Are you craving a warm, comforting dish that's both delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This simple chicken dressing recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a delightful Sunday supper. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this version is quick, straightforward, and delivers incredible flavor. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this classic, elevated for the modern cook.
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tsp dried sage
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 4 cups cubed bread (day-old bread works best!)
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Get started: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your chicken dressing will be perfectly cooked and golden brown.
Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the mushrooms and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and begin to brown slightly. This step builds a delicious base of flavor for your chicken dressing.
Cook the chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides. Season with sage, thyme, and black pepper. Ensure the chicken is cooked through before proceeding. Quick tip: using cubed chicken ensures even cooking and faster prep time.
Add the broth and bread: Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing the flavors to meld. Gently stir in the cubed bread, ensuring it's evenly moistened. This prevents dry spots in your final dish.
Bake to perfection: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dressing is golden brown and heated through. The baking process creates a lovely crust on top and ensures the bread is perfectly moist.
Finishing touch: Remove from the oven and stir in the fresh parsley. Season with salt to taste. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, perfectly complementing the savory flavors.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Use chicken broth made from scratch or add a tablespoon of butter to the skillet before sautéing the vegetables.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Make it vegetarian: Replace the chicken with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled firm tofu.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This simple chicken dressing recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy! This is a delicious example of homemade cooking that's perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. It's among the best recipes for its ease and flavorful result. You'll be making this again and again!