Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering adventure with the classic Ukrainian dish that has been tantalizing food lovers for generations - Chicken Kiev! Imagine cutting into a perfectly golden, crispy breaded chicken breast and watching a river of herbed butter cascade onto your plate. This isn't just a recipe; it's a culinary experience that promises to transform your dinner from ordinary to extraordinary, delivering a burst of flavor that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Ukrainian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon dill, chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the herb butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and dill. Shape the butter mixture into a log and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, create a deep pocket in each chicken breast, being careful not to cut through completely.
- Stuff the chicken: Cut the chilled herb butter log into 4 equal pieces. Carefully insert one piece of herb butter into the pocket of each chicken breast. Secure the opening with toothpicks to prevent the butter from leaking during cooking.
- Set up breading station: Prepare three shallow dishes - one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Bread the chicken: Coat each stuffed chicken breast first in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the breaded chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Spray or lightly brush with olive oil to help achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Carefully remove toothpicks before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. The chicken should have a crispy exterior and a rich, herbed butter center that oozes out when cut.
Tips
- Keep your herb butter ice-cold before stuffing to prevent it from melting too quickly during cooking.
- Use toothpicks strategically to seal the butter pocket and prevent leakage.
- Pat the chicken breasts completely dry before breading to ensure a crisp, even coating.
- Don't skip the resting period after baking - it helps redistribute the juices and keeps the chicken moist.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray or brush the breaded chicken with olive oil before baking.
- If possible, use fresh herbs for the most vibrant flavor in your butter mixture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 220mg
