Chicken Kiev Recipe

Chicken Kiev is a classic dish that has become a favorite in many households around the world. Originating from Eastern Europe, this delectable meal features tender chicken breasts that are pounded thin, filled with a flavorful mixture of garlic, herbs, and butter, then rolled and breaded before being fried or baked to golden perfection. When cut into, the inside unfurls a deliciously rich and aromatic garlic butter that oozes out, creating a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Often served alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad, Chicken Kiev is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a delight to prepare, making it a perfect choice for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 100g (about 3.5 oz) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) if baking.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, dill (if using), lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thick.
4. On a flat surface, lay the pounded chicken breasts out, and place a generous tablespoon of the garlic butter mixture in the center of each chicken breast.
5. Carefully fold the sides of the chicken over the filling and then roll it tightly from one end to the other, ensuring the filling is enclosed. Secure the ends with toothpicks or wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to help maintain its shape.
6. Setup a breading station: Place flour in a shallow dish, beaten eggs in another shallow dish, and breadcrumbs in a third dish.
7. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and dip each rolled chicken breast first into the flour, ensuring it is well coated, then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
8. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
9. If baking: Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C/165°F).
10. Remove from heat and allow to rest for a few minutes. Carefully remove toothpicks before serving.

Servings

This recipe yields 4 servings, making it an ideal dish for family dinners or small gatherings. Enjoy the exquisite flavors of Chicken Kiev with your favorite side dishes!

Nutritional Information

Tools Needed

• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Plastic wrap
• Mallet or rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Meat thermometer
• Whisk
• Shallow bowls for breading

Tips for Preparing Chicken Kiev

1. Butter Preparation: Ensure the garlic herb butter is very well blended. Soften the butter to room temperature before mixing in garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper for better flavor diffusion.

2. Freezing the Butter: After shaping the butter into logs, freeze it for about 30 minutes. This helps in achieving a perfect core so that it doesn’t melt out while cooking.

3. Chicken Tenderization: Use the mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken evenly to an even thickness. This step helps the chicken cook evenly and keeps it tender.

4. Breading Technique: Use a three-step breading process (flour, egg wash, breadcrumbs) ensuring each piece is well-coated for maximum crunch and to seal the butter inside.

5. Oven vs. Frying: For a healthier alternative, you can bake Chicken Kiev instead of frying. Just ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

6. Resting Time: After frying or baking, let the Chicken Kiev rest for five minutes before cutting into it. This allows juices to redistribute, preventing the butter from leaking out too quickly.

Skill Level

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Recipe Course and Cuisine

• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: Ukrainian, Eastern European

Serving and Presentation Recommendations

When serving Chicken Kiev, a splendid presentation enhances the overall dining experience. Place the Chicken Kiev on a warm plate, and garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a slice of lemon for a pop of color.

Accompany with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a light salad for a balanced meal. A small bowl of dipping sauce, such as garlic aioli, can elevate the dining experience. Ensure to slice the Chicken Kiev so that the melted herb butter flows out for an attractive presentation.

Storage Conditions

To store Chicken Kiev, follow these guidelines:

• Refrigeration: If there are leftovers, allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container. Cooked Chicken Kiev can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: If you wish to prepare Chicken Kiev in advance, it can be frozen before cooking. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

• Thawing: When you’re ready to cook frozen Chicken Kiev, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. This helps maintain its texture and prevents the chicken from becoming tough.

Health Benefits

Chicken Kiev offers several health benefits:

• High Protein: Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

• Vitamin A and K: The herbs used in the garlic butter, like parsley, contribute vitamins A and K, which are beneficial for vision and bone health.

• Heart-Healthy Fats: Using unsalted butter in moderation provides healthy fats that are vital for energy and nutrient absorption.

• Antioxidants: Garlic is known for its antioxidant properties, which can help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.

Recommendations for Vegans

While traditional Chicken Kiev is not vegan, consider creating a vegan alternative using plant-based chicken substitutes, vegan butter, and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Here’s how you can modify:

• Substitute chicken with tofu, tempeh, or seitan.
• Use a vegan butter blend for the herbed filling.

Similar Recipes

• Garlic Butter Shrimp
• Chicken Parmesan
• Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Spinach and Cheese
• Herb-Crusted Salmon
• Chicken Fricassée

By following these comprehensive guidelines, your Chicken Kiev will turn out perfectly delicious and impressively presented. Enjoy your culinary adventure!