What's the Best Substitute for Poultry Seasoning?
Whether you're out of Poultry Seasoning or looking for a healthier alternative, finding the right substitute can save your recipe. Classic herb blend of sage, thyme, marjoram, and rosemary, essential for seasoning chicken, turkey, and stuffing In this guide, we'll explore the best substitutes that work in most recipes and help you achieve similar results.
Quick Answer
Sage + thyme + marjoram + rosemary, or Italian seasoning are the best substitutes for poultry seasoning.
Best Substitutes for Poultry Seasoning
Sage + Thyme + Marjoram + Rosemary
Ratio
1 tsp poultry seasoning = 1/2 tsp sage + 1/4 tsp thyme + 1/4 tsp marjoram + 1/4 tsp rosemary
Best For
- stuffing
- roasted poultry
- rubs
- marinades
Description
Individual herbs combined to recreate the classic blend
Mix equal parts of each herb, adjust to taste
Italian Seasoning
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- pasta dishes
- roasted vegetables
- marinades
- sauces
Description
Herb blend with similar Mediterranean flavors
Contains oregano and basil, slightly different flavor profile
Herbes de Provence
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- roasted meats
- vegetables
- soups
- stews
Description
French herb blend with lavender and savory
More complex flavor with lavender notes
Sage + Thyme
Ratio
1 tsp poultry seasoning = 1/2 tsp sage + 1/2 tsp thyme
Best For
- stuffing
- roasted poultry
- simple seasoning
Description
Simplified blend with the two most important herbs
Missing marjoram and rosemary but still effective
Dried Mixed Herbs
Ratio
1:1
Best For
- general cooking
- marinades
- sauces
Description
Generic herb blend with similar Mediterranean flavors
May contain different herbs, check ingredients
Fresh Herbs
Ratio
1 tsp dried = 1 tbsp fresh
Best For
- stuffing
- roasted poultry
- garnishes
Description
Fresh sage, thyme, marjoram, and rosemary
Use 3 times the amount of fresh herbs as dried
How to Choose the Right Substitute
When choosing a substitute for Poultry Seasoning, consider the recipe's requirements for taste, texture, and cooking method. Think about whether you need something that mimics the original exactly or if a different but complementary flavor would work. Also consider dietary restrictions and availability of ingredients.
Cooking Tips
Poultry seasoning is a blend of herbs commonly used for chicken and turkey
It typically contains sage, thyme, marjoram, and rosemary
Store poultry seasoning in airtight containers away from heat and light
Poultry seasoning works well in stuffing, rubs, and marinades
The blend is essential for traditional Thanksgiving stuffing
Add to breadcrumbs for homemade stuffing mix
Works great in poultry rubs and marinades
Can be used to season roasted vegetables too
Always taste and adjust seasonings when using substitutes
Consider the cooking method - some substitutes work better in certain applications