Stuffed chicken with rice

Stuffed Chicken with Rice: A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

If you are looking for a recipe that brings the goodness and warmth of a family meal, you have come to the right place! Stuffed chicken with rice is an excellent choice, full of savory flavors and pleasant textures. This recipe will not only delight your senses but also become a favorite for Sunday dinner or any special occasion. Let's discover together how to prepare this dish, step by step!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients:
- 1 chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1 cup rice (preferably long-grain)
- 1 carrot (medium, sliced thinly)
- 1 egg (whole)
- 100 g chicken liver pâté
- 2 tablespoons sunflower or canola oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon seasoning (or other preferred spice)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Steps for preparation:

1. Preparing the chicken: Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any blood clots or impurities. Then, dry it with a paper towel. This step is essential for achieving a crispy skin in the end.

2. Seasoning the chicken: In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, paprika, and rosemary. Use your fingers to spread this mixture all over the chicken, but don’t forget to season the inside as well. This will ensure a delicious and even flavor.

3. Preparing the rice filling: In a pot, add one cup of water and bring it to a boil. Add the rice and sliced carrot. Boil for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is soft but not overcooked (al dente). Once cooked, drain the water under cold running water to stop the cooking process. Place the rice in a large bowl and let it cool.

4. Combining filling ingredients: Once the rice has cooled, add the whole egg, liver pâté, pepper, seasoning, and chopped parsley. Mix all the ingredients with a spatula or your hands until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. This will add extra flavor and a creamy texture.

5. Stuffing the chicken: Use a spoon to fill the chicken with the rice mixture. Make sure to fill the chicken evenly but do not overstuff, as the filling will expand during baking. After filling, sew the opening with thread or secure it with toothpicks to prevent the filling from leaking out.

6. Baking the chicken: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). In a baking tray, add 2 tablespoons of sunflower oil and place the chicken. Bake the chicken for about 1 hour, or until the skin is golden and crispy, and the juices running from the meat are clear. Check if it is cooked using a kitchen thermometer - the internal temperature should be 75°C (165°F).

7. Serving: Once the chicken is ready, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This step is important as it allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat more tender. Serve it with your favorite side dish, such as a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with various spices for the filling, such as curry or chili, to give it an international twist.
- If you prefer more tender chicken meat, you can replace the rice with quinoa or couscous.
- The stuffed chicken can be prepared in advance and put in the oven when you have guests, saving precious time.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This recipe offers a balanced meal, rich in protein from chicken and egg, as well as carbohydrates from rice. A serving of stuffed chicken contains approximately 400-500 calories, depending on the portion and ingredients used. It is a good source of B vitamins, iron, and fiber, thanks to the carrot and parsley.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use another grain instead of rice?
Yes, you can use quinoa, couscous, or even bulgur to vary the texture of the filling.

2. How can I store leftovers?
The stuffed chicken can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

3. What side dishes pair best?
A fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables are excellent choices to complement this dish.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get cooking! Whether you are preparing this stuffed chicken with rice for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, the result will surely be delicious. Enjoy your meal!