Chicken Spoon Bread
A hearty, savory spoon bread featuring tender chicken and a fluffy cornmeal base, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings that appreciate classic Southern flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Measure the corn meal and set aside.
- Heat milk, butter, dried minced onion, salt, basil, pepper, and tarragon in a large saucepan until the butter melts.
- Gradually stir in the corn meal.
- Cook over medium heat until the mixture boils.
- Cook for one minute, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and cool slightly.
- Stir in cooked chicken and egg yolks until thoroughly combined.
- Beat egg whites until stiff but not dry.
- Gently fold the egg whites into the cornmeal mixture.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve immediately, optionally topped with chicken gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try using half-and-half instead of milk. If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider adding some shredded cheese or diced bell peppers to the mixture. Ensure to beat the egg whites until they hold stiff peaks to give the spoon bread a light and airy texture. This dish is also versatile; you can use leftover roasted chicken or even turkey for a variation on classic chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken spoon bread warm, optionally drizzled with chicken gravy for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside American recipes like green beans or a light cucumber salad for a complete lunch or dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken spoon bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be careful not to overcook it as it may become dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Spoon Bread contains roughly 595 calories, with 31g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (62% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (57% of the Daily Value), and iron (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 986mg per serving (43% 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 different types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cooked chicken with other proteins like turkey, shredded beef, or even vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that any meat used is fully cooked before mixing it into the spoon bread.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before pouring it into the casserole dish and baking as directed. This will make it a convenient option for meal prep.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make chicken spoon bread gluten-free, substitute the enriched self-rising corn meal with a certified gluten-free cornmeal. Additionally, ensure that any other ingredients used, like chicken broth or gravy, are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
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).