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Best Chicken Dressing Recipe

Best Chicken Dressing Recipe

This Best Chicken Dressing Recipe is a classic, comforting dish featuring tender cooked chicken, seasoned bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and fresh herbs baked to golden perfection. It’s easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and offers a moist, fluffy texture with a crisp topping. Perfect as a side or main dish for any occasion, this flavorful recipe is a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 8 cups stale or toasted white bread cubes
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 2 cups warm chicken broth
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Bread Cubes: Cut your bread into small cubes and let them dry out overnight or lightly toast them in the oven to ensure the dressing stays fluffy and absorbs the right amount of moisture.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet, melt butter and sauté finely chopped onions and celery until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes, to bring out their natural sweetness and enhance flavor.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the bread cubes, cooked chicken, sautéed vegetables, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Pour in warm chicken broth slowly, stirring gently to moisten evenly without making it soggy.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Transfer the mixture into a buttered baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp.
  5. Let it Rest: Allow the dressing to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully and make it easier to scoop out.

Notes

  • Use day-old or slightly dried bread to prevent soggy dressing.
  • Warm chicken broth helps the bread absorb moisture evenly for best texture.
  • Gently fold ingredients to avoid compacting the dressing.
  • Don’t skimp on butter as it adds rich flavor and moistness.
  • Use fresh herbs over dried for a brighter, more aromatic profile.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken dressing, baked dressing, comfort food, holiday side dish, savory herbs, easy dinner