Easy Chicken Kiev: A Delicious and Simple Recipe

Chicken Kiev is a classic dish that combines the tenderness of chicken breast with the rich, buttery flavor of herbed garlic. It is often associated with Ukrainian cuisine but has gained popularity around the world for its mouthwatering taste and impressive presentation. If you’re looking for an easy way to impress your friends and family, this Easy Chicken Kiev recipe is just what you need!

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious dish, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• Vegetable oil, for frying

For the Herb Butter:

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried dill)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for added zest

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Herb Butter

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper. If using, add the lemon juice for an extra touch.
2. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Place the herb butter on a piece of plastic wrap, shape it into a log, and twist the ends to seal. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste.
3. With a sharp knife, create a pocket in each chicken breast. Be careful not to cut all the way through. The pocket should be large enough to hold a piece of the chilled herb butter.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken

1. Remove the herb butter from the refrigerator and cut it into four equal pieces.
2. Stuff each chicken breast pocket with a piece of the herb butter, making sure to seal the opening by pressing the edges together.

Step 4: Breading and Frying

1. Set up a breading station: Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate shallow dishes.
2. Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs, ensuring an even layer.
3. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the breaded chicken breasts, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

1. Once the chicken is browned, transfer it to a baking dish.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Serve

1. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. When you cut into the chicken, the melted herb butter will ooze out, creating a delightful sauce.
2. Serve hot, accompanied by your favorite sides—mashed potatoes or a fresh salad make excellent choices.

Tips for Success

• Ensure that the herb butter is very firm before stuffing, as this will help it to stay securely in the chicken during cooking.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your herb butter according to your preference.
• For a healthier option, you can bake the breaded chicken instead of frying for a lower-fat version.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Kiev is not only a show-stopping dish but also a straightforward recipe that requires minimal ingredients and effort. Perfect for any occasion, this delicious meal is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite. Try it out tonight and delight in the rich, buttery flavors that make Chicken Kiev a beloved favorite!