Chicken With Cornbread Dressing
A hearty Southern-style chicken and cornbread dressing, combining tender chicken, flavorful cornbread, and savory broth, perfect for comforting family dinners and special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 450°F.
- Grease an iron skillet and heat it.
- Beat eggs; add self-rising cornmeal, buttermilk, oil, and sugar.
- Blend well; pour into prepared skillet.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until brown.
- Boil chicken until tender; remove meat from bones and set aside.
- Set aside chicken broth from boiling.
- Crumble cooked cornbread into a large pan.
- Add 4 slices of white bread to the cornbread.
- Pour chicken broth over hot bread and mix well.
- Add chopped onion, chopped celery, cooked chicken meat, cream of chicken soup, and chicken bouillon cubes.
- Pour mixture into a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking pan.
- Bake for about 30 to 45 minutes at 350°F or until brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cornbread dressing, consider substituting half of the self-rising cornmeal with whole wheat flour. If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. To enhance the flavor, you might add herbs like sage or thyme, which are commonly found in Southern American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken With Cornbread Dressing pairs beautifully with steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or any of your favorite chicken recipes. A drizzle of gravy can add extra flavor, making it a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture, heating at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken With Cornbread Dressing contains roughly 492 calories, with 11g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1748mg per serving (76% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cornbread dressing a day in advance. Assemble the mixture, cover it, and refrigerate. Just before baking, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes and then bake as instructed. This can enhance the flavors as they meld together.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
If you want a healthier alternative, you can use homemade cream of chicken sauce or substitute it with a combination of sour cream and chicken broth. This keeps the dish creamy while allowing you to control the ingredients, making it a great option for those seeking lighter American recipes.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Using leftover chicken is a great way to save time and reduce waste. Just ensure that the chicken is shredded and properly seasoned to enhance the overall flavor of the dish. This method works well, especially if you have extra from dishes like Mama Shari'S Chicken-N-Rice.
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).