Chicken and Stove Top Stuffing Recipe: A Flavorful & Easy Thanksgiving Side Dish
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and what's a Thanksgiving feast without the classic stove top stuffing? This recipe elevates the traditional dish with juicy chicken, creating a hearty and flavorful side that your guests will adore. Let's dive into this simple yet impressive recipe!
Ingredients You'll Need
This recipe is designed for ease and deliciousness. Gather these ingredients:
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For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds a delicious depth of flavor)
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For the Stuffing:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 (6-ounce) package stove top stuffing mix
- ½ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, but adds a lovely fresh touch)
- ¼ cup butter, melted (optional, for extra richness)
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Culinary Journey
Follow these steps to create a Thanksgiving side dish your family will rave about:
1. Preparing the Chicken: The Foundation of Flavor
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the cubed chicken, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside.
2. Building the Stuffing: Layering the Flavors
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and celery until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds the base flavor profile of the stuffing.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Gradually stir in the stove top stuffing mix according to package directions. You might need to adjust the amount of broth slightly depending on the desired consistency.
- Stir in the cooked chicken, parsley (if using), and melted butter (if using).
3. The Final Touches: Bringing it all Together
- Once the stuffing is cooked through and heated, remove from heat and fluff with a fork.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed (you might want a little extra salt or pepper).
4. Serving Suggestions: Presentation Matters!
- Serve the chicken and stove top stuffing hot as a side dish alongside your Thanksgiving turkey or other main courses. Consider garnishing with a sprig of fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for an extra touch of visual appeal.
Tips and Variations: Elevate Your Stuffing Game
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a kick.
- Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped pecans, walnuts, or cranberries for added texture.
- Herbs galore: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, sage, or rosemary to customize the flavor.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the stuffing ahead of time and reheat it gently before serving.
This recipe is a fantastic starting point; feel free to experiment with different ingredients and seasonings to make it your own! Happy cooking, and Happy Thanksgiving!
