Thanksgiving wouldn't be the same without the comforting aroma of roasted chicken and savory dressing. This recipe simplifies the traditional preparation, making it achievable for even the busiest cooks while still delivering incredible flavor. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times – this easy chicken and dressing recipe prioritizes delicious results with minimal fuss.
What is Chicken and Dressing?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's clarify the dish. Chicken and dressing (also known as chicken and stuffing, depending on your region) is a classic American comfort food, traditionally served at Thanksgiving. It features a roasted chicken, whose juices and pan drippings infuse a bread-based stuffing, creating a moist and flavorful side dish.
Easy Chicken and Dressing Recipe: Ingredients
This recipe focuses on simplicity and deliciousness. You can easily adjust ingredient quantities based on your needs.
For the Chicken:
- 1 (4-5 pound) whole chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
For the Dressing:
- 1 loaf (16 ounces) crusty bread, cubed and dried (day-old bread works best!)
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Easy Chicken and Dressing Recipe: Instructions
Roasting the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub the olive oil, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary all over the chicken.
- Place the chicken in a roasting pan and roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the thigh registers 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your chicken.
Making the Dressing:
- While the chicken is roasting, prepare the dressing. In a large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, celery, and onion.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, melted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and gently toss to combine. Ensure the bread is evenly moistened but not soggy.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving.
Combining Chicken and Dressing:
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While the chicken rests, you can either:
- Bake the dressing separately: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the dressing mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
- Stuff the chicken (optional): Carefully loosen the skin from the chicken breast and gently spoon some of the dressing mixture under the skin. Place the remaining dressing in a separate baking dish. Roast both for another 15-20 minutes. Caution: Stuffing the chicken adds to the cooking time and may not be fully cooked if stuffed before roasting.
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Carve the chicken and serve with the delicious, flavorful dressing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different herbs and spices in the dressing?
Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite herbs and spices. Sage, parsley, and marjoram all pair well with chicken and dressing.
What if my bread isn't completely dry?
Slightly damp bread is fine, but excessively moist bread will result in a soggy dressing. You can dry it out slightly in a low oven (200°F/95°C) for 10-15 minutes before adding the wet ingredients.
Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing ingredients a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine them just before baking.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. This guarantees the chicken is safe to eat.
Can I use leftover cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use leftover cooked chicken to make the dressing. Simply shred or chop it and add it to the dressing mixture.
Tips for the Best Easy Chicken and Dressing
- Use good quality bread: The bread is the foundation of the dressing, so using a flavorful crusty bread will make a big difference.
- Don't overmix the dressing: Gently toss the ingredients to combine; overmixing can make the dressing dense.
- Let the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before carving helps the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird.
- Taste and adjust seasonings: Adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your preference.
This easy chicken and dressing recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for Thanksgiving or any occasion when you crave comfort food. Enjoy!
