Recipes With Cornbread and Chicken for Easy Comfort Meals

Combining the hearty flavors of cornbread and chicken creates a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings. Cornbread’s slightly sweet, crumbly texture pairs beautifully with tender, juicy chicken, offering a delightful contrast that satisfies both the palate and the soul.

Whether baked together in a casserole or served side-by-side, these two ingredients bring warmth and nostalgia to the table. In this post, we’ll explore delicious recipes featuring cornbread and chicken that are easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and sure to become staples in your recipe collection.

Whether you’re craving classic Southern comfort food or looking to try a new twist on traditional dishes, these recipes highlight the versatility of cornbread and chicken. From skillet meals to layered casseroles, each recipe offers something unique while keeping the preparation straightforward and accessible.

Let’s dive into the wonderful world of cornbread and chicken recipes that you’ll love to cook and even more to eat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These recipes combine two beloved ingredients—cornbread and chicken—into dishes that are both satisfying and flavorful. The slight sweetness of cornbread complements the savory, juicy chicken perfectly, creating a balanced and hearty meal.

Additionally, these recipes are versatile, allowing you to customize spices, vegetables, and cooking methods to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

Another reason to love these dishes is their simplicity. Most recipes require common pantry staples and can be prepared with minimal fuss, making them ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend cooking.

Plus, the comforting nature of cornbread and chicken makes these recipes great for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced; rotisserie chicken works well)
• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• 9×9-inch baking dish or cast iron skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or fork
• Spatula
• Oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Skillet or frying pan

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a cast iron skillet, place it in the oven while it preheats to get it hot.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and bell peppers. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the cornbread batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Stir well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
4. Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter until fully combined.
5. Combine wet and dry ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cornbread tender.
6. Add cheese and cooked vegetables: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, sautéed onions, and bell peppers. Next, add the cooked chicken and gently mix to distribute evenly.
7. Transfer to baking dish: If using a cast iron skillet, carefully remove it from the oven (use oven mitts!) and grease it lightly with butter or oil. Pour the batter into the hot skillet or prepared 9×9-inch baking dish.
8. Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool and serve: Allow the cornbread chicken casserole to cool slightly before slicing. This helps it set and makes for easier serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra moisture, try adding a half cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter—it adds richness and a slight tang that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.

Feel free to customize your cornbread and chicken dishes by adding your favorite vegetables such as corn kernels, jalapeños for a spicy kick, or fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary. Using smoked or BBQ chicken can also add a depth of flavor that transforms the dish.

If you prefer a crispier topping, sprinkle some additional shredded cheese or crushed tortilla chips on top before baking. For a lighter option, swap whole milk for almond or oat milk and reduce the butter slightly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This hearty cornbread and chicken dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a Southern-inspired meal, serve with collard greens, black-eyed peas, or a tangy coleslaw.

Additionally, a side of baked beans or roasted sweet potatoes can bring complementary flavors and textures. Don’t forget a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream for an added touch of zest!

Delicious Recipes with Cornbread and Chicken

Classic Chicken and Cornbread Casserole

This recipe layers shredded chicken over a cheesy cornbread base, baked to golden perfection. It’s a crowd-pleaser that melds flavors beautifully.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 box cornbread mix (or homemade cornbread batter)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can cream of chicken soup
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix cream of chicken soup, milk, onions, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread half the cornbread batter evenly in a greased baking dish.
4. Layer shredded chicken over the batter, then pour the soup mixture on top.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top and cover with remaining cornbread batter.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes until cornbread is golden and cooked through.

Skillet Cornbread with Crispy Chicken Thighs

This one-pan meal combines crispy seasoned chicken thighs with moist, buttery cornbread baked right in the same skillet for convenient, flavorful cooking.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C).
2. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat, sear chicken thighs skin-side down until crispy, about 5-7 minutes, then flip and cook 3 minutes more.
4. Remove chicken and set aside.
5. In a bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter.
6. Pour cornbread batter into the skillet around the chicken thighs.
7. Return chicken to the skillet, placing on top of the batter.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cornbread is golden and chicken is cooked through.

Spicy Chicken Cornbread Muffins

Perfect as snacks or appetizers, these muffins combine tender chicken, spicy jalapeños, and sweet cornbread for a bite-sized delight.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked diced chicken
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)
• 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a muffin tin.
2. In a large bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
5. Fold in chicken, jalapeños, and cheese.
6. Divide batter evenly into muffin cups.
7. Bake 20-25 minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Conclusion

Recipes with cornbread and chicken offer a delicious way to enjoy a classic combination that’s both comforting and versatile. Whether baked as a casserole, cooked in a skillet, or made into muffins, these dishes bring together the best of sweet and savory flavors with satisfying textures.

The ease of preparation and the ability to customize ingredients makes these recipes approachable for cooks of all skill levels.

By incorporating fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices, you can tailor each recipe to your taste preferences, making mealtime exciting and flavorful. From family dinners to casual get-togethers, cornbread and chicken recipes are sure to become favorites in your kitchen, delivering warmth and joy with every bite.

For more delicious meal ideas, check out our Hearty Chicken Stew Recipe, Classic Southern Fried Chicken, and Savory Cornbread Stuffing to complement your culinary journey!

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