Baked Chicken With Cornbread Dressing
A hearty baked chicken with flavorful cornbread and bread dressing, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings, combining savory herbs, tender chicken, and moist stuffing.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped celery, chopped onion, and chopped parsley in margarine until tender.
- Mix the sautéed vegetables and herbs with cubed cornbread and bread, adding enough chicken broth to achieve a soft texture.
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and poultry seasoning if desired.
- Transfer the dressing to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for about one hour.
- Season the chicken as desired and bake for one hour or until fully cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful dressing, consider using leftover cornbread or adding diced sausage or nuts. You can substitute the margarine with butter for a richer taste. If you prefer a lighter option, use low-sodium chicken broth. To enhance the dish, try incorporating dried cranberries or apples for a hint of sweetness, complementing the savory elements beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This baked chicken with cornbread dressing pairs wonderfully with green beans or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For added flavor, serve with a side of cranberry sauce or a tangy vinaigrette. It's an excellent centerpiece for family gatherings or holiday feasts, making it a delightful choice among American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, place the dressing in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chicken With Cornbread Dressing contains roughly 930 calories, with 27g protein, 162g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (139% of the Daily Value), iron (112% of the Daily Value), and calcium (69% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1055mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought cornbread for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought cornbread can be used, but be sure to select a high-quality brand to maintain the flavor. If using pre-packaged cornbread, check for sweetness as it may alter the overall taste of the dressing.
What type of chicken is best for this dish?
You can use any cut of chicken, but bone-in pieces like thighs or drumsticks work particularly well, as they retain moisture during baking. For a quicker option, boneless chicken breasts can also be used, but ensure they are cooked properly to avoid dryness.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it right before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep or holiday gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).