What is the dressing of chicken?

The “dressing” in chicken and dressing refers to a flavorful mixture of bread, herbs, vegetables, and liquid (usually broth) that’s combined and baked. It's a type of stuffing that accompanies the chicken, often made with ingredients like onions, celery, garlic, and herbs like sage. The dressing absorbs the chicken’s flavors and becomes deliciously moist.

What is traditional dressing made of?

Traditional chicken dressing is typically made from cubed bread (often cornbread or white bread), chicken broth, sautéed onions, celery, garlic, and a blend of fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and parsley. Some recipes also include sausage, giblets, or eggs to add richness and depth. It’s all baked together until golden and crispy on top.

How long should dressing stay in the oven?

Dressing should be baked in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 to 45 minutes . The goal is to achieve a golden, crispy top while ensuring the inside is heated through. If you want a firmer texture, bake it a little longer; for a softer dressing, bake for a shorter time.

How long can you eat chicken and dressing?

Leftovers of chicken and dressing can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days . If frozen, it can last up to 3 months . Just be sure to reheat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before eating to ensure it's safe.

The Best Chicken And Dressing Recipe: Easy & Delicious

Description

Chicken and dressing is a comforting dish that combines tender, flavorful chicken with a savory, herbed bread dressing. Baked to perfection, this dish features a crispy top and a moist interior, making it perfect for holidays, family dinners, or a cozy weeknight meal. Whether you prefer traditional or modern twists, it’s a dish that will satisfy every appetite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

1 whole chicken (or 4–5 chicken breasts/thighs)
4 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon thyme (or rosemary, optional)

For the Dressing:

10 cups cubed bread (white, whole wheat, or cornbread)
1/2 cup butter
1 onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 teaspoons sage
1 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 eggs
2 cups chicken broth (use the chicken broth from cooking the chicken)
1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:
Roast or bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 1 hour or until the meat is tender and easy to shred. Once cooked, remove the skin and bones, then shred the meat. Save the cooking juices to flavor the dressing.
Prepare the Dressing:
Tear the bread into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. Sauté onions, celery, and carrots in butter over medium heat until soft. Add sage, thyme, and black pepper, then pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Mix the Dressing:
Combine the sautéed vegetables and chicken with the bread cubes in the large mixing bowl. Add eggs and mix everything well. Add more chicken broth if needed for moisture.
Bake the Chicken and Dressing:
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.

Notes

Flavor Boosters: Add fresh sage, rosemary, and thyme for an aromatic flavor boost. A sprinkle of parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
Variations: You can experiment with different breads (e.g., sourdough) or add sausage for extra flavor. Try adding fruits like cranberries or apples for a twist!
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15
Category: lunch
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6-8 servings
Calories: 350 per serving
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 20g