If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table, then the Chicken Cornbread Casserole Recipe is just the ticket! This comforting casserole combines tender chicken, sweet cornbread, and creamy goodness all in one dish. It’s a staple that finds its way into many family meals, especially on busy weeknights.
What is Chicken Cornbread Casserole?
Chicken Cornbread Casserole is a one-pan dish that features shredded chicken mixed with a creamy sauce, topped with a layer of cornbread batter. Once baked, you will have a soft, fluffy cornbread topping that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken filling beneath. It’s like having a delicious chicken pot pie and cornbread in one dish!
Ingredients for Chicken Cornbread Casserole Recipe
To prepare this mouthwatering casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas and carrots work great)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cornbread Topping
- Optional Toppings
- Shredded cheese (cheddar works perfectly)
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
How to Make Chicken Cornbread Casserole Recipe
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your casserole bakes evenly.
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked chicken, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, frozen vegetables, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is combined well.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the chicken mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Make the Cornbread Topping: In another bowl, combine the cornbread mix, egg, and milk. Stir until just combined; do not overmix, as this can make the cornbread tough.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the cornbread mixture over the chicken mixture. Use a spatula to gently spread it out to cover the chicken evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You want the cornbread topping to be golden brown and set. Insert a toothpick into the cornbread to check; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
- Optional Step: If you like, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top for the last 5-10 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust.
- Cool and Serve: Once out of the oven, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chicken Cornbread Casserole
- Shredded Chicken: You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even canned chicken if that’s what you have. It makes the recipe super quick.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables. Corn, green beans, or broccoli are excellent choices.
- Cornbread Mix: If you want to make cornbread from scratch, that’s totally possible. Just substitute the store-bought mix with your favorite homemade cornbread recipe.
- Add Spice: For an extra kick, consider adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Cornbread Casserole
This casserole is filling and flavorful on its own, but you might want to serve it with some sides for a complete meal. Here are some great options:
- Side Salads: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the casserole.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans add a nice touch.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can offer a refreshing crunch.
Storage Tips for Chicken Cornbread Casserole
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Place any cooled casserole in an airtight container. It should be good in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, place the individual servings in the microwave for a few minutes or pop it back in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
- Freeze: You can freeze the casserole before baking. Just cover it well and thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. It can also be frozen after baking for about 2-3 months.
Variations of Chicken Cornbread Casserole
One of the best things about this casserole is its versatility. Here are some fun twists you might like:
- BBQ Chicken Cornbread Casserole: Swap out the cream of chicken soup for BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
- Mexican Chicken Cornbread Casserole: Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and top with Mexican cheese blend instead.
- Buffalo Chicken Casserole: Mix in buffalo sauce with the chicken for a spicy kick. Pair it with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Cornbread Casserole
This dish is not only delicious but can also provide several nutritional benefits:
- Protein: The chicken provides a healthy dose of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Vegetables: Including those mixed veggies boosts fiber and adds vitamins.
- Cornmeal: The cornbread offers carbohydrates for energy, plus some nutrients like iron.
The Chicken Cornbread Casserole Recipe is a fantastic choice for dinner. It’s simple, hearty, and loved by both kids and adults. Whether for a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish will surely be a hit. So gather your ingredients and enjoy making this comforting meal that will warm hearts and tummies!