The Southern Comfort Classic That Brings Everyone to the Table
When it comes to Southern cuisine, few dishes can match the heartwarming, soul-satisfying taste of Southern Chicken and Cornbread Dressing. This recipe is more than just food—it’s family, tradition, and comfort on a plate. With layers of tender chicken, savory vegetables, rich broth, and crumbly cornbread seasoned to perfection, this Southern staple is a must-have on holiday menus and Sunday dinners alike.
Whether served at Thanksgiving, Christmas, or simply as a comforting weeknight dinner, chicken and cornbread dressing evokes feelings of nostalgia and home. It’s the kind of dish that tells a story with every bite.
What Is Southern Chicken and Cornbread Dressing?
Southern Chicken and Cornbread Dressing is not to be confused with stuffing. Stuffing is often baked inside a bird and made with white bread or boxed mixes. Dressing, especially Southern-style, is cooked outside the turkey and traditionally made with homemade cornbread, cooked chicken, and a savory mixture of celery, onion, and herbs.
In the South, this dish is a centerpiece rather than a side. It’s often moist, flavorful, and dense, with just the right amount of crisp edges from the oven.
Ingredients for the Perfect Southern Cornbread Dressing
To create this flavorful masterpiece, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients. It’s best to prepare the cornbread a day ahead for optimal texture.
Cornbread:
- 1 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
Dressing Mix:
- 4 cups crumbled, day-old cornbread
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (preferably seasoned)
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for sautéing)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 to 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (preferably homemade or low-sodium)
- 1 tablespoon poultry seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Cornbread
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a cast iron skillet or baking pan. In a large bowl, whisk the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter. Combine the wet and dry ingredients. Stir just until smooth.
Pour the batter into the skillet and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the cornbread to cool completely before crumbling.
Pro Tip: Let your cornbread sit overnight covered with a clean towel. This helps it dry out slightly, which is perfect for dressing texture.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
You can use rotisserie chicken, leftover roasted chicken, or boil fresh chicken breasts. For homemade, season chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Boil in water until fully cooked, then shred once cooled. Save the broth for later use in the dressing.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and celery. Sauté until softened, about 6 to 8 minutes. Stir often to prevent browning.
Step 4: Combine Everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, shredded chicken, sautéed vegetables, and seasonings (sage, poultry seasoning, thyme, salt, and pepper).
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and chicken broth. Pour over the cornbread mixture. Mix gently until everything is well combined and moist. You can add more broth as needed—just don’t overdo it.
Step 5: Bake the Dressing
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the dressing mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crisp.
Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Southern Chicken and Cornbread Dressing is a complete meal in itself but pairs beautifully with:
- Collard greens or mustard greens
- Candied yams or sweet potato casserole
- Green beans or green bean casserole
- Macaroni and cheese
- Gravy or cranberry sauce for extra flavor
This dish also works wonderfully as a leftover, often tasting even better the next day.
Why This Dish Is a Southern Staple
This dish holds a special place in Southern homes because it’s:
- Flavor-packed with layers of seasoned chicken, rich broth, and fragrant herbs
- Moist and comforting, especially with its buttery cornbread base
- Flexible and forgiving—it welcomes additions like sausage, boiled eggs, or chopped bell peppers
- Hearty and filling, making it ideal for feeding large families or holiday crowds
From Sunday dinners to Thanksgiving spreads, it’s hard to imagine a Southern gathering without this delicious tradition.
Tips for the Best Chicken and Cornbread Dressing
- Use real buttermilk for the cornbread if possible—it adds a slight tang and moisture.
- Don't overmix the dressing; it should be soft but not mushy.
- Taste the mixture before baking and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Let it sit before serving, which helps it firm up and absorb flavors.
- Add extra texture with chopped pecans or crumbled sausage.
Common Variations of Southern Cornbread Dressing
This dish is highly customizable. Here are some popular Southern-style twists:
1. Sausage and Chicken Dressing
Brown 1/2 pound of ground breakfast sausage and mix it in with the cornbread and chicken. It adds richness and a savory depth of flavor.
2. Seafood Dressing
Substitute shrimp or crabmeat for the chicken. Add Old Bay seasoning for a coastal flair.
3. Vegetarian Version
Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add sautéed mushrooms and chopped bell peppers for a rich, hearty version.
Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions
Southern Chicken and Cornbread Dressing is perfect for prepping in advance.
To make ahead:
Assemble the dish up to the point of baking. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bake when ready to serve.
To freeze:
Wrap the unbaked or baked dressing tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat:
- Oven: Cover with foil and warm at 300°F for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Reheat individual servings for 1-2 minutes. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)
- Calories: 360
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
Note: Nutrition will vary based on ingredients used.
The Legacy Behind Southern Chicken and Cornbread Dressing
This dish has deep roots in Southern culture, particularly in African-American households. It’s often a recipe passed down from grandmothers to grandchildren, each adding their own touch. It's not just food—it's part of Southern identity.
Whether enjoyed during holidays or on a casual weekend, this dish continues to unite families and communities around the table.
Final Thoughts
Southern Chicken and Cornbread Dressing is more than a recipe. It’s a heartfelt experience, filled with flavor, heritage, and comfort. It represents everything great about home-cooked Southern food—simple, satisfying, and made with love.