Chicken breast stuffed in almond crust

Stuffed chicken breast in almond crust – a delicious recipe for a special meal

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Have you ever thought about how to transform a simple chicken breast into a dish worthy of a restaurant? This recipe for stuffed chicken breast in almond crust will delight your senses and bring a touch of elegance to your kitchen. The crunchy almonds, the flavorful filling of carrots, and the fresh taste of lemon combine perfectly to create a main course that will impress family and friends.

This recipe is inspired by culinary traditions that emphasize fresh ingredients and unique combinations of textures and flavors. Whether you are an experienced cook or an enthusiastic beginner, the simple steps and clear details will help you achieve a perfect result.

Ingredients:

- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup of almonds (raw)
- 3 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, a pinch
- Filling:
- 2 medium carrots
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil
- Sea salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste

Step by step:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing the chicken breast well and drying it with a paper towel. This step is essential for achieving a crispy crust during baking.

2. Remove excess fat: If you notice fat on the chicken breast, it’s best to remove it for a healthier roast.

3. Cut the chicken breast: Use a sharp knife to cut each chicken breast in half, being careful not to cut all the way through. Leave a “window” that you will fill later.

4. Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the chicken breast, then drizzle with lemon juice and olive oil. These ingredients will contribute to a fresh and savory taste.

5. Prepare the filling: Grate the carrots and mix them in a bowl with lemon juice, crushed garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper. If you want a spicy note, you can add a pinch of chili or crushed red pepper flakes.

6. Stuff the chicken breast: Take two tablespoons of the carrot filling and stuff each chicken breast. Fold the meat over and secure it with a toothpick to prevent it from opening during baking.

7. Prepare the baking tray: Cut a piece of parchment paper and place it in a baking tray. This trick will help maintain the juiciness of the meat and make cleaning easier.

8. Add the almonds: Grind the almonds in a blender until they become a fine powder, but not quite like flour. Sprinkle half of the almonds on the bottom of the tray, then place the stuffed chicken breast on top. Cover it with the remaining almonds.

9. Bake: Gather the parchment paper to form a packet and place the tray in the preheated oven at 200 degrees Celsius. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken breast is well cooked and juicy.

10. Serve: Finally, let the chicken breast rest for a few minutes before slicing. You can serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad, and for an extra touch of flavor, add a few slices of lemon on top.

Suggestions and variations:

- You can replace the almonds with walnuts or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a more intense flavor, add fresh herbs to the filling, such as parsley or dill.
- This recipe can also be adapted for special diets; for example, use turkey breast instead of chicken for a leaner option.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for the development and maintenance of muscle mass. Almonds provide a healthy dose of monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and minerals, while carrots are a rich source of beta-carotene and fiber.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen chicken breast? Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before preparation to achieve even cooking.
- What side dishes go well? Summer salad or mashed potatoes are excellent choices that perfectly complement this dish.
- How do I know if the chicken is cooked? Use a kitchen thermometer; the internal temperature should be 75 degrees Celsius.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also transform an ordinary meal into a memorable feast. Enjoy!