Chicken stuffed with butter and herbs

Stuffed Chicken with Butter and Herbs

Are you dreaming of a family Sunday dinner filled with tempting aromas and unforgettable moments? Let me guide you step by step in preparing a delicious stuffed chicken with butter and herbs that will turn any meal into a celebration. This recipe is not only simple but also highly satisfying, giving you a tender and juicy chicken, packed with flavors, perfect for enjoying with your loved ones.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 free-range chicken (approximately 1.5 kg, preferably organic for an authentic taste)
- 1/2 red bell pepper (finely chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (crushed)
- 1 green onion (finely chopped)
- 1 stick of butter (approximately 80 g, at room temperature)
- Dried spices (herbs for chicken - we recommend the Maggi packet for a rich flavor)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon

Preparing the Chicken:

1. Prepare the chicken: Rinse the chicken thoroughly under cold running water and pat it dry with a kitchen towel. Place it breast-side down, legs up, on a clean surface. This step will help fill the chicken evenly.

2. Filling mixture: In a bowl, combine the softened butter, red pepper, crushed garlic, and green onion. Mix well until you achieve a smooth paste. Finally, add the lemon juice and zest, stirring until evenly incorporated. These ingredients will not only add moisture but also a fresh and vibrant flavor to your chicken.

3. Stuffing the chicken: Use a spoon to fill the chicken with the aromatic mixture. Make sure the filling is evenly distributed. Use toothpicks to secure the opening, ensuring the filling doesn’t leak out during cooking.

4. Seasoning: Place the stuffed chicken in a cooking bag (or a roasting bag) along with the dried spices for chicken. This step will intensify the flavors and help maintain juiciness. Seal the bag tightly.

5. Baking: Place the bag with the chicken in a heat-resistant dish and put it in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F). Bake the chicken for 15 minutes on low heat, without opening the oven door, to maintain a constant temperature.

6. Finishing the dish: After 15 minutes, remove the bag from the oven. Take out the toothpicks and place the chicken belly-side down in the roasting dish. Use a spoon to baste the chicken with the juices in the dish. This will help achieve a crispy, golden skin.

7. Browning: Return the chicken to the oven for another 30-40 minutes, or until the skin is beautifully browned and crispy. You can check for doneness using a meat thermometer, which should read 75°C (165°F) in the thickest part of the thigh.

8. Serving: Once the chicken is ready, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before carving. Serve it warm, accompanied by the delicious juices from the dish. You can add sides like steamed vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing the chicken: A free-range, naturally raised chicken will have a richer flavor and better texture than a store-bought one. Buy from local farmers if possible.
- Vegetarian option: If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can use eggplants or zucchinis stuffed with a similar mixture of feta cheese, herbs, and vegetables.
- Retaining moisture: Using a cooking bag helps maintain moisture, but you can achieve similar results by covering the dish with aluminum foil.
- Enhancing flavor: You can also add other fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the butter mixture to intensify the flavors.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How can I check if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F).

2. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, this recipe also works with turkey or pork. Cooking time will vary depending on the type of meat.

3. What sides go well with this chicken?
I recommend mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad to balance the meal.

4. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
You can prepare the chicken a day ahead by stuffing it and keeping it in the refrigerator. Baking can be done on the day of serving.

This stuffed chicken with butter and herbs will delight your senses and surely become a staple recipe in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent with your loved ones!