Delicious and Succulent Chicken Kiev: A Classic Ukrainian Delight

Chicken Kiev is a quintessentially Ukrainian dish that features chicken fillets rolled around herb-infused butter, breaded, and then fried to golden perfection. This delectable dish is sure to impress with its moist, flavorful chicken and rich, buttery filling. It’s perfect for dinner parties or a special family meal.

Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Prepare the herb butter: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

2. Shape the butter: Turn the butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap, shape it into a log, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.

3. Prepare the chicken breasts: Lay each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin.

4. Assemble the Chicken Kiev: Cut the chilled butter log into four equal pieces. Place one piece of butter in the center of each pounded chicken breast. Fold the sides of the chicken over the butter and roll it up tightly, ensuring the butter is completely enclosed. Use toothpicks to secure if necessary.

5. Bread the chicken: Set up a breading station with three separate bowls—one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken roll in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs.

6. Chill: Place the breaded chicken rolls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.

7. Fry the chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chilled chicken rolls and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.

8. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the browned chicken rolls to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

9. Serve: Remove the toothpicks and serve the Chicken Kiev hot, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Enjoy this flavorful and luxurious Chicken Kiev, a dish that marries the tender juiciness of chicken with the rich, aromatic goodness of herb-infused butter!