Chicken with Stuffing & Gravy (Homestyle Chicken Dinner)
Nothing beats the comforting flavors of a homestyle chicken dinner with golden roasted chicken, flavorful stuffing, and rich, savory gravy. This classic recipe brings together tender, juicy chicken with a perfectly seasoned bread stuffing and homemade gravy that ties the dish together. Ideal for family dinners or a cozy weekend meal, it delivers a hearty, satisfying experience in every bite. The recipe is straightforward, using everyday ingredients, yet it feels special enough for holiday gatherings. Preparing the stuffing inside the chicken or alongside it allows the flavors to meld beautifully, while the homemade gravy ensures no part of the meal is left dry.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Resting Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
1 whole chicken (about 4 lbs / 1.8 kg)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
For the Stuffing:
4 cups bread cubes (preferably day-old or lightly toasted)
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 celery stalks, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1 tsp dried sage
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup chicken broth (more if needed)
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For the Gravy:
2 tbsp pan drippings or butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: splash of heavy cream for richness
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Rinse the chicken and pat dry; rub with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary.
Prepare the stuffing: melt butter in a skillet over medium heat, sauté onion, celery, and garlic until soft.
In a large bowl, combine sautéed vegetables with bread cubes, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, parsley, and enough chicken broth to moisten.
Stuff the chicken cavity loosely with the prepared stuffing; do not overpack. Tie the legs with kitchen twine.
Place the chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up, and roast for 1–1.25 hours, basting occasionally with pan juices, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove the chicken from the oven and tent with foil; let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
For the gravy: pour pan drippings into a saucepan, add butter if needed, whisk in flour, and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually add chicken broth while whisking until smooth. Simmer until thickened and season to taste.
Carve the chicken and serve with stuffing.
Pour gravy over chicken and stuffing just before serving.
Tips
Use day-old bread for stuffing to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Do not overstuff the chicken; stuffing expands while cooking.
Baste the chicken occasionally to keep the skin golden and moist.
Let the chicken rest before carving to retain juices.
Roast at 375°F for even cooking; higher heat may dry out the chicken.
Add a splash of white wine or apple cider to the pan for extra flavor in the drippings.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
For crispy skin, pat the chicken dry before seasoning.
Make stuffing in a separate dish if you prefer extra crispy edges.
Strain gravy through a fine mesh for a silky texture.
Variations
Add cooked sausage to the stuffing for a savory boost.
Include diced apples or cranberries for a sweet-tart contrast.
Substitute fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage for dried.
Make a gluten-free version with GF bread and flour for gravy.
Add roasted mushrooms to the stuffing for earthy flavor.
Top chicken with a honey-mustard glaze for a sweet finish.
Use turkey instead of chicken for a holiday twist.
Add grated Parmesan to the stuffing for extra richness.
Infuse gravy with a splash of sherry or white wine.
Mix chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts into the stuffing for crunch.
Q&A
Can I make the stuffing ahead?
Yes, prepare it the day before and refrigerate.
Do I have to stuff the chicken?
No, you can bake stuffing separately.
How long does leftover chicken last?
3–4 days refrigerated.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, for up to 2 months.
Is dark meat better for stuffing?
Dark meat stays juicier, but both work.
Can I use a store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Yes, use pre-cooked chicken and make fresh gravy.
Should I cover the chicken while roasting?
Not needed unless skin is browning too quickly.
Can I make gravy without drippings?
Use butter and broth; it will still be flavorful.
How do I get crispy stuffing edges?
Bake stuffing separately uncovered at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.
What sides pair well?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, roasted carrots, or cranberry sauce.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 780mg
Conclusion
Chicken with Stuffing and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender roasted chicken, savory bread stuffing, and luscious gravy for a meal that feels both hearty and homey. Its versatility allows for simple weeknight dinners or impressive holiday spreads, while the components can be customized to personal taste with herbs, add-ins, and cooking techniques. Proper preparation—ensuring the chicken remains juicy, the stuffing flavorful, and the gravy rich—makes this dish a standout centerpiece. Served with seasonal vegetables or mashed potatoes, it provides a complete, satisfying meal. This classic recipe embodies homestyle cooking at its finest, delivering warmth, flavor, and tradition in every bite.