Quick And Easy Chicken And Dressing
A creamy, savory chicken casserole with crunchy water chestnuts and stuffing topping, perfect for a quick family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 12 x 14-inch pan.
- Top with one package of Pepperidge Farm stuffing.
- Drizzle 1/4 pound of melted butter over the stuffing.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 45 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of shredded cheese or using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken for a different flavor. If you don’t have water chestnuts, chopped nuts can provide a similar crunch. This dish can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking to save time.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or garlic bread. You can also top it with fresh herbs or serve with cranberry sauce for a festive touch, making it a great choice for gatherings and holidays.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated completely.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick And Easy Chicken And Dressing contains roughly 610 calories, with 3g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 767mg per serving (33% 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 raw chicken instead of cooked?
Using raw chicken is not recommended for this recipe, as it will not cook evenly. It's best to use pre-cooked, diced chicken to ensure the dish bakes properly and achieves the right flavor and texture. You can use leftover chicken from dishes like Chicken And Dumpling Recipe or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, to make a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with a plant-based alternative like diced mushrooms or tofu. You can also replace cream of mushroom soup with a vegetable-based cream soup and ensure the stuffing used is meat-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian casserole that is filling and satisfying.
How can I adjust the recipe for a smaller portion?
To adjust for a smaller portion, you can halve the ingredients, using 1/2 lb of chicken and reducing the other ingredients accordingly. Bake the mixture in a smaller dish, such as an 8 x 8-inch pan. Keep an eye on the baking time, as it may be slightly less than the original recipe due to the smaller volume.
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).