Chicken Cornbread Casserole Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy chicken filling with a cheesy, golden cornbread crust. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. With customizable spice levels and minimal prep, this dish will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Requires only eight pantry staples.
• Quick Prep: Ready in just 30 minutes with minimal effort.
• Versatile: Easily adjustable to suit your spice preferences or dietary needs.
• Family-Friendly: Perfect for satisfying even picky eaters.

Ingredients for Chicken Cornbread Casserole

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish together:

For the Filling:

• 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken is an excellent choice)
• 1 (11-ounce) can corn (drained)
• 1 (10-ounce) can of Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies (do not drain)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (choose mild, regular, or hot based on your spice tolerance)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup of shredded Cheddar Jack or Cheddar cheese 

For the Cornbread Topping:

• 1 (6 or 7-ounce) packet of cornbread mix (e.g., Martha White® Cotton Country Cornbread)
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• 1 cup of shredded Cheddar Jack or Cheddar cheese 
• Liquid as per cornbread mix instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking for both the filling and cornbread topping.

2. Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • Shredded chicken
   • Drained corn
   • Rotel tomatoes (with liquid)
   • Taco seasoning
   • Sour cream
   • 1 cup of shredded cheese
2. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.

3. Assemble the Casserole

• Transfer the chicken mixture to a greased 10-inch cast-iron skillet or a similar-sized casserole dish.

4. Make the Cornbread Topping

1. In another bowl, prepare the cornbread batter:
   • Combine cornbread mix, egg, liquid as directed on the package, and 1 cup of shredded cheese.
2. Mix until smooth and pour evenly over the chicken filling.

5. Bake

• Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes.
• Check the cornbread’s doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. If not fully cooked, continue baking for an additional 5–10 minutes. 

6. Cool and Serve

• Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This makes slicing easier and enhances the flavor.

Directions at a Glance

Tips for the Perfect Chicken Cornbread Casserole

1. Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, which can affect melting.
2. Customize the Spice Level: Opt for mild or spicy Rotel and taco seasoning based on your preferences.
3. Check Cornbread Doneness: If the cornbread isn’t fully baked, tent the dish with foil and bake longer to prevent over-browning.
4. Add Texture: Consider adding black beans or diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
5. Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: It provides even heat distribution for a perfectly cooked casserole.

Nutritional Facts

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on six servings):

Community Praise and Reviews

This recipe has earned rave reviews:

• Christina J.: “My family couldn’t stop eating this! The cheesy cornbread topping is heavenly.”
• Mark P.: “Such an easy and flavorful dish. I love how customizable it is!”
• Tina W.: “A great potluck dish! I added black beans, and it was a hit.”

FAQs

Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes! Prepare the filling and cornbread batter separately, refrigerate them, and assemble just before baking.

Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Absolutely. Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

What Can I Serve With This Dish?

Pair it with a green salad, guacamole, or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.

Variations and Substitutions

1. Swap Chicken for Beef: Use cooked and crumbled ground beef for a different flavor.
2. Make It Vegetarian: Replace chicken with black beans or crumbled tofu.
3. Add Heat: Sprinkle diced jalapeños or hot sauce on top of the cornbread batter.

Conclusion

This Chicken Cornbread Casserole is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a potluck, this dish is sure to impress, Chicken Cornbread Casserole Recipe.