This cozy chicken and cornbread stuffing recipe layers juicy chicken thighs with buttery cornbread. The result is a homestyle dinner that tastes straight out of Sunday supper.

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Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs bring an unparalleled juiciness and rich flavor that other cuts often lack. Their inherent tenderness and higher fat content ensure they roast beautifully. The roast develops a golden, crispy skin while remaining incredibly moist within. They are the hearty foundation upon which the entire dish is built.

Celery

Fresh celery contributes a vibrant, peppery freshness and a delightful crunch to the stuffing. Its subtle earthiness also acts as a counterpoint to the richer ingredients, balancing the overall flavor profile.

Onions

Onions transforms in the heat. It caramelizes subtly to release its natural sugars. This deepens the savory notes of the stuffing. As they soften, they become wonderfully aromatic, seamlessly weaving together all the flavors of the sweet cornbread and savory chicken.

Bay Leaf

Bay leaf is an unassuming herb that delivers a sophisticated, subtle herbal undertone that infuses juices from the chicken while cooking . It adds a layer of aromatic complexity that is felt more than explicitly tasted. This layer elevates the dish with its classic, earthy fragrance.

Butter

The secret to a truly exceptional stuffing, butter provides a rich, luxurious base that coats every component. It contributes to the golden-brown crispiness of the stuffing’s exterior while ensuring the interior remains incredibly moist and tender. Its decadent flavor is essential for that comforting, homemade taste.

Cornbread

The heart and soul of this Southern-inspired dish, cornbread provides a sweet-savory backbone. Its unique crumbly texture absorbs the savory liquids beautifully. This creates a stuffing that is both substantial and incredibly flavorful. It is a true taste of traditional comfort food.

TIPS & TRICKS FOR THE BEST SAVORY CHICKEN THIGHS AND STUFFING

Toast Your Cornbread Cubes for Superior Texture

Before incorporating your cornbread into the stuffing, take the extra step to lightly toast the cubes. This simple act dramatically improves the stuffing’s texture. It prevents it from becoming soggy. Instead, it gives the stuffing a delightful crispiness on the edges while remaining tender within. It also deepens the cornbread’s flavor.

Swap Chicken Thighs for Turkey Thighs for a Holiday Feel

Looking to adapt this recipe for a festive occasion or simply prefer a different protein? Turkey thighs or legs are an excellent substitute for chicken thighs, offering a similar rich flavor and succulent texture. This swap instantly lends a more “holiday” feel to the dish, making it perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings.

Add Sausage or Mushrooms for a Heartier Twist

For those seeking a more robust and substantial meal, consider enhancing your stuffing with additional ingredients. Cooked and crumbled sausage (sage or breakfast sausage works wonderfully) will introduce a savory depth and a delightful chew. Alternatively, sautéed mushrooms add an earthy umami flavor. They provide a pleasant textural contrast. This makes the dish even more satisfying and flavorful.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED TO MAKE THIS RECIPE

Cast iron skillet or baking dish

Mixing bowl

Wooden spoon

Roasting pan

SIMILAR INGREDIENTS TO

Strawberry Coleslaw

Cucumber Vinaigrette

Griddle Pork chops and Onions

ENJOY THIS RECIPE WITH

Grilled Garlic Parmesan Oysters

One-Pot BBQ Chicken Drumsticks & Brown Sugar Baked Beans

Cajun Barbecue Crab Legs

RECIPE

Marissa Bolden

Savory Chicken Thighs with Classic Cornbread Stuffing

This cozy chicken and cornbread stuffing recipe layers juicy chicken thighs with buttery cornbread, aromatics, and herbs for a homestyle dinner that tastes straight out of Sunday supper.

Print Recipe

Servings: 4

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 6 bone-in skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 Tbsp butter divided
• 4 cups cornbread cubed and toasted
• 2 celery ribs diced
• 1 onion diced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves divided
• Seasoning Blend:
• 2 Tbsp seasoned salt
• 1 Tbsp garlic powder
• 1 Tbsp cayenne pepper
• 1 Tbsp black pepper
• 1 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

 

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the seasoned salt, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and oregano. Season the chicken thighs thoroughly, making sure to get some seasoning under the skin. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator.
2. Sear the Chicken: In a cast-iron skillet, melt 4 Tbsp of butter over medium-high heat. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 6 minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for another 4 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Continue this process for any remaining thighs.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Reduce the heat of the pan. Add the diced onions and celery and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
4. Combine and Roast: Stir in 1 bay leaf, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the toasted cornbread cubes and stir to combine. Top the mixture with the seared chicken thighs and the remaining bay leaf.
5. Roast: Roast in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cornbread is lightly browned.

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