One-Pot Chicken and Stuffing: A Cozy Favorite for Every Family Table
Picture this: a chilly evening, the sun dipping below the horizon, and the warm glow of your kitchen lights peeking through the windows. The comforting scent of herbs mingles with the savory aroma of roasted chicken, and a delicious anticipation fills the air as you prepare a meal that promises to bring everyone together. This is the magic of One-Pot Chicken and Stuffing, a dish that not only satisfies hungry bellies but also warms the heart.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You may wonder why this particular one-pot wonder has become a staple in so many homes. Let me share with you a few reasons that will have you reaching for your apron:
- Convenience: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze.
- Time-Saving: Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful and Comforting: The blend of tender chicken and savory stuffing creates a cozy meal that feels like a warm hug.
- Versatile: Perfect for any season, it can easily transition from humble weeknight dinner to festive family gathering.
- Brings Families Together: There’s something special about sharing a homemade meal that creates lasting memories.
Ingredients with Notes
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting dish, along with some tips to personalize it:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful; you can swap with boneless chicken if preferred.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For that initial sear; feel free to use butter for added richness.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Homemade is best, but store-bought works too.
- 1 package stuffing mix (6 oz): Choose your favorite brand or make your own for a homemade touch.
- 1 cup diced celery: Adds crunch and freshness; can substitute with diced bell peppers.
- 1/2 cup diced onion: Builds flavor; green onions offer a nice twist.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Fresh minced garlic can elevate the dish even more.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: This herb adds a lovely earthiness.
- Salt and pepper: To taste; always fresh ground for the best flavor.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional): Adds color and sweetness; they can be omitted or replaced with another vegetable.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
This quick and easy one-pot dinner means you can spend more time at the table and less standing at the stove.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
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Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down, searing until golden brown (about 5 minutes). Flip, and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add diced onion and celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
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Prepare the Stuffing: Stir in the stuffing mix, dried thyme, and chicken broth. Mix well, ensuring all ingredients are combined, and allow it to simmer for about 1-2 minutes until the stuffing absorbs some liquid.
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Combine Chicken and Stuffing: Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the stuffing mixture. Cover the pot with a lid or foil.
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Bake: Transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes.
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Add Peas: Remove from the oven, sprinkle peas over the dish, and return to the oven uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the peas to warm through.
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Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Then, dig in! The chicken should be juicy, with stuffing that perfectly soaks up all the flavors.
Tips and Variations
- Healthier Swaps: Use skinless chicken to reduce fat; swap regular stuffing for whole grain.
- Seasonal Variations: Try adding diced apples for a touch of sweetness in the fall or swap herbs seasonally for freshness.
- Flavor Upgrades: A splash of white wine or a dash of balsamic vinegar can elevate the flavor of your broth.
Serving Ideas
This delightful one-pot chicken and stuffing is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Pair it with a fresh side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. It’s equally ideal for holiday gatherings, where you can add cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie for a complete festive feast. Enjoy with a glass of crispy white wine or a warm apple cider for a perfect evening.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers? No problem! Store any uneaten chicken and stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze portions for later; just make sure to thaw fully in the fridge before reheating.
Chef’s Pro Tips
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in juicy flavors.
- Herb Freshness: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the dish just before serving for brightness.
- Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the chicken not only adds flavor but also keeps the meat tender and juicy.
FAQs
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Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but keep in mind breasts may dry out if overcooked. Adjust baking time accordingly. -
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the pot, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve, adding about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time. -
What can I substitute for stuffing mix?
You can make your own with day-old bread, herbs, and broth; the flavor will be even more homemade. -
Is this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free stuffing mix to accommodate dietary restrictions. -
What other vegetables can I add?
Carrots, green beans, or mushrooms are excellent additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
I invite you to experience the heartwarming joy of One-Pot Chicken and Stuffing in your own home. This dish is more than a meal; it’s a celebration of connection, comfort, and love shared around the table. So gather your family, create lasting memories, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones, as it may just become their new favorite too. Happy cooking!
Contents
One-Pot Chicken and Stuffing
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs Juicy and flavorful; you can swap with boneless chicken if preferred.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For that initial sear; feel free to use butter for added richness.
For the stuffing
- 1 cup chicken broth Homemade is best, but store-bought works too.
- 1 package stuffing mix (6 oz) Choose your favorite brand or make your own for a homemade touch.
- 1 cup diced celery Adds crunch and freshness; can substitute with diced bell peppers.
- 1/2 cup diced onion Builds flavor; green onions offer a nice twist.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh minced garlic can elevate the dish even more.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme This herb adds a lovely earthiness.
- to taste Salt and pepper Always fresh ground for the best flavor.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional) Adds color and sweetness; can be omitted or replaced with another vegetable.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Searing the Chicken
- In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken thighs skin-side down, searing until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
- Flip, and cook for an additional 3 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add diced onion and celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
Preparing the Stuffing
- Stir in the stuffing mix, dried thyme, and chicken broth. Mix well, ensuring all ingredients are combined, and allow it to simmer for about 1-2 minutes until the stuffing absorbs some liquid.
Combining Chicken and Stuffing
- Nestle the seared chicken thighs on top of the stuffing mixture. Cover the pot with a lid or foil.
Baking
- Transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20 minutes.
Adding Peas
- Remove from the oven, sprinkle peas over the dish, and return to the oven uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the peas to warm through.
Serving
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Then, dig in! The chicken should be juicy, with stuffing that perfectly soaks up all the flavors.