Imagine a dish that brings back memories of warm holidays and family gatherings. This Cornbread Dressing with Chicken recipe is more than just a meal—it’s a cherished family tradition. Originating from a first Thanksgiving in Nashville, this recipe has been refined over 12 years to capture the authentic taste of homemade dressing, blending traditional techniques with modern touches.
At the heart of this recipe is a tip from my grandmother, “Juju”: the secret to an exceptional dressing lies in using greasy fast-food biscuits. This unexpected ingredient adds a unique texture that elevates the dish beyond the ordinary. The recipe also incorporates shredded chicken, perfectly seasoned with kosher salt, pepper, garlic powder, and poultry seasoning, creating a flavorful base that’s both hearty and aromatic.
This Cornbread Dressing with Chicken is a balance of precise measurements and a heartfelt story. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this dish offers a comforting blend of tradition and love. Let’s walk through the ingredients and cooking methods that make this recipe a standout.
- A cherished family recipe with origins in Nashville
- Blends traditional techniques with modern tweaks
- Features shredded chicken and greasy fast-food biscuits
- Perfect for holidays or cozy family meals
Table of Contents
Introduction to Cornbread Dressing with Chicken
Step into the warmth of a classic Southern dish that has captured hearts for generations. This Cornbread Dressing with Chicken recipe is a testament to tradition, love, and the art of home cooking.
Background and Inspiration
The origins of this beloved dish trace back to a first Thanksgiving in Nashville, where a young couple sought to create a memorable meal. The story begins with a phone call to “Juju,” the grandmother, whose wisdom and culinary instincts guided the creation of this recipe. Her secret? The unconventional use of greasy fast-food biscuits, which added an extraordinary texture, setting this dressing apart from the rest.
The Personal Story Behind the Recipe
What started as a nervous endeavor transformed into a triumph of flavor and tradition. The recipe, honed over 12 years, reflects a delicate balance of precise measurements and intuitive cooking. Each bite carries the essence of family gatherings and the comforting reassurance of home.
| Aspect | Traditional Element | Modern Twist |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Cornbread | Greasy fast-food biscuits |
| Protein | Shredded chicken | Seasoned with kosher salt and poultry seasoning |
| Preparation | Family recipe | Refined over 12 years |
This dish is more than a meal; it’s a story of love, adaptation, and the enduring power of family traditions.
Essential Ingredients for Your Cornbread Dressing with Chicken
Creating a memorable Cornbread Dressing with Chicken begins with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in crafting a dish that resonates with tradition and flavor.
Chicken, Cornbread, and Biscuits
The foundation of this recipe lies in its star ingredients. High-quality chicken is essential, whether you prefer shredded or diced pieces. For the base, a 1-pound loaf of cornbread is ideal, paired with greasy fast-food biscuits for that unique texture. Allow both the cornbread and biscuits to stale for at least 48 hours to achieve the perfect consistency.
Key Vegetables and Seasonings
The aromatic base of this dish is built with onions and celery, sautéed to bring out their natural sweetness. Poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper are the backbone of the seasoning, enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering it. These elements create a balanced profile that complements the other ingredients seamlessly.
| Aspect | Traditional Element | Modern Twist |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Cornbread | Greasy fast-food biscuits |
| Protein | Shredded chicken | Seasoned with kosher salt and poultry seasoning |
| Preparation | Family recipe | Refined over 12 years |
Each ingredient contributes uniquely to the dish’s authenticity and flavor, ensuring a culinary experience that’s both hearty and aromatic. This careful selection and preparation make the Cornbread Dressing with Chicken a standout dish for any occasion.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to bring your Cornbread Dressing with Chicken to life. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process, ensuring each component comes together perfectly.
Sautéing Onions and Celery
Start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and celery, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until they’re tender and fragrant. This step is crucial as it lays the aromatic foundation of your dish.
Combining Ingredients and Assembling the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetable mixture with crumbled cornbread and white bread. Mix in shredded chicken, chicken broth, and cream of chicken soup. Season with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Use a potato masher to blend until the mixture reaches a gelatinous consistency.
Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch pan and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45 minutes to an hour, until golden brown. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked through, typically around 160°F.
Tips for Perfect Texture and Flavor
Achieving the ideal texture and flavor in your Cornbread Dressing with Chicken requires attention to a few key details. These tips will help you create a dish that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
Allowing Cornbread and Biscuits to Get Stale
Letting your cornbread and biscuits sit out for 48 to 72 hours is crucial. This staling process allows them to absorb the broth evenly, ensuring a consistent texture. If you’re short on time, you can speed up the process by placing them in a cold oven for a few hours.
Adjusting Consistency with Broth and Cream
The right consistency is key to a perfect dressing. Start with 2 cups of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of cream of chicken soup. Add more broth or cream gradually until you reach your desired texture. This balance ensures the dressing isn’t too dry or overly soggy.
Prepping ahead can simplify your cooking process. Chop onions and celery a day in advance, and shred your chicken up to three days before. You can even fully cook the dressing and refrigerate it for up to five days, reheating it with a splash of extra broth when you’re ready to serve. These small steps make a big difference in both texture and flavor, ensuring your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Advanced Tricks and Variations
Elevate your Cornbread Dressing with Chicken to new heights with these expert tips and creative twists. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or looking to impress your family, these techniques will help you master the dish while adding your personal flair.
Make-Ahead Preparation Techniques
Prepping ahead can save you time and stress during busy holidays. Chop onions and celery up to a day in advance and store them in airtight containers. For the chicken, roast and shred it up to three days before. You can even assemble the entire dressing, cover it with foil, and refrigerate overnight. When you’re ready to serve, let it come to room temperature, add a splash of broth, and bake as instructed.
Customizing Seasonings to Suit Your Taste
While the base recipe is delicious, feel free to experiment with seasonings. Add a pinch of sage for earthiness or an extra can of cream of chicken soup for richness. These small tweaks allow you to tailor the dish to your family’s preferences while keeping its traditional charm.
These advanced techniques not only simplify your cooking process but also invite creativity, ensuring your Cornbread Dressing with Chicken remains a beloved tradition for years to come.
Nutritional Information and Serving Suggestions
Discover how this dish fits into a balanced diet and explore creative ways to serve it.
Detailed Nutritional Breakdown
This recipe serves 8-10 people, with each serving providing:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 43g |
| Protein | 11g |
| Sodium | 672mg |
Creative Serving Ideas and Side Pairings
Elevate your meal with these serving suggestions:
- Pair with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or sweet potatoes.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad for contrast.
- Use as a filling main course during holidays.
- Reheat leftovers with a splash of broth for moisture.
Presentation matters! Transfer the dressing to a 9×13-inch dish for a family-style serving that’s both appealing and convenient.
Conclusion
As you finalize your Cornbread Dressing with Chicken, remember that this dish is more than just a meal—it’s a legacy of love and tradition. The journey from selecting ingredients to savoring the finished dish is a testament to the care and effort that goes into creating something truly special.
This recipe, passed down from “Juju,” carries a deep personal history that makes every bite meaningful. It’s a story of adaptation and the enduring power of family traditions, refined over the years to capture the perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Feel free to make this recipe your own by experimenting with minor tweaks. Whether it’s the centerpiece of a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, this dish offers a comforting blend of tradition and versatility. Let the memories you create while cooking and sharing this dish be as cherished as the recipe itself.
FAQ
How long does it take to cook cornbread dressing with chicken?
The total cooking time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes 30 minutes for baking the cornbread and 45 minutes for preparing and cooking the entire dish.
What makes Southern-style cornbread dressing unique?
Southern-style cornbread dressing is known for its crumbly cornbread base, sautéed vegetables like onion and celery, and the use of poultry seasoning. It’s often baked in a skillet or casserole dish for a golden-brown crust.
Can I make the dressing creamier?
Yes, you can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the mixture for a richer texture. This balances the savory flavors of the chicken and cornbread.
Do I need to use homemade cornbread, or can I use store-bought?
While homemade cornbread is traditional, store-bought cornbread or even cornbread mix works perfectly. Just make sure it’s stale or day-old for the best texture.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
What’s the best way to season the dish?
Poultry seasoning is the star, but you can also add salt, pepper, and a pinch of sage or thyme for extra depth. Adjust to your taste preferences.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe typically serves 6-8 people as a side dish. If you’re serving it as a main course, it will feed 4-6.
What are some good side dishes to pair with this recipe?
It pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. For a holiday meal, consider adding cranberry sauce or roasted vegetables.
