21 Apr 2025
Cook time 55 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
3 lb whole chicken
1 tbsp olive oil
4 potatoes
2 tbsp all-purpose white wheat flour
1/2 cup white wine
1 cup chicken gravy
1 onion
2 bacon strips
2 garlic cloves
1 cup bread crumbs
1/2 cup dried plums (prunes)
1/3 cup walnuts
2 tbsp sage
1 egg
This roast chicken with prune and walnut stuffing is a delightful dish that's perfect for special occasions or a comforting family dinner. The combination of succulent chicken, savory stuffing laced with sweet prunes and crunchy walnuts, and roast potatoes creates a truly memorable meal.
Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Stuffing:
- In a medium skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel.
- In the same skillet, use the bacon drippings to sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until they are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Mix Stuffing Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked onions and garlic, crispy bacon, bread crumbs, prunes, walnuts, and chopped sage.
- Add the beaten egg to the mixture and stir until everything is well incorporated. Set the stuffing aside.
4. Prepare the Chicken:
- Rinse the chicken inside and out under cold water, then pat it dry with paper towels.
- Carefully spoon the stuffing into the cavity of the chicken. Do not overstuff; leave some space for the stuffing to expand.
- Use kitchen twine to tie the legs of the chicken together to hold the stuffing in place.
5. Season the Chicken:
- Rub the chicken all over with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper.
6. Roast the Chicken and Potatoes:
- Place the quartered potatoes in a roasting pan and drizzle with a bit of olive oil, tossing to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
- Place the stuffed chicken on top of the potatoes in the roasting pan.
- Roast in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear when the thickest part of the thigh is pierced.
7. Prepare the Gravy:
- Once the chicken is done, remove it from the roasting pan and tent it with aluminum foil to keep it warm.
- Pour off any excess fat from the roasting pan, leaving the drippings.
- Place the roasting pan on the stove over medium heat. Sprinkle the flour into the drippings and whisk continuously to form a roux.
- Gradually add the white wine, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the chicken gravy, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 5-10 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve:
- Carve the roast chicken and serve with the roasted potatoes and a generous ladle of gravy.
- Garnish with extra fresh sage if desired.
Tips:
- Ensure your chicken is thoroughly cleaned and patted dry before starting.
- For extra flavor, season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, and your preferred herbs before stuffing.
- Soak the prunes in warm water for about 10 minutes before chopping them and adding to the stuffing for a juicier texture.
- Make sure the stuffing is not packed too tightly inside the chicken to allow for even cooking.
- Baste the chicken periodically with its own juices or with a bit more olive oil to keep it moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken, aiming for at least 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the meat and stuffing for safety.
- Rest the chicken for 10-15 minutes after roasting before carving to lock in the juices.
Once your roast chicken is cooked to perfection and the delightful aroma fills your kitchen, it's time to carve and serve this delectable dish. The creamy chicken gravy adds a final touch of richness, bringing all the flavors together in every bite. This roast chicken with prune and walnut stuffing is sure to impress and satisfy with its wonderful blend of textures and tastes.