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A Comforting Southern Classic

Few dishes bring warmth and nostalgia to the table quite like a classic chicken and dressing recipe. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a cozy Sunday dinner, this Southern staple has been gracing tables for generations. With its rich, savory flavors and perfect balance of textures, it’s a dish that embodies comfort food at its best.

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate homemade classic chicken and dressing recipe, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through everything—from ingredients to expert tips—to help you create a dish that’s moist, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible. Let’s dive in!

The Best Classic Chicken and Dressing Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Dressing Recipe

Perfect for any occasion – Ideal for holidays, Sunday dinners, or potlucks.
Simple, wholesome ingredients – Uses pantry staples for an easy yet delicious meal.
Make-ahead friendly – Prepares well in advance for stress-free cooking.
Rich, comforting flavors – A blend of cornbread, tender chicken, and aromatic seasonings.

Ingredients for Classic Chicken and Dressing

Essential Ingredients

Below is a table outlining everything you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Cooked chicken	3 cups	Shredded or diced
Cornbread	4 cups	Crumbled, homemade or store-bought
Chicken broth	3-4 cups	Adjust for desired moisture
Celery	1 cup	Finely chopped
Onion	1 cup	Finely chopped
Butter	½ cup	Melted
Eggs	2	Beaten
Poultry seasoning	1 tsp	Adjust to taste
Sage	1 tsp	Optional, for deeper flavor
Salt & pepper	To taste	Adjust based on broth seasoning

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Make Chicken and Dressing

Step 1 – Prepare the Cornbread

If making homemade cornbread, bake and let it cool completely.
Crumble into fine pieces and set aside.

Step 2 – Cook the Chicken

Boil or roast chicken until fully cooked.
Let it cool, then shred or dice into small pieces.

Step 3 – Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, melt butter and sauté onions and celery until soft and fragrant.

Step 4 – Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine cornbread, chicken, sautéed vegetables, eggs, and seasonings.
Gradually add chicken broth, stirring until mixture reaches a moist but not soggy consistency.

Step 5 – Bake to Perfection

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Tips for the Best Homemade Chicken and Dressing

Use homemade cornbread for a richer, more authentic flavor.
Adjust broth carefully to get the perfect moist consistency.
Incorporate cooked sausage or giblets for added depth of flavor.
Let dressing rest for 10 minutes before serving to enhance taste and texture.

Variations of Chicken and Dressing Recipe

Southern-Style Chicken and Dressing

Includes more sage and sometimes chopped boiled eggs for added texture.

Crockpot Chicken and Dressing

Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours for a hands-off approach.

Gluten-Free Chicken and Dressing

Use gluten-free cornbread and broth to accommodate dietary restrictions.

What to Serve with Chicken and Dressing

Classic Sides: Mashed potatoes, collard greens, cranberry sauce.
Gravy Options: White gravy, giblet gravy, or brown gravy for extra richness.

FAQs About Chicken and Dressing Recipe

Can I make chicken and dressing ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze chicken and dressing?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Cover with foil and bake at 325°F until heated through to maintain moisture.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Classic Chicken and Dressing

Now that you have the perfect classic chicken and dressing recipe, it’s time to bring this Southern classic to life in your kitchen. Whether it’s a holiday meal or a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish never disappoints.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to experiment with variations to make it your own.

Happy cooking!🤗