Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that brings generations of family tradition right to your dinner table! This legendary Aunt Shirley's Chicken with Matzo Stuffing is more than just a meal—it's a heartwarming experience that captures the essence of Jewish home cooking. Imagine a perfectly roasted chicken, golden and crispy on the outside, with a rich, herb-infused matzo stuffing that melts in your mouth. Whether you're looking to impress your family or explore authentic Jewish cuisine, this recipe is about to become your new favorite showstopper.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Jewish
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken
- 4 cups matzo meal
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
- Prepare the chicken by removing giblets and patting the whole chicken dry with paper towels. Season the chicken inside and out with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, sauté chopped onions and celery in 1/4 cup of melted butter until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine matzo meal, sautéed onions and celery, chopped parsley, remaining melted butter, and chicken broth. Mix thoroughly until the stuffing is moist and holds together.
- Carefully stuff the chicken cavity with the matzo stuffing, being careful not to pack too tightly. Secure the cavity opening with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Place the stuffed chicken in a roasting pan, breast side up. Brush the exterior of the chicken with any remaining melted butter.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.
- Carefully remove the stuffing from the chicken cavity and transfer to a serving dish. Carve the chicken and serve hot with the matzo stuffing.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Don't Overstuff: When adding the matzo stuffing, be gentle and avoid packing it too tightly, which can lead to dense, heavy stuffing.
- Butter Magic: Brushing the chicken with melted butter before roasting helps create that irresistible golden-brown skin.
- Resting Matters: Allow the chicken to rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to help redistribute the juices, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
- Fresh Herbs: For an extra flavor boost, consider using fresh parsley and even adding some fresh thyme or rosemary to the stuffing.
- Matzo Meal Consistency: Ensure your stuffing mixture is moist but not soggy—it should hold together when pressed.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 597kcal
Carbohydrates: 43g
Protein: 27g
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 103mg
