Introduction
Indulge in the flavorful and juicy Chicken Kiev, a classic dish that combines tender chicken with a savory herb butter filling and crispy breadcrumb coating. This recipe is a perfect choice for a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Chicken Kiev at home allows you to customize the filling and coating to your liking, ensuring a fresh and flavorful dish. It’s a great way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen.
How to Make Chicken Kiev
Ingredients:
- 6 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast (butterflied and pounded)
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup flour
- 2 cups bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese
- 2 cups oil
Directions:
- In a small bowl, mix butter, salt, pepper, paprika, cilantro, and garlic.
- Season chicken with salt and pepper.
- Beat eggs in one bowl, place flour in a second bowl, and breadcrumbs in a third.
- Place a spoonful of the butter mixture in the center of each butterflied chicken breast and sprinkle with parmesan.
- Fold the sides of the chicken to form a packet.
- Wrap each chicken packet in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Remove the plastic wrap and coat each chicken packet in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a saucepan and fry each chicken packet until golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain on a paper towel-lined plate and let cool before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Kiev
Serve Chicken Kiev hot with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. Garnish with lemon wedges for a burst of citrus flavor.
How to Store Chicken Kiev
Store any leftover Chicken Kiev in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy coating.
Tips to Make Chicken Kiev
- Ensure the butter filling is chilled before wrapping the chicken to prevent it from melting.
- Use fresh herbs and spices for the best flavor in the butter mixture.
- Seal the chicken packets tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
Variation
For a healthier version, bake the Chicken Kiev in the oven instead of frying to reduce the oil content. You can also experiment with different herb combinations for the filling.
FAQs
- Can I use bone-in chicken for Chicken Kiev? It’s best to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easier filling and cooking.
- How can I make a vegetarian version of Chicken Kiev? Substitute the chicken with a thick slice of tofu or a portobello mushroom for a vegetarian alternative.
- Can I freeze unbaked Chicken Kiev? Yes, you can assemble the chicken packets and freeze them before cooking for a convenient make-ahead meal.