Stuffed chicken with pastrama

Stuffed Chicken with Pastrama - A Delightful Treat for Family Evening

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to your kitchen! Today, I will present you with a delicious and easy-to-make recipe: Stuffed Chicken with Pastrama. This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken breast with the rich flavors of pastrama and a savory filling, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. The culinary journey we will embark on together will transform a simple evening into a memorable moment.

The history of the stuffed chicken recipe is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Meat fillings are an ingenious way to add flavor and substance to dishes, and the combination with pastrama brings a festive note.

Ingredients:

- 4 pieces of chicken breast
- 4 slices of chicken pastrama
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 small red onion
- 3 ripe tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of breadcrumbs
- 50 g grated cheese
- Side dish:
- 1 cup of rice
- 3 mushrooms
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparing the filling:

1. Start by preparing the delicious filling. In a skillet heated over medium heat, add the olive oil.
2. Sauté the previously crushed garlic cloves until golden and fragrant. This is the tasty base of your filling.
3. Add the finely chopped red onion and let it sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent.
4. Peel the tomatoes and remove the seeds, then dice them. Add them to the skillet and cook everything for 4-5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the tomatoes soften and release their juice.
5. Finally, add the breadcrumbs and grated cheese, mixing well. Set the filling aside and let it cool slightly.

Preparing the chicken:

6. Take each piece of chicken breast and make a cut on the side, forming a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through, wanting to keep the filling inside.
7. Stuff each pocket with a slice of pastrama and a tablespoon of the prepared filling. Use toothpicks to close the pockets, ensuring that the filling will not leak during cooking.

Cooking the chicken:

8. In the same skillet where you prepared the filling, add a little oil and heat it over medium heat. Carefully place the stuffed chicken pieces in the skillet, frying them on both sides until nicely browned, about 5-7 minutes on each side.

The perfect side dish:

9. Meanwhile, you can prepare the side dish. Cook a cup of rice according to the package instructions. In a separate skillet, add a little oil and sauté the sliced mushrooms until golden. You can add salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.

Serving:

10. Serve the stuffed chicken hot, alongside a portion of rice and sautéed mushrooms. You can garnish the plate with a few fresh parsley leaves for a pleasant appearance. This recipe pairs perfectly with a glass of white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Practical tips and tricks:

- Make sure the pastrama you use is of good quality, as it will affect the final flavor of the dish.
- If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the pastrama with slices of cheese or sautéed vegetables.
- You can also add some herbs to the filling, such as basil or oregano, for an extra flavor boost.

Frequently asked questions:

- How can I store the stuffed chicken?
Answer: The stuffed chicken keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container.

- Can I freeze the stuffed chicken?
Answer: Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken. Make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.

Nutritional benefits:

Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, and pastrama adds flavor without loading too many calories. This recipe is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the vegetables used, and mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants.

I hope this Stuffed Chicken with Pastrama recipe will become one of your favorites! Whether you prepare it for a special dinner or just to treat your family, the result will surely be delicious. Enjoy your meal!