Garlic Butter Stuffed Chicken Breast, also known as Chicken Kiev, is a classic dish that’s sure to impress with its rich, savory flavors. This recipe features tender chicken breasts filled with a luscious lemon garlic herb butter, then breaded and sautéed to golden perfection. The result is a mouthwatering meal that’s crispy on the outside and incredibly juicy on the inside. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this stuffed chicken breast recipe will become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients for Stuffed Chicken Breast:
- 4 large chicken breasts (12 oz each)
- 1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 cups Panko bread crumbs
- Extra light olive oil or canola oil for sautéing
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Herb Butter:
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 large garlic clove, minced
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice, plus more for drizzling on finished chicken
- 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Directions:
- Prepare the Lemon Garlic Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the room temperature butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, chopped parsley, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended. Place the mixture on a piece of plastic wrap, shape into a log, and refrigerate until firm.
- Prep the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and gently flatten with a meat mallet to an even thickness. Season both sides with sea salt and black pepper.
- Stuff the Chicken: Cut the chilled butter into slices. Place a slice of butter in the center of each flattened chicken breast. Fold the sides over the butter, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Bread the Chicken: Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in flour, dip into beaten eggs, and then coat thoroughly with Panko bread crumbs.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sauté until golden brown on both sides and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle with additional lemon juice and serve hot.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe offers a balance of protein and healthy fats:
- High Protein: Chicken breasts are an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Healthy Fats: The unsalted butter provides healthy fats, which help absorb fat-soluble vitamins and add to the satiety of the meal.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Fresh parsley and lemon juice add vitamins A and C, contributing to immune health and antioxidant benefits.
Cooking Tips
- Flattening the Chicken: Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness, which helps them cook evenly.
- Chilling the Butter: Ensure the butter is well-chilled before slicing. This makes it easier to handle and prevents it from melting too quickly during cooking.
- Breading the Chicken: Press the Panko bread crumbs firmly onto the chicken to ensure a good coating that stays crispy during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- As a Main Dish: Serve the chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- For Special Occasions: Pair with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
- With Sauces: Drizzle additional lemon juice or serve with a side of creamy garlic sauce for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed and breaded chicken breasts ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator and cook just before serving.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to maintain the crispiness of the breading.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Garlic Butter Stuffed Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that combines simplicity with sophistication. The buttery, garlicky filling oozes out as you cut into the crispy chicken, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. This recipe is straightforward enough for beginners yet impressive enough for experienced cooks looking to elevate their dinner game. The balance of flavors from the lemon, garlic, and herbs makes this a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of sides, ensuring it becomes a beloved staple in your recipe collection.