Preparing the Dressing
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Bread: Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until lightly golden and dried out. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- Cook Vegetables: In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked vegetables, poultry seasoning, dried sage, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt.
- Add Chicken and Broth: Stir in the shredded chicken and mix well. Gradually add the chicken broth, a little at a time, until the mixture is moist but not soggy. You may not need all of the broth, so add it slowly.
- Add Eggs and Parsley: Stir in the beaten eggs and fresh parsley (if using). Mix until well combined.
Baking the Dressing
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the dressing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or similar-sized ovenproof dish.
- Add Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the dressing.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is heated through. If you prefer a crispier top, you can bake it a little longer or broil it for a few minutes at the end.
Tips for Success
- Bread: Use day-old bread or let fresh bread dry out a bit before cubing. This helps the dressing absorb the broth better without becoming too soggy.
- Broth: Adjust the amount of chicken broth based on the dryness of the bread and your desired consistency. The dressing should be moist but not too wet.
- Flavor Adjustments: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can also add other herbs or spices according to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
- Accompaniments: Serve the chicken dressing alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Gravy: For extra richness, serve with a side of chicken or turkey gravy.
Conclusion
Southern Chicken Dressing is a classic comfort food that brings the warmth and flavor of home cooking to your table. With its savory blend of bread, chicken, and seasonings, it’s sure to be a hit at any family gathering or holiday meal.
This recipe captures the essence of traditional Southern chicken dressing and should bring a touch of nostalgia to your meal. Enjoy!