cornbread dressing with chicken recipe
The Best cornbread dressing with chicken recipe
Cornbread dressing with chicken is one of my favorite ways to make a meal feel special—whether it’s a weekend brunch for the family or a quick weeknight dinner that still tastes like a holiday. I love how it brings all the cozy flavors together: the tender chicken, the sweet and slightly tangy cornbread dressing, and that perfect crunch from the toasted cornbread bits at the bottom. My kids always ask for seconds because it’s so easy to eat with their hands, and it’s always a hit at potlucks or when I’m feeding a crowd. It’s not just a dish—it’s a comfort that feels like home, and it’s so versatile. You can make it ahead and reheat it, or serve it fresh from the oven, and it never disappoints.
What I also love about this recipe is how it balances well with other foods. It’s light enough to pair with a fresh salad or a simple green veggie, but it also holds up to heartier sides like roasted potatoes or a creamy mac and cheese. And because it’s made with whole grains and lean protein, it’s a healthier option than you might think—just watch the portion sizes if you’re adding extra butter or cheese. My family loves that it’s filling without being heavy, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or even just a simple weeknight meal. Plus, the cornbread dressing gives it that extra depth that makes it feel like a restaurant-quality dish, even if you’re cooking at home. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug in every bite.
Classic Cornbread Dressing with Chicken
A comforting Southern-style dish featuring tender chicken in a savory cornbread dressing, perfect for potlucks or family meals. The cornbread dough adds a delightful texture and flavor to the dish.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
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2 For the cornbread dough: In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, salt, and baking powder. Stir in buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until just combined. Let the dough rest for 5 minutes.
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3 Preheat a skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked (165°F internal temperature). Let cool slightly, then slice into strips.
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4 For the sauce: In a slow cooker or Dutch oven, combine chicken broth, mayonnaise, ketchup, BBQ sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Stir well and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until chicken is tender.
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5 While the sauce cooks, preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Shape the cornbread dough into a 9-inch round on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
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6 For the final sauce: In a small skillet, heat tomato sauce and garlic over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Stir in olive oil and shredded cheese (if using). Pour this sauce over the sliced chicken in the slow cooker. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes.
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7 Serve the chicken dressing over the baked cornbread, garnished with extra shredded cheese if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Oven
- Slow cooker or Dutch oven
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Cornbread Dressing with Chicken Works
This cornbread dressing with chicken recipe is a simple yet crowd-pleasing way to serve up comfort food anytime, especially during family gatherings. It’s the kind of dish that feels homemade and hearty, perfect for filling up a table when you want something familiar but still fresh. Whether it’s a casual Sunday dinner or a holiday spread, this meal brings everyone together with its rich flavors and easy prep, making it a reliable go-to for any occasion.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cornbread Dressing with Chicken
1. What is the primary difference between cornbread dressing and traditional chicken and stuffing?
The primary difference lies in the texture and ingredients. Cornbread dressing typically uses a mix of cornbread crumbs, corn kernels, and sometimes cornmeal, creating a lighter, more corn-forward flavor compared to traditional stuffing, which often relies on breadcrumbs, herbs, and a broth base.
2. Can I substitute regular cornbread for homemade cornbread in this recipe?
Yes, you can use store-bought cornbread, but for the best texture and flavor, homemade cornbread works best. If you must use store-bought, ensure it’s a well-seasoned, moist variety to mimic the flavor and crumb structure of homemade.
3. How do I ensure the cornbread dressing stays moist and doesn’t get dry?
To keep cornbread dressing moist, use a combination of corn kernels (fresh or frozen), extra broth or chicken stock, and a small amount of melted butter or oil. Avoid overmixing, and consider adding a splash of milk or cream cheese for added moisture if needed.
4. What type of chicken should I use for this recipe, and how do I prepare it?
You can use any boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thighs, or even a whole chicken cut into pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (like thyme or rosemary) before roasting or poaching. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the cornbread dressing and chicken in advance, refrigerate it, and reheat it gently in the oven (around 350°F/175°C) until hot. For best results, store the components separately until ready to assemble and reheat.
