Nothing says comfort food like a warm, savory chicken and dressing. This classic recipe combines tender shredded chicken, flavorful herbs, and cornbread stuffing for a hearty, satisfying, and packed with homemade goodness. Whether served as a main course or a side, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, Sunday dinners, or holiday feasts. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a delicious, golden-baked dressing that pairs beautifully with gravy or a side of cranberry sauce.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups cooked, shredded chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth
• ½ cup milk
• 1 tsp dried sage
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 (6 oz) box cornbread stuffing mix
• ½ cup melted butter
• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the sautéed onion, celery, and garlic.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Add the cornbread stuffing mix and melted butter, stirring until evenly moistened. If the mixture seems too dry, add a little more broth or milk as needed.
6. Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown.
9. If desired, garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan before serving.

Tips for the Best Chicken and Dressing:

1. Use Homemade Cornbread (If Possible): While the boxed stuffing mix is convenient, using homemade crumbled cornbread will give the dressing a richer, more authentic flavor. Just make sure it’s slightly dry to absorb the broth properly.
2. Don’t Overmix: Stir the ingredients until just combined to keep the dressing from becoming too dense. Overmixing can lead to a gummy texture instead of a light and fluffy consistency.
3. Adjust Moisture to Your Liking: If you prefer a softer dressing, add a little extra chicken broth or milk before baking. For a crispier top, bake uncovered for a few extra minutes.

• This Chicken and Dressing is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for family meals or holiday gatherings. With tender chicken, aromatic herbs, and a soft yet crispy texture, it’s delicious on its own or served with gravy and cranberry sauce. Easy to make, this recipe is sure to be a favorite.