Description
This Southern Cornbread Chicken Dressing is a true comfort classic, combining golden cornbread, savory rotisserie chicken, and a medley of seasonings for a dish that’s hearty, moist, and flavorful. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like home perfect for holidays or any time you’re craving a soulful, satisfying side. Made with pantry staples and easy to prep ahead, this version bakes up beautifully every time.
Ingredients
- 12-inch pan of cornbread (made from 2 cornbread mixes)
- 3–4 slices stale white bread, torn (heel pieces work great)
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons poultry seasoning
- 6 large eggs, beaten
- 1 stick (½ cup) unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 small cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken recommended)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Bread Base
Crumble the cornbread into a large mixing bowl. Tear the stale white bread into small pieces and add it in. The drier the bread, the better it will soak up the broth. -
Cook the Aromatics
In a skillet, melt half of the butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and celery, and sauté for about 8–10 minutes until soft and translucent. -
Mix the Dressing
Add the sautéed vegetables to the bowl with the bread. Stir in the shredded chicken, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning. Pour in the beaten eggs, melted butter, and chicken broth. Mix gently until well combined. The mixture should be moist but not soupy. -
Bake the Dressing
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish (9×13-inch recommended). Pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until golden brown on top and set in the center.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken adds both convenience and deep flavor. Be sure to include a mix of white and dark meat for best results.
- If the mixture feels too dry, add up to ½ cup more broth before baking.
- To make ahead, assemble the dressing and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.
- For extra richness, use homemade chicken stock instead of broth.
- Stale bread tip: If your bread isn’t stale, dry it in a 250°F oven for 15–20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: southern cornbread dressing, cornbread chicken dressing, holiday side dish, thanksgiving dressing, rotisserie chicken recipe, savory cornbread stuffing, easy dressing recipe, baked chicken dressing, comfort food classic