Creamy Chicken Shortcake
Creamy Chicken Shortcake features tender cornbread topped with a rich, savory chicken gravy infused with onions and pimentos, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare cornbread mix according to package directions and bake.
- While the cornbread is baking, fry bacon in a medium-sized saucepan until lightly browned.
- Add butter to the pan and heat until melted.
- Stir in flour until well blended.
- Gradually stir in chicken broth, then milk, until smooth.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring until mixture simmers.
- Simmer, stirring often, for 4 minutes until thickened.
- Add chopped onion, chopped pimento, hot pepper sauce, and cubed cooked chicken; cook and stir for about 2 minutes.
- Cut the baked cornbread into 8 squares and serve topped with the chicken gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. You can substitute the cornbread mix with a homemade cornbread recipe if desired. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the hot pepper sauce or add diced jalapeños. You can also use leftover roasted chicken for a more convenient option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy chicken shortcake with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Hot Chicken Salad: Country Club Style for a delicious gathering or family dinner. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra pop of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover creamy chicken shortcake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently, until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain the texture of the cornbread.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Chicken Shortcake contains roughly 475 calories, with 15g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (163% of the Daily Value), iron (41% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 894mg per serving (39% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving and prepare the cornbread fresh to retain its texture. This way, you can enjoy a hassle-free meal on a busy day.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you want to make this dish healthier or vegetarian, you can omit the bacon and use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative for sautéing. For added flavor, consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the bacon flavor.
Can I freeze the creamy chicken shortcake?
While the chicken gravy can be frozen, the cornbread may become soggy upon thawing. For the best results, freeze the chicken mixture separately in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat before serving, and make fresh cornbread to accompany it.
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).