Best Chicken Sausage Stuffing Recipe for Your Holiday Table

Key Takeaway

• Chicken sausage stuffing is a flavorful side dish.
• It can be made ahead of time for convenience.
• Different types of bread can be used for a unique taste.

Making Chicken Sausage Stuffing

This recipe swaps pork sausage for chicken sausage in classic stuffing. Using chicken sausage makes the dish lighter while keeping its rich flavor.To start, you’ll need some basic ingredients:

• Bread – Stale bread works best since it soaks up the flavors. White, sourdough, or cornbread are all good options. 
• Chicken sausage – Choose sweet Italian-style chicken sausage for full flavor with less fat. 
• Onions and celery – Diced up, these veggies add crunch and layers of flavor. 
• Fresh herbs – Add sage and thyme for the classic stuffing smell. 
• Chicken broth – This brings everything together and keeps the stuffing moist. Don’t skip it! 

Mix all items until they are evenly distributed in the bowl. Here’s a quick rundown of the easy steps:First, cook the sausage in a skillet until it’s brown and breaks into small pieces. Next, in the same pan, sauté the onions and celery until soft. Transfer to a big bowl and mix in the bread, herbs, and broth until combined.You can prep the mixture up to 24 hours ahead. When ready to bake, transfer to a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake 15 minutes more until the top is crispy.(1)This chicken sausage stuffing is a great side dish for holidays or any meal.

Variations of Chicken Sausage Stuffing

Here are some creative ways to put a spin on classic chicken sausage stuffing:

• Cranberry Surprise – Add 1 cup dried cranberries for sweet and tart taste with the sausage. Their tartness contrasts the savory sausage in a delightful way. Simply stir 1 cup of dried cranberries into the mixed ingredients before baking.
• Spice it Up – Use spicy chicken sausage instead of sweet Italian for a hot taste. The kick of spice will liven your tastebuds! Or for a sweeter twist, try apple chicken sausage. Its subtle sweetness pairs nicely with the traditional stuffing flavors.
• For gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread instead of plain bread.- People with gluten sensitivities can enjoy this stuffing too. Use your favorite gluten-free bread in place of regular bread. Break it into pieces and continue as normal. Most gluten-free breads work well.
• Creamy – Add one can of cream of chicken soup to make it more moist. The creaminess enhances the flavors and gives a more indulgent texture. Delicious!

Try these changes to make the recipe your own unique creation. Try different sausages, mix in cranberries, go gluten-free, or make it creamy. The options are endless for putting your personal spin on chicken sausage stuffing!

Tips for the Best Chicken Sausage Stuffing

Credits : ArnieTex

Here are some tips for making the tastiest chicken sausage stuffing:

• Bread – Stale bread soaks up more juice and stays firm. To make stale bread: dry it in a low oven. If you don’t have stale bread, dry it out in a low oven first. 
• Chop the fresh herbs – Cut sage and thyme into tiny bits. Fresh herbs taste better than dried ones. Make sure to use fresh herbs rather than dried for the best taste. (2) 
• Timing – Mix all items one day early. Keep in fridge with a cover. Just store it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. 
• Check the seasoning – Before baking, taste and add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.Add more salt and herbs than you think you need. Heat makes them taste less strong. 
• Sausage Pick – Try spicy or apple chicken sausage for a flavor twist. Each type of sausage gives a new taste.
• Extra Items – Add dried fruits like cranberries for more taste. Get creative with add-ins.

Paying attention to these details results in a chicken sausage stuffing that is absolutely delicious. The right textures and balanced, robust flavors make this dish a winner.

Serving Chicken Sausage Stuffing

Serve chicken sausage stuffing with these foods. Here are some tasty ways to serve it:

• The Classic Combo – You can’t go wrong pairing stuffing with roasted turkey, especially for holidays like Thanksgiving. (3) The savory, hearty stuffing is the perfect complement to juicy turkey. Scoop it alongside sliced turkey for a traditional meal.
• Comfort Food Bliss – Add mashed potatoes and gravy on the side. The smooth texture of the potatoes balances the crunchy bits in the stuffing for comfort food heaven. Drizzle on some gravy to take it over the top.
• Sweet and Savory – Serve with sweet potatoes for mix of sweet and salty tastes. The combo of colors on the plate is appealing too. It’s a simple way to liven up the usual stuffing pairing.
• Gravy Section – Pour warm turkey gravy on top for more taste. The gravy adds so much moisture and flavor. Use leftover turkey drippings or a store-bought gravy for easy preparation.

Chicken sausage stuffing is endlessly adaptable as a side. Pair it with all your holiday favorites or everyday meals to bring joy to any plate!

Storing Leftover Chicken Sausage Stuffing

Leftover chicken sausage stuffing can easily be enjoyed later if stored properly. Here are some helpful tips:

• Cool First – Before putting it away, allow the stuffing to come to room temperature. Let cool to stop wet spots in the box.
• Pack Well  – Transfer the cooled stuffing to an airtight container or ziplock plastic bag. This keeps it fresh and avoids fridge odors from seeping in. 
• Keep Cold – Place the sealed stuffing in the refrigerator. It will keep for 2-3 days stored this way. 
• Heat Up – When ready to eat, reheat the stuffing fully. Use the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave in a covered dish. This restores the texture and flavor.(4) 

Following these simple steps, leftover chicken sausage stuffing can be enjoyed again later in the week. The airtight storage prevents drying out while refrigeration keeps it safe to eat. Heat makes it warm and fresh again.

FAQ

What’s the best way to prepare chicken sausage stuffing as a holiday side dish?

Start by preheating the oven and gathering your ingredients. Use a large bowl to mix torn bread cubes, diced onion, and celery. Cook chicken sausage in a skillet over medium heat, removing casings if needed. Add fresh herbs like sage and thyme for extra flavor. Mix well with olive oil and your bread mixture. Transfer to a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake until golden. This versatile side dish works perfectly for Thanksgiving or any holiday meal.

How long does it take to make homemade sausage stuffing from scratch?

Preparing sausage stuffing is easier than you might think! Total time typically ranges from 45 to 60 minutes, with prep time around 15 to 20 minutes and cook time about 30 to 40 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to gently stir ingredients in a large bowl. Whether you’re using cornbread, white bread, or sourdough, the key is to prepare your bread cubes ahead of time. Room-temperature ingredients mix well and create a more flavorful stuffing.

Can I make stuffing gluten-free and customize it with different sausage types?

Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread or cornbread instead of traditional white bread. You can swap pork sausage for chicken sausage, trying sweet Italian or spicy varieties. Add fresh sage, dried cranberries, or sweet potatoes to create your own unique recipe. Store-bought stuffing mix can be a quick alternative if you’re short on time. Always check ingredient labels to ensure gluten-free status.

What are some tips for achieving the perfect stuffing texture and flavor?

Use stale bread for the best texture – it absorbs flavors better. Dice onion and celery finely, and cook them gently to release their flavors. Add garlic cloves for depth. A rimmed baking sheet helps crisp the edges. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and poultry seasoning. For extra moisture, use chicken broth or cream of chicken soup. A casserole dish works great for even cooking.

How do I store and reheat leftover stuffing safely?

Store leftover stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It typically keeps for 3 to 4 days. To reheat, cover with aluminum foil and warm in the oven at medium heat. Add a splash of chicken stock or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid leaving it at room temperature for more than two hours. For best quality, consume within a few days and always ensure it’s heated thoroughly before serving.

How do you make a savory stuffing with mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce?

Combine your favorite bread stuffing with creamy mashed potatoes for a unique twist. Use torn bread pieces or cornbread as a base, and mix in turkey gravy for extra richness. Add chopped parsley and a side of cranberry sauce to brighten the dish. For serving, consider using a quart casserole dish to create an impressive presentation. This method works great for Thanksgiving or holiday meals, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will impress your guests.

What cooking techniques work best for creating a flavorful herb stuffing?

Start by cooking sausage gently in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove casings and add diced yellow onion, cooking until soft. Use a wooden spoon to stir in fresh and dried sage, thyme, and other fresh herbs. Pour the mixture into a baking dish, adding chicken stock for moisture. Bake for 30 minutes, covered with aluminum foil, then uncover to get a crispy top. This method ensures a flavorful chicken or turkey stuffing that’s both savory and aromatic.

Can you suggest alternatives for traditional bread in stuffing recipes?

Experiment with different bread types like sourdough, French bread, or cornbread for unique stuffing variations. For gluten-free options, use specialty bread or try sweet potatoes as a base. Add apple sausage or spicy Italian sausage for extra flavor. If using store-bought bread, let it go slightly stale to better absorb seasonings. A rimmed baking sheet helps create crispy edges, while unsalted butter adds richness to your stuffing mixture.

How can I manage saturated fat and nutrition in my stuffing recipe?

Balance flavor and health by using lean chicken sausage instead of pork sausage. Choose whole-grain bread or cornbread for added nutrition. Reduce butter and olive oil quantities, and incorporate more vegetables like celery and garlic cloves. Use chicken broth to add moisture without excess fat. A recipe card can help track ingredients and serving sizes. Consider adding chopped parsley or dried cranberries for extra flavor and nutrients without significant fat content.

Conclusion

In conclusion, chicken sausage stuffing is a delicious side dish that everyone can enjoy. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it can be made for any special occasion. It’s perfect for holiday meals, and the leftovers are great too! This stuffing will surely be a hit at the dinner table.

References 

1. https://coloradoavidcyclist.com/food/keep-it-thin-with-this-chicken-sausage-stuffing-recipe/
2. https://mealsheelsandcocktails.com/2019/11/24/herbed-chicken-sausage-stuffing/
3. https://www.onceuponachef.com/recipes/sausage-herb-stuffing.html
4. https://www.healthygallatin.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/FSHstuffing.pdf

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• https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-dressing-recipe/ 
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Mary R. Q.

I’m Mary R. Q. , a seasoned professional chef dedicated to elevating home cooking experiences. Through my expertise in the culinary arts, I provide practical cooking tips and insightful reviews of kitchen utensils on my blog, milkwoodrestaurant.com. As a passionate advocate for transforming everyday meals into extraordinary culinary adventures, I aim to empower home cooks with the knowledge and tools they need to create delicious and memorable dishes. I’m also an author of the book “1,001 Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Helpful Hints for Cooking, Baking, and Cleaning (1,001 Tips & Tricks)” which is sold on Amazon. Join me on a flavorful journey as we explore the art of cooking and the essential tools that make it a joy.