This recipe elevates the classic comfort food of baked chicken and stuffing to new heights. Forget dry, bland chicken and soggy stuffing – this method ensures juicy, flavorful chicken and perfectly textured stovetop stuffing, all cooked together in one pan for easy cleanup. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a delicious and satisfying meal your whole family will love.
What's the Best Way to Keep Chicken Moist When Baking?
Keeping chicken moist when baking is crucial for a tender and juicy result. The key is to ensure the chicken doesn't overcook. Brining the chicken beforehand is a fantastic way to lock in moisture. Simply submerge the chicken in a saltwater solution for several hours (or overnight) before baking. Another tip is to use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it's cooked through without drying it out. Finally, basting the chicken with pan juices or a flavorful sauce during baking helps keep it moist and adds incredible flavor.
How Do I Make Stove Top Stuffing That's Not Soggy?
Soggy stuffing is a common problem, but easily avoidable. The trick is to ensure the stuffing isn't overloaded with moisture. Start with bread that's slightly stale; this helps it absorb less liquid during cooking. Don't over-mix the stuffing ingredients; a slightly crumbly texture is ideal. Adding sauteed vegetables like onions, celery, and mushrooms helps to create a dryer stuffing. Finally, cooking the stuffing on the stovetop before adding it to the baking dish allows some of the moisture to evaporate, preventing sogginess. Consider adding herbs and spices for extra flavor – sage, thyme, and rosemary are classic choices.
Can I Use Leftover Cooked Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! Using leftover cooked chicken is a great way to speed up the cooking process and reduce food waste. Simply shred or dice the cooked chicken and add it to the stuffing mixture before baking. The baking process will heat the chicken through and combine the flavors beautifully. Keep in mind that the cooking time will be significantly reduced since the chicken is already cooked.
What are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with Baked Chicken and Stove Top Stuffing?
The beauty of this dish is its versatility. A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and stuffing. Roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts add color and extra nutrients. Mashed potatoes or sweet potato casserole offer creamy comfort. For a lighter option, consider a side of steamed green beans or asparagus.
What are the Different Types of Stuffing?
Stuffing, or dressing (the difference being whether it's cooked inside or outside the bird), comes in many variations depending on regional preferences and personal tastes. You'll find classic bread-based stuffings, wild rice stuffings, cornbread stuffings, and even variations incorporating sausage, oysters, or cranberries. The key is to choose ingredients that complement the main course and your individual taste.
Recipe: Baked Chicken with Stove Top Stuffing
This recipe yields 4 servings and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and cook.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 3-4 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup bread cubes (slightly stale is best)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Brown the chicken on all sides.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion and celery until softened.
- Add the bread cubes, chicken broth, sage, and thyme. Stir to combine.
- Arrange the stuffing around the chicken in the skillet.
- Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C) and the stuffing is golden brown.
- Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade baked chicken with stovetop stuffing! Remember to adjust seasonings to your liking. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
