Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that evokes the warmth of Southern hospitality? Then look no further! This recipe, inspired by the queen of Southern cooking herself, Paula Deen, offers a delightful twist on classic chicken and dressing. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – delicious, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make, even for those new to the kitchen. Get ready to experience a taste of the South, right in your own home! This recipe is perfect for a quick dinner idea or a special occasion. It’s also a great way to enjoy healthy meals without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (16-ounce) package cornbread stuffing mix
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken pieces, ensuring they're evenly coated.
- Place the chicken pieces in a baking dish.
Making the Dressing:
- While the oven preheats, sauté the chopped onion and celery in the butter until softened. This adds a lovely depth of flavor to your dressing.
- In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, and cornbread stuffing mix. If using, add pecans/walnuts and parsley now. Mix well until evenly moistened.
- Spoon the dressing mixture around the chicken pieces in the baking dish.
Baking and Serving:
- Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork. The dressing will be golden brown and heated through.
- Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before carving and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.
Cooking Tips for Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the spice mixture.
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish; ensure the chicken pieces have enough space for even cooking.
- If you prefer a crispier chicken skin, broil the chicken for the last 5 minutes of cooking time. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick or some thyme for an earthy aroma.
Variations:
- Sausage and Apple Dressing: Add 1 pound of cooked sausage (removed from casings) and 1 cup of diced apples to the dressing for a hearty twist.
- Cranberry Chicken and Dressing: Stir in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the dressing for a festive holiday touch.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with firm tofu or vegetables like butternut squash and mushrooms. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 (This will vary depending on the size of the chicken and the ingredients used). This dish provides a good source of protein and fiber. Nutritional information is an estimate and should be used as a general guideline.
This easy recipe is perfect for a delicious weeknight meal, a comforting weekend lunch, or a special occasion dinner. Enjoy the wonderful flavors of this Southern-inspired classic – you won't be disappointed! Remember, cooking should be enjoyable, so don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!