This chicken & cornbread dressing casserole tastes like Southern heaven in your mouth

Chicken & Dressing Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together the flavors of juicy chicken, savory dressing, and a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe has historical significance as it is often served during special occasions and holiday gatherings, particularly in the southern United States. The origins of this dish can be traced back to traditional Southern cuisine, where it has been a favorite comfort food for generations.

This casserole is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course for lunch or dinner. To complete the meal, consider pairing it with a variety of tasty sides. Steamed vegetables like broccoli or carrots make a great accompaniment, as they add freshness and balance to the richness of the casserole. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread are also excellent choices to enhance the overall comfort and heartiness of the meal.

Ingredients:

1 8-inch pan of cooled cornbread
3 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
1 cup diced onion
1 cup diced celery
10 ounces cream of chicken soup
1/4 cup butter
2 cups water
1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Crumble cornbread into a large bowl.

3. In a skillet, melt butter, sauté onion and celery until tender. Season with salt and pepper.

4. Combine shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and crumbled cornbread in the bowl.

5. Spread mixture evenly in the baking dish.

6. In a saucepan, mix cream of chicken soup, poultry seasoning, and water, then pour over the casserole.

7. Bake for 40-45 minutes until heated through.

Serve hot.

Note: This recipe can be easily customized by adding cooked vegetables like peas or mushrooms to the casserole mixture before baking. Additionally, you can garnish the casserole with chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for extra flavor and presentation.