Introduction

Chicken Kiev is a classic dish that elevates a simple chicken breast into a delightful culinary experience. This iconic recipe features tender chicken stuffed with a rich herb butter, creating a delicious burst of flavor with each bite. Whether served with a side of mashed potatoes or fresh vegetables, Chicken Kiev is perfect for a special occasion or a comforting family dinner.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breasts – 4 pieces
Unsalted butter – 100g (about 7 tablespoons)
Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
Fresh dill – 1 tablespoon, finely chopped
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Lemon juice – 1 tablespoon
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Plain flour – 1 cup
Eggs – 2, beaten
Panko breadcrumbs – 2 cups
Vegetable oil – for frying

Prep Time

Preparation time for Chicken Kiev is approximately 30 minutes. This involves making the herb butter, stuffing the chicken, and setting up for frying.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is about 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to brown perfectly and ensuring that the butter inside melts. In total, the entire process takes around 50 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it an ideal choice to share with family or friends.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Garlic Butter

Combine softened butter with minced garlic, fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix until everything is well combined. Shape the mixture into a log using plastic wrap and refrigerate to firm up.

Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1 cm thick.

Stuff the Chicken

Remove the garlic butter from the refrigerator and cut it into portions. Place a piece of the garlic butter in the center of each chicken breast. Fold the sides of the chicken over the butter and roll it tightly to enclose it. Secure the ends with toothpicks if necessary.

Coat the Chicken

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, shaking off excess, then dip it in beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs.

Chill the Coated Chicken

Place the breaded chicken pieces on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the coating adhere during cooking.

Cook the Chicken

Heat a generous amount of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken rolls, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).

Rest and Serve

Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, ensuring the melted garlic butter oozes out when cut.

Notes

Choosing Chicken Breasts

Opt for thick, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. Thin chicken may dry out during cooking.

Garlic Butter Variations

Feel free to add herbs like thyme or chives, or even a dash of lemon juice to the garlic butter for extra flavor.

Making Ahead

You can prepare the chicken rolls in advance and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before cooking.

Alternative Cooking Methods

For a healthier alternative, consider baking the chicken in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Kiev pairs well with a fresh salad or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Cook techniques

Preparing the Chicken

To prepare the chicken, start by flattening the chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and a tender texture. Use a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan to gently pound the chicken to about an even thickness.

Making Garlic Butter

Combine softened butter with minced garlic, fresh herbs, and a pinch of salt. This mixture is the key to achieving a flavorful filling that melts beautifully during cooking.

Coating the Chicken

Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. First, dredge the chicken in flour, then dip it into the egg, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior.

Sealing the Butter

To seal the garlic butter inside the chicken, place a portion of the filling in the center of the chicken breast, fold it over, and secure it tightly using toothpicks or kitchen twine.

Cooking Techniques

Cook the chicken in a hot skillet with oil for a crispy crust. For an even more golden exterior, finish it in the oven to ensure the chicken is cooked through without burning the coating.

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but make sure to fully thaw them before flattening and preparing.

What can I substitute for garlic?

If you prefer not to use garlic, you can use shallots or omit it entirely for a milder flavor.

Can I use a different type of butter?

You can use margarine or a plant-based alternative, but the flavor may vary.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Can I prepare Chicken Kiev in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and refrigerate it before cooking. Just ensure to cook it within 24 hours for optimal freshness.

Conclusion

The Chicken Kiev is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with a flavorful garlic and herb butter, creating a satisfying and impressive meal. It brings together crispy exterior and a rich, buttery interior, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether served with a simple salad or a side of buttery mashed potatoes, Chicken Kiev is sure to be a hit at your dining table.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Garlic Butter Shrimp

Pair the flavors of garlic butter with shrimp for a quick and delicious seafood dish that complements the Chicken Kiev beautifully.

Herb-Roasted Potatoes

These crispy, herb-infused roasted potatoes make the perfect side dish to soak up any extra garlic butter.

Parmesan-Crusted Asparagus

Add a touch of elegance to your meal with parmesan-crusted asparagus, offering a lovely crunch and a burst of flavor.

Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine lettuce, creamy dressing, and croutons would provide a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken.

Rosemary Focaccia Bread

Serve warm, homemade focaccia bread infused with rosemary to complement the meal and enhance the overall dining experience.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy garlic mashed potatoes would pair excellently with Chicken Kiev, providing a comforting and indulgent side dish.

Steamed Broccoli with Lemon

A light side of steamed broccoli drizzled with fresh lemon juice adds a vibrant touch to balance the richness of the chicken.

Potato Salad with Dill

A chilled potato salad with dill would provide a refreshing and herby side that harmonizes well with the dish.