Stuffed Chicken Thighs
Juicy stuffed chicken thighs filled with a savory bacon, celery, and onion mixture, perfect for hearty family dinners or entertaining guests with rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a small pan over low heat until crisp, about 10 minutes.
- Remove bacon, crumble, and set aside.
- Pour off drippings, reserving 2 tablespoons for later.
- Add celery and onion to the drippings in the pan.
- Saute for 5 minutes or until vegetables are soft.
- Remove from heat and stir in sherry, poultry seasoning, 1/8 teaspoon pepper, bread crumbs, and bacon.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Stuff the mixture into the boned chicken thighs, then sew or secure with toothpicks.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until chicken is cooked through, about 30-40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using homemade bread crumbs or a mix of herbs in your stuffing. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute turkey bacon for traditional bacon. Ensure the chicken thighs are well-sealed with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the stuffing from leaking during baking. For a twist, you can also incorporate ingredients like spinach or feta cheese into the stuffing mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these stuffed chicken thighs alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. They also pair well with mashed potatoes or a creamy risotto. For a comforting twist, consider serving them with a side of Chicken Casserole - The Best for a heartwarming dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed chicken thighs should be cooled to room temperature before being stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the thighs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they remain moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Chicken Thighs contains roughly 65 calories, with 4g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (15% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs, but be aware that they may dry out more quickly. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, checking for doneness at around 25-30 minutes. Consider wrapping the breasts with bacon to retain moisture and enhance flavor.
What can I serve with stuffed chicken thighs?
Stuffed chicken thighs pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving with steamed green beans or a light salad for freshness. A creamy garlic mashed potato or a side of Rice And Hamburger Casserole can complement the savory stuffing beautifully.
Can I freeze stuffed chicken thighs?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked stuffed chicken thighs for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and adjust cooking time as needed when baking from frozen.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).