Are you craving a taste of the South? Then look no further! This chicken dressing recipe is a comforting classic, perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any day you want a warm, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Forget dry, bland stuffing – this recipe delivers moist, herbaceous chicken dressing that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, and surprisingly easy to make! This recipe is packed with flavor and is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 6 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown slightly. This step builds a flavorful base for your dressing.
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Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables, shredded chicken, thyme, sage, poultry seasoning, and black pepper.
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Add the bread: Gently fold in the cubed bread, making sure it's evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
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Moisten the dressing: Pour in the chicken broth and melted butter, mixing gently until the bread is moistened but not soggy. Don't overmix; a little texture is desirable.
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Bake: Transfer the dressing to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. The baking time might vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on it.
Tips for the Best Chicken Dressing:
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Use day-old bread: Day-old bread is ideal because it absorbs the liquid better, resulting in a moister dressing. If you only have fresh bread, you can lightly toast it in the oven before using it.
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Don't overmix: Overmixing can result in a dense and gummy dressing. Gently fold the ingredients together to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
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Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. Some people prefer a more intense sage flavor, while others might add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder.
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Make it ahead: You can prepare the dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Variations:
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Cranberry Chicken Dressing: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the mixture for a sweet and tart twist.
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Wild Rice Chicken Dressing: Incorporate 1 cup of cooked wild rice for added texture and nutrition.
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Sausage Chicken Dressing: Brown 1 pound of sausage with the vegetables for a richer, more savory flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 25-30g
This easy recipe for Southern-style chicken dressing is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a quick dinner idea that’s also healthy, full of flavor, and guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!