Chicken stuffed with ground beef

Elevate your dinner with this succulent chicken stuffed with a flavorful ground beef mixture. This dish is a hearty combination of juicy roasted chicken and a savory filling, creating a show-stopping centerpiece perfect for family meals or special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (approximately 4–5 lbs)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

For the Stuffing:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove any giblets if present.
3. Rub olive oil over the chicken and season it inside and out with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Step 2: Make the Stuffing

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add diced onions, carrots, peas, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef mixture with breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

1. Fill the cavity of the chicken with the ground beef mixture, packing it tightly but not overstuffing.
2. Use kitchen twine to tie the chicken legs together to secure the stuffing.

Step 4: Roast the Chicken

1. Place the stuffed chicken on a roasting rack in a baking dish.
2. Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for about 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in both the chicken and the stuffing.
3. If the chicken skin starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.
2. Slice and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Tips

• For a richer flavor, add cooked bacon or shredded cheese to the stuffing mixture.
• Make sure the stuffing reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
• Baste the chicken with its juices every 30 minutes for an extra juicy and flavorful result.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours

Calories

Approximately 400–500 calories per serving, depending on the size of the chicken and the amount of stuffing used.

Conclusion

Chicken stuffed with ground beef is a dish that combines classic flavors in a creative way. The juicy chicken and hearty stuffing make for a satisfying and memorable meal. Whether served at a festive gathering or as a comforting family dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and delight your guests. Enjoy!