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Creamed Chicken on Cornbread: A Southern Comfort Classic

The aroma of cornbread baking in the oven instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen. I remember sitting at her worn, wooden table, watching her effortlessly whip up this very dish. The fluffy, slightly sweet cornbread, topped with creamy, savory chicken, was the epitome of comfort food. It was a meal that warmed not just our bellies, but our hearts as well, and now I’m so excited to share that same comforting experience with you.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8
Dietary Type: Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Cornbread:

1 cup yellow cornmeal
1 cup flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 cup milk
¼ cup shortening or ¼ cup butter, melted

For the Creamed Chicken:

2 teaspoons butter
2 ½ tablespoons flour
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon pepper
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup milk
3 cups cooked chicken, cubed

Equipment Needed

8″ square baking pan
Mixing bowls
Saucepan
Whisk

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking pan thoroughly. This prevents the cornbread from sticking and ensures easy removal.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well combined. This ensures even distribution of the baking powder, which is crucial for a light and fluffy cornbread.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough cornbread.
Stir in the melted shortening or butter until just incorporated. The melted butter adds a richness and depth of flavor to the cornbread.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The cornbread should be golden brown on top.
While the cornbread is baking, prepare the creamed chicken. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour, nutmeg, salt, and pepper until a smooth paste forms. This is called a roux, and it’s the base for our creamy sauce.
Gradually stir in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
Add the milk and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Gently fold in the cubed cooked chicken and heat through.
Once the cornbread is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly.
Cut the cornbread into squares and top each square with a generous portion of the creamed chicken. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips & Tricks

For an even richer cornbread, substitute half of the milk with buttermilk. The acidity in buttermilk helps to tenderize the cornbread.
If you don’t have shortening or butter on hand, you can use vegetable oil as a substitute. However, butter will provide the best flavor.
To prevent lumps in the creamed chicken sauce, make sure the butter is fully melted before adding the flour. Whisk vigorously as you add the broth to ensure a smooth sauce.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the creamed chicken for a little kick.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with cooked mushrooms or other vegetables of your choice.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the creamed chicken on cornbread immediately for the best flavor and texture. The warm, creamy chicken pairs perfectly with the slightly sweet cornbread. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Leftover creamed chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to thin the sauce.

Leftover cornbread can also be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	333.3 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	133 g	40%
Total Fat	14.8 g	22%
Saturated Fat	5 g	24%
Cholesterol	76.9 mg	25%
Sodium	898.9 mg	37%
Total Carbohydrate	29.3 g	9%
Dietary Fiber	1.7 g	6%
Sugars	0.4 g	1%
Protein	20.3 g	40%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Variations & Substitutions

Spicy Creamed Chicken: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the creamed chicken for a spicy kick.
Creamed Turkey on Cornbread: Substitute the cooked chicken with cooked turkey for a delicious variation, especially after Thanksgiving.
Creamed Ham on Cornbread: Use diced ham instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Cornbread: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of the regular flour in the cornbread recipe.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sauteed mushrooms, peas, or other vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make the cornbread ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can bake the cornbread a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I use canned chicken for this recipe?
A: While fresh or leftover cooked chicken is preferred for best flavor and texture, canned chicken can be used in a pinch. Be sure to drain it well.

Q: How can I make the creamed chicken thicker?
A: If the creamed chicken is not thick enough, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce. Cook for a minute or two until thickened.

Q: Can I freeze leftover creamed chicken?
A: While you can freeze leftover creamed chicken, the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to consume it fresh for the best quality.

Q: What can I serve with Creamed Chicken on Cornbread?
A: Creamed Chicken on Cornbread is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed green beans.

Final Thoughts

Creamed Chicken on Cornbread is more than just a recipe; it’s a taste of nostalgia, a warm embrace on a cold day, and a reminder of simpler times. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the comfort and joy it brings. Feel free to adapt it to your own preferences and share your creations with friends and family. Bon appétit!

Creamed Chicken on Cornbread Recipe