Step 1

In a large skillet, melt the butter. Once hot, add the onion, celery, and a big pinch of salt. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.

Step 2

In a large bowl, add the bread, onion mixture, and salt. Mix together until the bread is moistened.

Step 3

Preheat oven to 400F. Have a small roasting pan or 8x8 pan ready.

Step 4

In a small bowl, mix together thyme, salt, and pepper.

Step 5

Fill the hen with stuffing. If there is stuffing leftover, add it to the bottom of the pan. If there is no stuffing leftover, add a roasting rack to the pan.

Step 6

Tie the hen's legs together with oven-safe twine (optional but keeps the legs in place) then place on top of the stuffing or roasting rack.

Step 7

Brush the hen with olive oil then rub the thyme mixture all over, getting underneath the wings, legs, and skin whenever possible.

Step 8

Bake for 50-60 minutes or until juices run clear when thickest part of chicken is pierced and internal temperature reaches 165°F.