Stuffed chicken

Stuffed Chicken with Rice and Vegetables Recipe

Get ready to delight your taste buds with this delicious stuffed chicken recipe that combines the rich flavors of vegetables and spices. This recipe is perfect for festive meals or a family dinner on the weekend. Not only is it tasty, but it is also very satisfying, with a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful filling.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the chicken:
- 1 whole chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon hot paprika
- 1 teaspoon curry
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 sprig of fresh rosemary

For the filling:
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 200 g rice (preferably long-grain rice)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 handful of fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the chicken
Start by separating the skin from the meat on the chicken breast. Use a sharp knife to do this carefully, so you don’t damage the skin. Once you’re done, you can use the detached meat to make delicious cutlets. Wash the chicken well under cold running water and set it aside to drain.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
In a large skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add the grated carrot and diced red bell pepper, mixing well. Let the vegetables sauté for about 5 minutes until they become tender.

Wash the rice in several waters, then add it to the skillet along with water. Use about 400 ml of water (double the amount of rice). Mix well and let it simmer covered on low heat. When the rice is almost done, add the tomato paste, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix again and let the filling cool.

Step 3: Stuffing the chicken
Fill the chicken with the rice and vegetable mixture, being careful not to overstuff it to avoid breaking the skin. Use kitchen twine to sew up the opening of the chicken, ensuring that the filling won’t leak out during baking. This step is essential to keep the meat juicy.

Step 4: Marinating the chicken
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, hot paprika, curry, salt, and pepper. Use a kitchen brush to coat the chicken with the marinade, ensuring that every part is evenly covered. This marinade will add intense flavor and help achieve a crispy crust.

Step 5: Baking the chicken
Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the chicken in a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Add a little oil to the dish to prevent sticking. Bake the chicken for about 1 hour, or until the skin is golden and crispy, and the meat is well done. You can use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 75°C.

Serving and Suggestions
Once the chicken is ready, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This step is important as it allows the juices to return to the meat, giving it a juicy texture. Serve it with a fresh seasonal salad or side dishes like mashed potatoes or grilled vegetables.

Recipe History
Stuffed chicken is a recipe that has been cherished for generations, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Over time, each region has adapted the recipe, adding its own ingredients and techniques. This versatility makes stuffed chicken a popular choice for festive meals and celebrations.

Nutritional Benefits
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and the rice and vegetable filling brings plenty of fiber and vitamins. This recipe is nutritionally balanced and can be a healthy option for a family dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Of course! This recipe is versatile, and you can use turkey or duck meat based on your preferences.

2. What other spices can I add?
Experimentation is key! You can try spices like garlic powder, thyme, or even cumin to add a unique touch.

3. How can I store leftover chicken?
Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. You can use the leftover meat in soups or salads.

4. What drinks pair well with this dish?
A dry white wine or a fresh lemonade are excellent choices to accompany this stuffed chicken. Additionally, a craft beer can provide a pleasant contrast to the chicken's flavors.

Recipe Variations
For an oriental touch, you can add spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to the filling. You can also replace the rice with quinoa or bulgur for a healthier option.

This stuffed chicken recipe with rice and vegetables is not only a delicious way to enjoy a hearty meal but also a cooking experience that will bring joy and stories around the table. So, put on your apron and enjoy every step of this culinary process!