Chicken and Dressing

To make Southern Chicken and Dressing, you’ll need a variety of fresh ingredients that bring this dish to life. Here are the key components:

Buttermilk Cornbread: Adds a rich, slightly tangy flavor and crumbles well into the dressing for that perfect texture.

Stale White Sandwich Bread: Drying out the bread ensures it soaks up the broth, providing structure and a soft texture without being too soggy.
Shredded Chicken: Adds protein and a savory depth, typically from boneless skinless chicken thighs or a rotisserie chicken.
Onion, Celery, and Bell Pepper: These vegetables bring flavor and moisture to the dressing, creating a savory base that complements the chicken.

Cream of Chicken Soup: Provides extra moisture and creaminess to bind the dressing together.
Chicken Broth: The key liquid ingredient, adding depth to the flavor and ensuring the dressing has the right consistency.
Spices and Herbs (Sage, Poultry Seasoning, Garlic Powder, etc.): The essential seasonings that bring out the soul food flavors.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Southern Chicken and Dressing

If you’re looking to cater to specific dietary needs or simply want to try a twist on this traditional recipe, here are some alternatives:

• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and replace chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh for a meatless option.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the bread and cornbread for gluten-free versions. You can also opt for gluten-free bread crumbs.
• For Extra Flavor: Add some crispy bacon or smoked sausage to enhance the smoky flavor of the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Southern Chicken and Dressing

Making Southern Chicken and Dressing involves layering rich flavors and textures. Follow these steps to create this classic dish:

Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by melting butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute before removing the pan from the heat to cool.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cubed stale bread, cooked vegetables, shredded chicken, and seasonings. Add the cream of chicken soup and 2 cups of chicken broth, then stir everything together until well mixed.
Adjust Consistency: Gradually add more chicken broth until the mixture reaches the desired consistency—thick and moist but not overly soupy, resembling thick oatmeal. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning to your liking before adding the beaten eggs to bind the mixture together.

Bake the Dressing: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish. Pour the dressing mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is firm. Allow the dressing to cool for about 15 minutes before serving.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Southern Chicken and Dressing

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Southern Chicken and Dressing turns out perfectly:

• Don’t Overdo the Broth: Adding too much broth can result in a mushy texture. Start with less and add more gradually until you reach the perfect consistency.
• Bake Until Golden: Be sure to bake the dressing until the edges are golden and the center is set. This ensures a firm texture and that delicious golden top.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dressing the night before and store it in the fridge. Just allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking or increase the baking time to ensure it cooks thoroughly.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Southern Chicken and Dressing

Southern Chicken and Dressing is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

• Southern Collard Greens: The bitterness of collard greens balances the richness of the dressing.
• Sweet Potato Casserole: The sweetness of this casserole complements the savory chicken and dressing.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A creamy mashed potato dish is always a hit, pairing wonderfully with the savory flavors of the dressing.

Additionally, feel free to make variations based on your preferences. You can easily add smoked sausage, bacon, or even mushrooms to give the dish a different flavor profile.

Make It Your Own

The beauty of Southern Chicken and Dressing is its adaptability. You can swap ingredients to suit your personal tastes or dietary needs. The addition of different meats like turkey or shrimp, or the choice of vegetable mix, can give this classic recipe a unique twist that suits any gathering or occasion.

This Southern Chicken and Dressing recipe is sure to be a hit at your next family gathering or holiday feast. Whether you’re serving it alongside Southern favorites or as the star of the meal, this dish is bound to impress everyone at the table with its comforting flavors and perfect texture.

Conclusion

Southern Chicken and Dressing is the epitome of comfort food—rich, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. This dish brings together the best of Southern flavors with a satisfying blend of cornbread, tender chicken, and savory vegetables. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving or a family dinner, it will quickly become a favorite in your home. The versatility and richness of this dish make it the perfect side that pairs well with many Southern staples. Try it today and experience the taste of tradition in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make Southern Chicken and Dressing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dressing the day before. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes or bake it for a little longer if it’s chilled.

2. What’s the best bread to use for Southern Chicken and Dressing?

For the best texture, use stale white sandwich bread or cornbread. The bread should be dry enough to soak up the broth without becoming too soggy. If your bread is too fresh, dry it out in the oven at 225°F for about 45 minutes.

3. How do I prevent my dressing from being too dry or too wet?

The key is to add chicken broth gradually until the mixture reaches the consistency of thick oatmeal. If it feels too dry, add more broth until it’s moist but not soupy. If it becomes too wet, simply bake it a little longer to firm up the texture.

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