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Best Chicken Dressing Recipe

Best Chicken Dressing Recipe
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This Best Chicken Dressing Recipe is a comforting, flavorful side dish combining tender herbs, savory cooked chicken, buttery bread, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for holiday feasts or cozy family dinners, it’s easy to prepare, versatile, and customizable to fit dietary needs while delivering a moist, tender texture with a golden, crispy top.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 6 cups day-old bread, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1 cup diced onion
  • 3 tablespoons fresh butter
  • 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 to 3 cups warm chicken broth
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Optional Variations

  • Gluten-free bread substitute for bread
  • Rosemary and marjoram instead of thyme and sage (2 teaspoons each)
  • Cooked and crumbled sausage (about 1/2 cup) for added smokiness
  • Vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for vegetarian version
  • Mushrooms (1 cup diced) for vegetarian version
  • Toasted pecans or dried cranberries (1/2 cup) for crunch and sweetness

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread: Cut your day-old bread into bite-sized cubes and spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Toast lightly in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until slightly crisp but still tender inside, about 10 minutes. This will help the bread absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
  2. Cook the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add diced onion and celery and cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. These aromatics form the flavor base of the dressing.
  3. Combine Chicken and Herbs: Stir the cooked shredded chicken into the skillet along with the fresh sage, thyme, and parsley. Mix well to infuse the mixture with savory herb flavors.
  4. Mix and Moisturize: Transfer the toasted bread cubes into a large mixing bowl. Pour the chicken and vegetable mixture on top. Gradually add warm chicken broth one cup at a time, stirring gently after each addition until the bread is evenly moistened but not soggy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Grease a baking dish and transfer the dressing mixture into it. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to achieve a golden, crispy top. Remove from oven and let rest briefly before serving.

Notes

  • Use stale or day-old bread to ensure perfect texture and absorption without mushiness.
  • Add broth slowly to avoid over-moistening the mixture.
  • Fresh herbs offer brighter, more vibrant flavors compared to dried.
  • Customize the dressing with your favorite extras like nuts, sausage, or dried fruit.
  • Cover with foil while baking to retain moisture until the last few minutes for a crisp top.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken dressing, stuffing, herb dressing, holiday side dish, baked dressing, savory bread dressing

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/best-chicken-dressing-recipe/