Chicken Kiev is a timeless classic that combines the juiciness of chicken breast with the rich, buttery filling that bursts with flavor in every bite. This delicious baked version adds a crispy twist, making it perfect for those who crave a healthier option without sacrificing the dish’s signature crunch. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Chicken and Filling
- 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Cooking spray or olive oil for baking
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Place the butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap, shaping it into a small log. Wrap tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Using a sharp knife, create a pocket in each chicken breast by slicing horizontally from one side, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Remove the butter log from the refrigerator and cut it into four equal pieces. Place one piece of butter inside each chicken breast pocket.
- Secure the opening of the chicken breast with toothpicks to prevent the filling from oozing out during baking.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by coating it in the panko breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure an even coating.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Place the breaded chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with cooking spray.
- Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help achieve a golden, crispy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- If using frozen chicken Kiev, bake for 35-40 minutes or until fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp garden salad.
Tips and Variations
Tips for Perfect Chicken Kiev
- Secure the Filling: Ensure the chicken breasts are securely sealed with toothpicks to prevent the buttery filling from leaking out during baking.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Using panko breadcrumbs adds extra crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but the texture will be slightly different.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill add a burst of flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be substituted, but reduce the quantity to half.
Variations to Try
- Herb Butter Variations: Experiment with different herb combinations, such as adding tarragon, chives, or even a touch of smoked paprika to the butter mixture.
- Cheese Filling: For an extra indulgent twist, add a slice of mozzarella or Gruyère cheese to the butter filling before sealing the chicken breast.
- Baked Chicken Kiev with Panko: If you prefer a lighter version, opt for panko breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this Delicious Baked Chicken Kiev (assuming four servings) contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
This Delicious Baked Chicken Kiev is a wonderful combination of flavors and textures, offering a crispy, golden exterior and a succulent, buttery filling. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying this dish for the first time, the step-by-step instructions make it easy to prepare at home.
We encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience in the comments below. Don’t forget to explore other tasty recipes on easycrispyrecipes.com and subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious ideas straight to your inbox.