Chicken stuffed with onion and peas

Stuffed Chicken with Onion and Peas – A Delicacy for the Soul

Discover the charm of a classic recipe that will bring joy to your table! The stuffed chicken with onion and peas is not just a savory dish, but also a culinary story that blends tradition with delicate flavors. This recipe, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, will transform your meal into an unforgettable feast.

Total Time: 26 hours (24 hours marinating + 2 hours baking)
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 2 hours
Number of Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 4 medium onions, julienned
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 3-4 allspice berries
- Ground pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 300 ml water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon hot paprika
- 2 garlic cloves, sliced
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Start by washing the chicken thoroughly under cold running water. Pat it dry with a paper towel, being careful not to tear the skin. This is an important step, as the skin will help retain moisture in the meat.

Helpful Tip: Choose a quality chicken, preferably free-range. This will enhance the final flavor of the dish.

Step 2: Marinating the Chicken

Carefully debone the chicken breast, leaving the skin intact. In a large bowl, combine water, soy sauce, sugar, salt, pepper, sweet paprika, hot paprika, bay leaves, allspice, and garlic. Mix well.

Place the chicken in the marinade, ensuring it is completely covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for 24 hours. This step will enrich the meat with delicious flavors and make it extremely tender.

Personalized Option: Add Herbs

For a personal touch, you can add a few sprigs of rosemary or thyme to the marinade. These will bring a special flavor to the chicken.

Step 3: Preparing the Filling

About 30 minutes before removing the chicken from the marinade, heat a pan with a little olive oil. Add the julienned onions and sauté over medium heat until they become translucent, about 8-10 minutes. Add the peas (either fresh or frozen) and let them cook for a few more minutes to soften.

Step 4: Stuffing the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the marinade and, using a spoon, fill the cavity between the skin and bone with the onion and pea mixture. Make sure the filling is well distributed.

An essential tip: If you want the filling to remain moist, you can add a few tablespoons of the marinade to the filling mixture.

Step 5: Baking the Chicken

Preheat the oven to 150°C. Place the stuffed chicken in a baking dish and pour the remaining marinade over it. Cover the dish with aluminum foil for the first half hour of baking. This will help retain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out.

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 1 hour and 30 minutes, basting the chicken occasionally with the sauce from the dish. In the last 20 minutes, brush the chicken with a little olive oil to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.

Step 6: Serving the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked (the meat easily pulls away from the bones), remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This will help the juices redistribute in the meat, making it even juicier.

Serving Suggestion: Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or mashed potatoes. A glass of white wine or freshly squeezed lemonade with mint will perfectly complement this dish.

Nutritional Information

Serving (1/4 chicken):
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a boneless chicken?
Yes, you can use a boneless chicken, but the baking time will be significantly reduced. Monitor the meat temperature closely to ensure it is cooked properly.

2. Can I replace the peas with another ingredient?
Absolutely! You can add sautéed mushrooms or grated carrots for a varied filling.

3. How can I store leftover chicken?
Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Conclusion

Stuffed chicken with onion and peas is more than just a recipe; it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and love with which this dish was prepared. Don't forget to play with the ingredients and add a personal touch to your recipe. Enjoy your meal!