Stuffed chicken

Delicious stuffed chicken recipe: A savory feast for memorable moments

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Discover the joy of cooking with this stuffed chicken recipe, which will not only delight your taste buds but also bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. This traditional recipe has been passed down through generations and is perfect for holiday meals or a special family dinner.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 large onion
- 1 red bell pepper
- 150 g rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cloves of garlic

For the marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon curry
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cloves of garlic

Preparing the stuffed chicken:

Step 1: Preparing the chicken
Start by carefully opening the chicken using a sharp knife. Remove the skin from the meat, leaving the thighs and wings intact. This step may seem daunting, but with a little patience and care, you'll have a perfectly prepared chicken for stuffing.

Step 2: Boiling the meat
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt and a few bay leaves. Once the water starts boiling, add all the pieces of meat obtained from the chicken. Boil the meat for about 10 minutes to prepare it for the stuffing. This step will help enhance the flavors.

Step 3: Preparing the stuffing
Meanwhile, rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch, then boil it according to the package instructions. In a pan, sauté the finely chopped onion in a little oil until it becomes translucent. Add the grated carrot, diced red bell pepper, then the boiled rice and the meat cut into small pieces. Mix all the ingredients well, then add enough water to cover the stuffing and let it simmer. After about 10-15 minutes, add the tomato paste, salt, pepper, and crushed garlic. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, then turn off the heat and let the mixture cool.

Step 4: Stuffing the chicken
Once the stuffing has cooled, fill the chicken with the obtained mixture. Make sure not to overfill it, as this can lead to the skin tearing during cooking. Finally, secure the opening of the chicken with a toothpick or sew it to keep the stuffing inside.

Step 5: Marinating the chicken
In a bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients: oil, chili powder, curry, salt, pepper, and crushed garlic. Rub the chicken with this marinade, making sure to cover the entire surface. Place the chicken in a tray and refrigerate for 2-3 hours. This marinating will enhance the flavors and make the meat more tender.

Step 6: Baking the chicken
Preheat the oven to 180°C. In the tray with the chicken, add a cup of water and a drizzle of oil to prevent the meat from drying out. Bake the chicken for about 60 minutes, or until the meat turns golden and crispy. It is important to check from time to time if more water is needed in the tray to avoid burning.

Step 7: Serving
Once the chicken is ready, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier meat. Serve it alongside a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.

Practical tips for a perfect result:
- Choose a high-quality chicken, preferably free-range, for better taste.
- If you prefer, you can also add mushrooms or chopped nuts to the stuffing for extra texture and flavor.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices in the marinade, such as rosemary or thyme.

Nutritional benefits:
This stuffed chicken recipe is not only delicious but also rich in protein, vitamins, and essential minerals. Chicken meat is an excellent source of lean protein, while the vegetables add fiber and nutrients. A serving of stuffed chicken can contain approximately 350-450 calories, depending on the serving size and additional ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with turkey or pork, adjusting the cooking time according to the type of meat used.

2. How can I make this recipe quicker?
To save time, you can use pre-cooked chicken (e.g., boiled or roasted chicken) for the stuffing.

3. Can the stuffed chicken be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken before baking it. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container and fully thaw it before baking.

This stuffed chicken recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a cooking experience that blends tradition with innovation. Whether you surprise your family or impress your friends, this stuffed chicken will surely become a favorite on your menu. Enjoy your meal!