What You’ll Need:
- 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, and rosemary)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Prepare the Stuffing
Start by preparing the stuffing for your chicken. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs, minced garlic, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Clean and Stuff the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Clean the chicken thoroughly, removing any giblets or excess fat from the cavity. Pat dry with paper towels. Season the inside of the chicken with salt and pepper. Take the prepared stuffing and stuff it into the cavity of the chicken. Make sure not to overstuff, as the chicken will expand during cooking.
Step 3: Truss the Chicken
Trussing the chicken helps it cook evenly and maintain its shape. Start by tying the legs together with kitchen twine. Then, tuck the wings under the chicken and secure them with additional twine. This will create a neat package that will bake evenly.
Step 4: Season the Chicken
Brush the outside of the chicken with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor and help create a crispy golden skin.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
Place the prepared chicken on a roasting pan or baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the chicken with pan juices every 30 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
Step 6: Let it Rest
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and succulent chicken.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Carve the baked stuffed chicken into slices and serve it alongside your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes. The flavorful stuffing and moist chicken will surely impress your guests and make for a memorable meal.
There you have it! A step-by-step guide to cooking a delicious baked stuffed chicken in the oven. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try and enjoy the flavors and aromas that will fill your kitchen!