Chicken breast under a bread lid

Chicken breast under a bread lid - a spectacular recipe for unforgettable moments

If you want to impress your family or guests with a delicious and visually appealing dish, chicken breast under a bread lid is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the tenderness of chicken meat with the intense flavors of vegetables, all wrapped in a crispy bread lid. It is a dish that not only delights the taste buds but also the eyes, offering a special presentation.

Recipe history:
This type of dish has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, often associated with festive meals and family gatherings. The bread that envelops the meat not only helps retain juiciness but also adds a rustic touch, evoking memories from our grandparents' kitchens.

Preparation time:
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 35-40 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

*For the meat:*
- 500 g chicken breast
- 200 g tomatoes (fresh or frozen)
- 100 g olives (green or black, as preferred)
- 1 clove of garlic (pressed)
- 200 ml white wine
- 200 g champignon mushrooms (sliced)
- A handful of chopped fresh parsley
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste

*For the bread lid:*
- 250 g flour
- 125 ml warm water
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 10 g fresh yeast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- A pinch of salt

*For sticking the bread lid:*
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 tablespoons cold water

Preparing the meat:

1. Start by preparing the meat. In a clay or ceramic pot, add the olive oil and the pressed garlic. Heat over medium heat.
2. Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot with the hot oil. Stir occasionally until the meat is lightly browned and turns golden.
3. Pour the white wine into the pot and let it boil until it evaporates, leaving behind savory flavors.
4. Add the olives, diced tomatoes, mushrooms, and chopped parsley. Season with salt, pepper, and add the bay leaves.
5. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly.

Preparing the bread lid:

1. In a bowl, add the flour, dissolved yeast in warm water, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Knead well until you obtain an elastic dough that no longer sticks to your hands.
2. Let the dough rise for 20 minutes, covered with a clean towel, in a warm place.
3. Once the dough has risen, roll it out with a rolling pin into a round sheet larger than the diameter of the pot containing the chicken breast.

Preparing the glue:

1. Mix the flour with cold water until you obtain a smooth paste. This will be used to stick the lid to the pot.
2. Using a brush, coat the edges of the pot with this mixture and lower it slightly on the sides (about 2 cm).

Applying the bread lid:

1. Place the bread lid over the pot with the chicken breast, gently pressing the edges to adhere well to the pot.
2. Trim the excess dough hanging under the 2 cm edge and use it to create two decorative braids.
3. Place the pot in the preheated oven at 220 degrees Celsius. Bake until the bread lid puffs up and turns golden (about 15-20 minutes).

Serving:

Once the dish is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve the chicken breast under the bread lid alongside pieces torn from the crispy lid. This recipe is perfect to be accompanied by a fresh green salad or a glass of white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add extra flavor, try adding some spices like basil or oregano to the meat mixture.
- The bread can be made with different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour, for a healthier option.
- Substitute the mushrooms with zucchini or bell peppers if you prefer different vegetables.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
- Absolutely! Turkey meat is a fantastic alternative and will pair excellently with the other ingredients.

2. Is this dish suitable for a festive meal?
- Definitely! Its impressive appearance and delicious flavors make it ideal for special occasions.

3. What other recipes can I prepare alongside this main dish?
- A creamy vegetable soup or a raw vegetable salad would be excellent to complement the meal.

4. How long can it be kept in the refrigerator?
- The dish can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, but it is best consumed fresh.

This chicken breast under a bread lid is not just a dish, but a culinary experience that will leave pleasant memories. So, don't hesitate to try it and enjoy every bite!