BBQ Chicken Cornbread Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to BBQ Chicken Cornbread Casserole
Welcome to a delicious and comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table: BBQ Chicken Cornbread Casserole! This delightful casserole combines tender ground chicken with zesty barbecue sauce, topped with a golden cornbread layer that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser.
A Personal Story Behind My BBQ Chicken Cornbread Casserole Journey
Growing up, my family had a tradition of coming together for hearty meals that fostered connection and joy. One of the standout dishes from those gatherings was a cornbread casserole, but I wanted to put my own spin on it. By adding barbecue chicken, I created a recipe that not only honors my childhood memories but also introduces a new favorite for my family. Each bite evokes nostalgia while offering a fresh and exciting flavor profile!
What Makes This BBQ Chicken Cornbread Casserole Recipe Special?
This BBQ Chicken Cornbread Casserole stands out for its unique combination of flavors and textures. The savory ground chicken, savory vegetables, and tangy barbecue sauce meld wonderfully, while the cornbread topping provides a delightful contrast with its fluffy, slightly sweet texture. It’s a complete meal that’s simple to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the company of loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily modify it to suit your taste preferences!
The Full BBQ Chicken Cornbread Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/3 cup sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×9 baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures your casserole doesn’t stick!
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground chicken, chopped onion, and green bell pepper for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
- Add the barbecue sauce and tomato sauce to the skillet. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This step helps to blend the flavors beautifully.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, milk, flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, egg, and melted butter until smooth. This will be your cornbread layer.
- Layer the cooked chicken mixture in the prepared baking dish, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese, and then spread the cornbread mixture on top evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it, as oven times may vary.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit for easier slicing.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for BBQ Chicken Cornbread Casserole
This casserole is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a fresh green salad or some grilled vegetables on the side. For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture before baking. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy twist. This dish is perfect for potlucks, and leftovers can be easily reheated for a quick lunch!
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chicken Cornbread Casserole
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that works well in this recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before or after baking. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and then bake as directed.
BBQ Chicken Cornbread Casserole
Equipment
- 9x9 baking dish For baking the casserole.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 0.5 cup yellow onion, chopped
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 15 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 0.5 cup yellow cornmeal
- 0.5 cup whole milk
- 0.5 cup flour
- 0.33 cup sugar
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9x9 baking dish with cooking spray. This ensures your casserole doesn’t stick!
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground chicken, chopped onion, and green bell pepper for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
- Add the barbecue sauce and tomato sauce to the skillet. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This step helps to blend the flavors beautifully.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, milk, flour, sugar, salt, baking powder, egg, and melted butter until smooth. This will be your cornbread layer.
- Layer the cooked chicken mixture in the prepared baking dish, followed by the shredded cheddar cheese, and then spread the cornbread mixture on top evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it, as oven times may vary.
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit for easier slicing.