Oven-baked chicken stuffed with liver

Oven-roasted chicken stuffed with liver - a delicious and comforting recipe that will entice you with its unmistakable aroma and juicy texture. This recipe not only combines simple ingredients but also offers a dish with a depth of flavor that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, get ready to transform a simple meal into an unforgettable culinary experience!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 1 chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 500 g chicken livers
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 4-5 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 glass of water
- 1 glass of white wine
- Spices: salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, basil, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, bay leaves, herbs de Provence

A Brief History

The dish of stuffed chicken with liver has deep roots in culinary traditions, where poultry was often stuffed with various ingredients to create a hearty and flavor-rich meal. This was often a way to utilize every part of the chicken, and the liver stuffing is a classic choice that adds an extra layer of flavor. Of course, every family has its own version and stories related to this dish, and today, I will present our favorite recipe.

Step by Step for a Perfect Chicken

1. Preparing the chicken:
Start by washing the chicken well under cold running water. Then, trim the wing tips for a uniform presentation. Now, place it in a large pot of boiling water and let it boil for 10 minutes. This step will help remove any blood, ensuring that the chicken will be cleaner and healthier.

2. Boiling the livers:
While the chicken is boiling, take the chicken livers and place them in another pot of boiling water. Boil them for 5-7 minutes, then remove and let them cool. The livers are rich in nutrients, being an excellent source of protein, iron, and vitamins.

3. Preparing the stuffing:
Once the livers have cooled, chop them finely. In a bowl, add the chopped livers, chopped fresh parsley, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and oregano. Mix well until all the ingredients are harmoniously combined.

4. Stuffing the chicken:
Now that the stuffing is ready, wash the chicken again and start filling it with the livers. Make sure the stuffing is evenly distributed inside the chicken. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat during baking.

5. Preparing for the oven:
Place the stuffed chicken in a greased baking dish with olive oil. Moisten it with a little olive oil on the outside and season it again with the remaining spices. Add the glass of water and the glass of white wine to the dish, which will help tenderize the meat and create a delicious sauce.

6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish with the stuffed chicken in the oven and let it bake for 90 minutes. Halfway through the baking time, baste the chicken with the remaining wine. This step is essential to keep the meat juicy and full of flavor.

Serving

The stuffed chicken with liver is perfect to be served with a simple side of steamed vegetables or boiled potatoes. It also pairs wonderfully with pickled bell peppers or cucumbers, adding a crunchy and tangy note. If you want to add a touch of freshness, a green salad with tomatoes and onions will perfectly complete the meal.

Practical Tips

- Livers: You can also use turkey or duck livers for a more sophisticated version. Make sure they are fresh and of good quality.
- Spices: Experiment with different herbs. For example, basil and ginger can bring an unusual taste.
- Wine: Choose a dry white wine that pairs well with the dish. You can use the leftover wine to serve at the table, blending the flavors.
- Storage: The stuffed chicken can be kept in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can the stuffed chicken be frozen?
Yes, it is ideal to portion it before freezing for easy reheating.

2. Can I use other fillings?
Absolutely! You can experiment with mushrooms, rice, or vegetables. Each variation will offer a different experience.

3. How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a cooking thermometer; the meat should reach an internal temperature of 75°C.

Nutritional Details

This oven-roasted chicken stuffed with liver provides an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, making it a healthy choice for a family meal. A 200 g serving contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of oil used.

A Personal Note

I fondly remember family meals when my mother prepared this stuffed chicken with liver. The aroma that filled the house and the joy around the table were unforgettable. I hope you bring this joy into your home with this simple and delicious recipe.

So, don't hesitate any longer! Grab the ingredients and let your creativity shine. You will be delighted with the final result and, most importantly, with the smiles of your loved ones around the table!