Chicken Kiev

Chicken Kiev – A Classic Delicacy with a Modern Twist

If you're looking for a chicken recipe that impresses both in taste and presentation, look no further! Chicken Kiev is an excellent choice for an elegant dinner or a special occasion. This dish shines with a crispy crust and a juicy interior filled with flavored butter. Here’s how to prepare it step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 100 g butter (preferably high-fat)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 100 g flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 150 g breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying

Preparing the butter filling:
1. Start by taking the butter out of the freezer. It will harden and be easier to cut.
2. Cut the butter into small cubes. Add the chopped parsley, minced garlic, and lemon juice to a bowl. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
3. Place the butter mixture on a piece of plastic wrap and shape it into a cylinder. Wrap it tightly and place it in the freezer for about 15-20 minutes until firm.

Preparing the chicken:
4. In the meantime, prepare the chicken breasts. Use a meat mallet to pound each breast thinner and more even.
5. Remove the butter from the freezer and cut the cylinder into slices. Place a slice of butter in the center of each chicken breast. Fold the chicken so that the filling is well sealed inside. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to seal the edges if necessary.

Breading:
6. Prepare a trio of plates: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
7. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, then in eggs, and finally in breadcrumbs, ensuring they are well coated.

Cooking:
8. Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough but not smoking for a perfect crust.
9. Fry the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Check that the chicken is cooked through and that the butter filling is melting.

Serving:
10. After frying the chicken, let it rest for a few minutes on a paper towel to absorb excess oil.
11. Serve warm, alongside a fresh salad or mashed potatoes, and for an extra burst of flavor, add a squeeze of lemon juice on top.

Helpful tips:
- You can experiment with various herbs like dill or basil for the butter filling, giving your dish a personalized touch.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius for 25-30 minutes until golden and fully cooked.
- Ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying; if it’s too cold, the chicken will absorb too much oil and become greasy.

Chicken Kiev is a simple and quick recipe, but it makes a big impact on your guests. Enjoy every bite and relish the compliments you'll receive!