Cypriot stuffed chicken breast

Delicious Cypriot Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe

If you are looking for a quick, simple, yet extremely tasty recipe, the Cypriot stuffed chicken breast is the perfect choice. This recipe not only impresses with its flavors but also with its easy preparation. Get ready to transform a common ingredient like chicken breast into a sophisticated dish!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients:

- 1 large boneless chicken breast
- 3 pieces of sun-dried tomatoes (in oil or sun-dried)
- 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon of finely chopped basil
- 100 g goat feta cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- Olive oil, for frying

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the sun-dried tomatoes. They will add an intense flavor and a special taste to the dish. In a bowl, combine the tomatoes with the parsley, basil, feta cheese, lemon zest, and crushed garlic. Mix well until you achieve a homogeneous composition.

2. Seasoning: Taste the filling and season with salt and pepper, making sure to check the salt level of the feta cheese. If it is salty, you can omit the additional salt.

3. Preparing the chicken breast: Cut the chicken breast in half, but not all the way through, so that you form a pocket. Use a sharp knife to avoid damaging the meat.

4. Filling the breast: Fill each pocket with the cheese and sun-dried tomato mixture. Press gently to seal the filling inside the breast.

5. Cooking the chicken: Heat a little olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Place the stuffed chicken breast in the pan, skin-side down. Let it brown for 5-7 minutes.

6. Covering: Turn the chicken breast over, then cover the pan with a piece of damp parchment paper. This will help retain moisture and make the meat juicier. Cook for 10 minutes.

7. Finishing cooking: Turn the breast again and cook for another 10 minutes until the meat is well cooked but remains juicy.

8. Serving: Slice the chicken breast and serve it with your favorite sides. I recommend roasted potatoes, which pair perfectly with the flavors of this dish. You can add a fresh salad for a contrast of textures.

Practical tips:

- Vegetarian option: If you want to prepare a vegetarian version, you can replace the chicken breast with large mushrooms stuffed with the same mixture.
- Prepare in advance: You can prepare the filling a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. This way, you will save time on the day of preparation.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you will need to cook them a bit to concentrate the flavor.

Nutritional benefits:

This stuffed chicken breast recipe is not only delicious but also healthy. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, and feta cheese provides calcium and protein. Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, and herbs like basil and parsley contribute to vitamin intake.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can another type of meat be used? Yes, you can replace the chicken breast with turkey or even fish, such as salmon.
2. How can I check if the chicken is cooked? Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 75°C.
3. What sides do you recommend? Roasted potatoes are the ideal choice, but mashed potatoes or a fresh vegetable salad will also perfectly complement the dish.

Personal note: I remember the first time I tried this recipe, I was very nervous, but the result was a true revelation. The aroma of lemon and fresh herbs filled the entire kitchen, and the whole family was thrilled. This recipe not only offers a wonderful taste but also creates unforgettable moments at the family table.

So, don’t hesitate to try this Cypriot stuffed chicken breast recipe and bring a touch of flavor to your kitchen!