Chicken and Dressing
A Southern comfort classic combining tender shredded chicken with a flavorful, moist cornbread dressing, baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Mixing Bowls
- Baking Dish
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 whole chicken about 4–5 lbs, or use 4 large chicken breasts
- 6 cups chicken broth reserved after cooking the chicken
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp butter optional, for added richness
For the Dressing
- 8 cups crumbled cornbread about 1 large pan of baked cornbread
- 4 slices day-old bread crumbled
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onion
- 2-3 cups chicken broth adjust for desired consistency
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1 tsp poultry seasoning
- 1 tsp sage optional, for enhanced flavor
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp melted butter optional, for topping
Instructions
- Place the chicken in a large pot and cover with water. Add salt and optional aromatics like garlic or bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Simmer for 45–60 minutes (whole chicken) or 25–30 minutes (chicken breasts) until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and let cool.
- Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside. Strain and reserve the chicken broth for the dressing.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine crumbled cornbread, crumbled day-old bread, poultry seasoning, sage, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in diced celery and onion. Optionally, sauté them in butter beforehand for extra flavor.
- Add beaten eggs and 2 cups of reserved chicken broth. Stir to combine, adding more broth as needed until moist but not soupy.
- Spread shredded chicken evenly across the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Spoon the dressing mixture over the chicken and spread evenly. Drizzle with melted butter if desired.
- Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes until golden brown on top and firm in the center.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with mashed potatoes, green beans, or cranberry sauce.
Notes
For a richer flavor, mix shredded chicken directly into the dressing instead of layering. Add crumbled cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a unique twist.