How About an Absolutely Bonkers Main Dish for Thanksgiving?

A turducken—a chicken stuffed inside a duck, which is then stuffed inside a turkey—can be a delicious centerpiece for a holiday meal or special occasion. Although it requires some effort, this impressive dish is well worth it! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide.

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Prepare the birds: First, you’ll need to debone the chicken and duck completely, as well as the turkey except for its drumsticks and wings. Removing the bones allows for easier stuffing and even cooking. If you prefer not to do this yourself, ask a butcher for help.
Season and layer the stuffing: You’ll need at least three types of stuffing—one for each bird. Popular options include cornbread, sausage, and wild rice stuffing. Season each with herbs and spices such as sage, thyme, and rosemary for flavor. Start by laying out the turkey and spreading a layer of stuffing evenly over the interior.
Assemble the turducken: Place the deboned duck on top of the turkey stuffing, then spread a second layer of stuffing over the duck. Next, lay the deboned chicken on top of the duck’s stuffing, and add a final layer of stuffing inside the chicken cavity. Carefully fold the turkey around the duck and chicken layers and secure it with kitchen twine to keep the stuffing intact.
Cook slowly and thoroughly: Transfer your turducken to a roasting pan and roast it low and slow. Cook at 325°F for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure that all layers are fully cooked. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes before slicing.

Making a turducken can be time-consuming, but the result is a flavorful, layered dish that’s sure to impress guests with its rich flavors and presentation.