Chicken pieces with cheese

Chicken bites with cheese: A perfect spring lunch!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Number of servings: 4

If you're looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe, chicken bites with cheese are the ideal choice. This dish not only combines delicious textures and flavors but is also a perfect option for an outdoor lunch, enjoying the beautiful spring weather.

A bit of history
Chicken dishes are highly appreciated worldwide, and the combination with cheese makes this dish even more beloved. The origins of this type of dish are lost in the mists of time, but it is known that people have always found pleasure in frying meat, adding various cheeses to enhance the flavor. So, let us be inspired by this culinary tradition and get cooking!

Ingredients
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500g)
- 2 eggs
- 100g flour
- 200g thin slices of light cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for frying (approximately 150ml)

Ingredient details
- Chicken breast: Choose a fresh, skinless chicken breast for a healthier dish. You can also use chicken from organic sources if available.
- Eggs: Use fresh eggs to achieve a crispy and delicious coating.
- Flour: White flour is the most commonly used, but you can opt for whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- Cheese: Choose a light cheese to reduce calorie intake without compromising taste. The cheese will melt beautifully and add a delicious flavor.
- Oil: Use sunflower or olive oil, which withstands high temperatures well.

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breast into pieces or cubes about 3-4 cm in size. These dimensions are ideal for frying evenly and quickly. Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to season evenly.

2. Preparing for frying
In a separate bowl, beat the two eggs with a pinch of salt. Prepare another bowl with flour. Now comes the moment when the chicken will be coated in delicious layers. Take each piece of chicken, first dip it in flour, ensuring it is well coated, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally return to the flour for a second time. This process will create a crispy crust.

3. Frying the chicken
In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it well. Test if the oil is ready for frying by throwing in a small piece of batter; if it sizzles, it's time to add the chicken bites. Fry the chicken over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Do not overcrowd the pan; fry in batches if necessary.

4. Transferring to the oven
Once the chicken is fried, transfer it to a baking dish. Place the slices of cheese on top of the chicken pieces. Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the dish in the oven. Leave it there for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and becomes delightfully stretchy.

5. Serving
For a special presentation, serve the chicken bites with cheese on fresh slices of tomatoes and alongside a crispy green salad. You can also add some fresh basil leaves for an extra aroma.

Useful tips
- You can also add herbs to the flour mixture for extra flavor, such as oregano, thyme, or paprika.
- If you prefer a healthier version, you can bake the chicken instead of frying it. Cover it with a little olive oil and season well before placing it in the oven.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a yogurt sauce with dill or homemade mayonnaise.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I substitute the cheese with another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with mozzarella or cheddar cheese, depending on your preferences.

2. What side dishes go best with this dish?
A fresh salad, fries, or mashed potatoes are excellent options.

3. How can I store leftovers?
The chicken bites with cheese can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to regain their crispy texture.

Nutritional benefits
This chicken and cheese recipe is not only delicious but also rich in protein due to the chicken and eggs. The cheese adds additional calcium and protein. Served with salad, you get a balanced meal full of vitamins and minerals.

Calories
Approximately, a serving of this dish has about 400-450 calories, depending on the amount of oil used and the type of cheese.

Possible variations
- You can add vegetables of your choice (bell peppers, mushrooms) to the baking dish for an even more flavorful meal.
- If you want to turn the recipe into an appetizer, you can make mini chicken bites using smaller pieces of meat.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! Chicken bites with cheese are a perfect choice to enjoy spring outdoors with loved ones. Enjoy your meal!