Stuffed chicken in the oven

Baked Stuffed Chicken Recipe

If you're looking for a dish that will impress at a holiday meal or simply want to enjoy a delicious and comforting meal, baked stuffed chicken is the perfect choice. This recipe not only offers a rich and flavorful taste but also carries a story of tradition, often prepared for special occasions. I will show you how to prepare a savory and appetizing stuffed chicken step by step, ensuring you achieve a result worthy of any festive table.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

- 1 deboned chicken (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 800 g chicken liver
- 11 eggs
- 4 slices of stale bread
- 2 bunches of green onions (about 10 stalks)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Sweet paprika, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Fresh rosemary for flavor
- Olive oil or another oil for greasing the pan

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the deboned chicken thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure there are no remnants of bone or skin. Then, dry it with a paper towel. Now it's time to prepare the seasonings. Mix salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Season the chicken both inside and out to ensure every bite is full of flavor.

2. Boiling the eggs and liver:
In a pot, bring 5 of the 11 eggs to a boil. Make sure to boil them for about 10-12 minutes until hard. In the same pot, you can add the chicken liver, which will boil for about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, let them cool slightly, then chop the liver into cubes and dice the boiled eggs.

3. Preparing the stuffing:
In a skillet, add a little oil and sauté the finely chopped green onions along with the chopped parsley. Sauté for a few minutes until they become soft and fragrant. In the meantime, soak the slices of stale bread in warm water, then crumble them and add them to the skillet with the vegetables. Mix well. Add the chopped liver and boiled eggs, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Beat the remaining 6 eggs and add them to the mixture, leaving it on the heat until the composition binds together.

4. Stuffing the chicken:
With the stuffing ready, turn your attention to the chicken. Fill it with the prepared mixture, making sure it is well packed. Use a needle and thread to sew up the skin so that the stuffing does not escape during baking. This is a crucial step to keep the chicken juicy.

5. Baking the chicken:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. In a baking dish, pour a little oil and water, then place the stuffed chicken inside. Add sprigs of fresh rosemary for extra flavor. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for 30 minutes. This step will help retain moisture.

6. Browning the chicken:
After 30 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and allow the chicken to bake for another hour, or until the meat turns golden and crispy. It is important to ensure that the chicken is well cooked, and the juices run clear when pierced.

7. Serving:
Once the chicken is ready, take it out of the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. It can be served warm, but it is just as delicious cold, as an appetizer or main course. You can accompany the stuffed chicken with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.

Useful tips:
- If you prefer not to use chicken liver, you can substitute it with ground pork or beef for a different variation.
- Make sure the stuffing is well seasoned, as the chicken will absorb the flavors from the filling.
- If you don't have fresh rosemary, you can use dried herbs, but the flavor will be more intense with fresh ingredients.

Nutritional benefits:
This dish is rich in protein due to the chicken and eggs, while chicken liver provides an important source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A, iron, and vitamin B12. The bread and vegetables offer fiber and antioxidants.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, it is recommended to let the chicken fully thaw before stuffing and baking it.
- What other sides go well with stuffed chicken?
Stuffed chicken pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, wild rice, or fresh salads.

Possible variations:
You can customize your stuffing by adding various ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms, nuts, or dried fruits for a hint of sweetness. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as sage or thyme.

I hope this baked stuffed chicken recipe inspires you to give it a try! Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and relish the final result with your loved ones. Bon appétit!