Chicken stuffed with vegetables and kaiser

Stuffed chicken with vegetables and kaiser – a delicious, savory recipe perfect for a family meal, combining rich flavors and crunchy textures. This stuffed chicken becomes the star of the table, and every bite is an explosion of tastes. Let's see how we can transform simple ingredients into something truly special!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Required ingredients

- 1 whole chicken (1-1.5 kg)
- 1 kg Mexican vegetables (for example, a mix of peas, corn, carrots)
- 3-4 medium potatoes
- 2 carrots
- 200 g kaiser (or bacon, if you prefer)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 100 ml water
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or another oil of your choice)

Preparing the stuffed chicken

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water to remove impurities. Use a paper towel to dry it thoroughly, so no moisture remains, which will help achieve a crispy skin.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the potatoes and carrots. Slice the potatoes into thin rounds for even baking, and you can cut the carrots into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. Place the chopped vegetables in a bowl and add 1 tablespoon of oil, mixing well to coat evenly.

3. Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. This mixture will add a delicious flavor and penetrate the meat.

4. Stuffing the chicken: Rub the inside of the chicken with the spice mixture, ensuring it is well coated. Fill the chicken with some of the chopped vegetables and the diced kaiser. The kaiser will add a special flavor, while the vegetables will help keep the meat juicy.

5. Sewing the chicken: Use a piece of kitchen twine to sew up the chicken, so the filling doesn't leak out during baking. This step is essential to keep all the flavors inside.

6. Seasoning the exterior: Rub the outside of the chicken with the remaining spice mixture. This will help form a delicious crust during baking.

7. Preparing the baking tray: Place the remaining vegetables in the baking tray, adding water to prevent burning. Place the stuffed chicken on top of the vegetables.

8. Baking: Cover the tray with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C (medium heat) for 40 minutes. This step allows the chicken to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the vegetables.

9. Browning: After 40 minutes, remove the tray from the oven, take off the foil, and brush the chicken with a tablespoon of honey. This will give a sweet flavor and a golden crust. Leave the chicken in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, then turn it over, brushing it again with honey, and let it brown for another 10-15 minutes.

Serving and suggestions

Once the chicken is ready, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before carving. This step helps the juices redistribute in the meat, making it juicier. Serve it alongside the roasted vegetables from the tray, and for a touch of freshness, add a green salad with lemon dressing.

Helpful tip

If you want to experiment with flavors, you can add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the chicken filling. You can also substitute the kaiser with turkey for a lighter option.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and the vegetables add a boost of vitamins and fiber. This recipe is not only tasty but also healthy, making it perfect for a family meal.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! You can adapt the recipe to the vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or onions.

2. How can I make the chicken spicier?
Add a bit of hot paprika or chili to the spice mixture.

3. How long can I keep the leftovers?
Cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Pairing with other recipes

This stuffed chicken recipe pairs perfectly with a side of mashed potatoes or a cabbage salad. Also, to complete the meal, try a dry white wine that will highlight the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.

This stuffed chicken with vegetables and kaiser is more than just a meal – it's a culinary experience that will bring joy and flavor to every bite. So put on your apron and enjoy the cooking process!