1. Introduction to the Recipe

When it comes to soul-soothing comfort food, few dishes can rival a warm, savory Chicken & Dressing Casserole. This Southern-inspired recipe is a family favorite, combining tender shredded chicken, seasoned bread dressing, aromatic vegetables, and a rich homemade gravy that ties everything together in a single, crowd-pleasing bake. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast or looking for a cozy Sunday dinner option, this dish brings all the nostalgic flavors of traditional Thanksgiving dressing, but with far less fuss.

One of the standout features of this casserole is its simplicity and versatility. Using ingredients like cornbread or dried bread cubes, chicken broth, and cream of onion soup, it comes together easily while offering a layered flavor profile. The poultry seasoning and sage add depth, while the creamy gravy—made from butter, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream—creates the perfect finishing touch.

If you’re new to dressing-based casseroles, check out this helpful guide to Southern cornbread dressing for deeper insights into traditional methods. And if you’re looking for tips on how to roast and shred chicken perfectly, there are expert techniques that can enhance the texture and flavor of your dish.

Whether you’re repurposing leftover chicken or making it from scratch, Chicken & Dressing Casserole is a flexible dish that adapts to your kitchen needs. With its golden crust and savory aroma, it’s guaranteed to become a go-to recipe that pleases everyone at the table—without demanding hours in the kitchen.

2. Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Classic Chicken & Dressing Casserole with Creamy Homemade Gravy

Author: Sarah White

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Description

Comforting Chicken & Dressing Casserole recipe with creamy gravy – perfect for family dinners, holidays, or cozy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Casserole:

4 cups shredded cooked chicken

4 cups cornbread or cubed dried bread
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped onion

1 can cream of onion soup (10.5 oz)
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons butter

1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
1/2 teaspoon dried sage
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Gravy:

1/4 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Sauté Vegetables:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add chopped celery and onion. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.

Prepare the Dressing Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, cornbread (or dried bread), sautéed vegetables, poultry seasoning, sage, and cream of onion soup. Mix well.
Add Liquid and Seasoning:
Gradually pour in chicken broth and stir until the mixture is evenly moistened but not soggy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.

Bake the Casserole:
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Make the Gravy:
While the casserole is baking, melt 1/4 cup butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in chicken broth, then add heavy cream. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot, topped with the creamy gravy.

Notes

Using day-old cornbread or bread gives the best texture—avoid overly moist bread.

Adjust the consistency of the dressing mixture before baking—if it’s too dry, add more broth a little at a time.

For deeper flavor, roast your own chicken or use a rotisserie chicken from the store for a shortcut.

3. Advanced Techniques

1. Boosting Flavor with Homemade Stock

For a richer flavor profile, replace boxed chicken broth with homemade chicken stock. Simmer chicken bones with onions, garlic, celery, carrots, and herbs for a few hours to extract maximum umami depth. This base enhances both the casserole and the gravy, making the dish taste more like a labor of love—even if it’s a weeknight meal.

2. Toasting the Bread for Better Texture

If using fresh bread instead of day-old, toast the cubes in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes until lightly crisp. This helps prevent sogginess and adds a more satisfying bite to the finished casserole. This is especially helpful when you want to control moisture levels and achieve a firm, golden top layer.

3. Layering Flavors with Herbs and Aromatics

Don’t limit yourself to sage and poultry seasoning. Consider adding fresh thyme, a touch of rosemary, or even minced garlic while sautéing the onions and celery. These added aromatics can create a more complex, herbaceous base that makes the casserole stand out from more basic renditions.

4. Caramelizing the Onions for Extra Sweetness

For a slightly sweet and richer depth of flavor, caramelize the onions instead of simply sautéing. This process takes about 15–20 minutes on low heat but adds complexity that balances the savory and creamy components beautifully. It’s a simple upgrade with noticeable results.

5. Baking in Individual Portions

For a more elegant presentation or easy serving, bake the casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes. This allows for quicker cooking times and avoids overbaking while giving each guest their own perfectly portioned serving. Plus, it makes the meal feel extra special—even on a casual evening.

See more advanced recipes at cookingwhite.com

4. Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

1. Refrigeration for Up to 4 Days

Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions with a splash of broth to retain moisture.

2. Freezing the Casserole for Longer Storage

This casserole freezes exceptionally well. Assemble it fully but do not bake. Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap and store for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time.

3. Storing the Gravy Separately

Always store the homemade gravy separately from the casserole to prevent sogginess. Keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly on the stovetop, whisking in extra broth if needed to restore its silky texture.

4. Avoiding Dry Reheats

To keep leftovers moist, cover with foil when reheating and add a tablespoon or two of broth. Avoid using high heat in the microwave, which can make the bread base rubbery or dry. Low, slow reheating is key to preserving the dish’s comforting texture.

5. Meal Prep for Busy Weeks

Split the unbaked casserole into two smaller dishes—bake one now and freeze the other for later. This not only saves time but helps with portion control, and it ensures you always have a hearty, homemade meal ready for last-minute dinner needs.

5. Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

1. Making It Gluten-Free

Substitute gluten-free bread or cornbread and use a gluten-free cream of onion soup (or make your own using GF flour). Ensure the chicken broth and all seasonings are certified gluten-free. The result is just as flavorful and satisfying without compromising texture.

2. Dairy-Free and Lactose-Free Version

Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and swap out heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or unsweetened oat cream. Look for a dairy-free cream of onion soup or make your own with dairy-free milk and a thickener like cornstarch.

3. Lower-Sodium Adaptation

Use a low-sodium broth and make your own cream of onion soup to control salt content. Avoid added salt in the casserole mix and season to taste just before baking. This helps you stay heart-healthy without sacrificing the flavor complexity.

4. Vegetarian Version

Substitute shredded chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a hearty grain like farro. Use vegetable broth and a vegetarian cream of soup. You’ll still get that rich, herby flavor, but in a plant-based package ideal for meat-free diets.

5. Egg-Free Modification

Though this recipe doesn’t call for eggs, some may add eggs for binding. If you need an egg-free version, stick to the original—its texture holds up well without needing eggs thanks to the soup and broth mixture.

6. FAQs About the Recipe

1. Can I use boxed stuffing mix instead of homemade bread?

Yes! Boxed stuffing mix is a great shortcut if you’re in a rush. Use the same amount (4 cups) and adjust the salt and poultry seasoning accordingly since boxed mixes often come pre-seasoned. Be cautious about added sodium and flavors that might compete with your gravy.

2. How do I prevent my casserole from becoming soggy?

The key is to ensure your bread is dry before mixing and not to overdo the broth. Add it gradually until the mixture is moist but not overly wet. Baking uncovered also helps the top brown and prevents the interior from becoming mushy.

3. Can this be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the full casserole a day ahead and store it covered in the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. This is a great make-ahead option for holidays or busy weeknights.

4. Is the gravy necessary, or can I skip it?

While optional, the creamy gravy really enhances the dish by adding richness and moisture. If you skip it, consider drizzling a little extra broth over the casserole after baking, or serve with a dollop of sour cream or mushroom sauce.

5. Can I add vegetables or mix-ins?

Yes! Add-ins like sautéed mushrooms, chopped spinach, or even diced cooked carrots can complement the dish. Just be sure to cook and drain them well so they don’t water down the mixture. Mixing in cheese is also a popular upgrade.

7. Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Chicken & Dressing Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it combines savory chicken, herb-infused dressing, and velvety gravy to create a hearty, satisfying meal for any time of year. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd during the holidays or just looking to spice up your weeknight dinner rotation, this casserole has a timeless appeal.

Its flexibility is one of its best qualities. You can swap in your favorite bread, adjust the seasonings, or tailor it to your dietary needs without sacrificing that quintessential “home-cooked” feeling. Plus, it freezes well, reheats like a dream, and fills your kitchen with the nostalgic aroma of Sunday dinners gone by.

Perfect for potlucks, celebrations, or a weeknight where you just need something that feels like a warm hug, Chicken & Dressing Casserole proves that classic dishes never go out of style. Make it your own with fresh herbs, homemade gravy, or your favorite sides—and don’t be surprised if it becomes a recipe you return to again and again.