Chicken Kiev – Butter-Stuffed Chicken Dish

Golden, crispy Chicken Kiev served on a plate, garnished with fresh herbs

Chicken Kiev Recipe: A Crispy, Buttery Hug for Your Taste Buds

Let’s talk about Chicken Kiev. A dish that’s equal parts fancy and comforting. Golden, crispy chicken hides a secret: melted butter bursting with flavour. It’s indulgence wrapped in crunch, perfect for dinner parties or lazy weekends. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or revisiting an old favourite, this recipe will guide you step-by-step.

Now, grab your apron and let’s whip up this timeless classic. But be warned: the buttery goodness will haunt your dreams.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Chicken Kiev

For the butter filling:

  • 100g unsalted butter (room temp)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • A squeeze of lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt

For the chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 100g plain flour
  • 150g breadcrumbs
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For frying:

  • Vegetable oil (enough for shallow frying)

Let’s Get Cooking

  1. Make the Magic Butter
    Mash the butter, garlic, parsley, lemon, and salt in a bowl. This is the star of your Chicken Kiev. Shape it into a log using cling film, then freeze it. Yes, freeze it! Frozen butter makes stuffing the chicken easier.
  1. Prep the Chicken
    Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally, but don’t cut all the way through. Flatten them gently with a mallet. Whisper to them, “You’ll be delicious.”
    Place a chunk of frozen butter in the centre of each piece. Fold the chicken tightly around the butter. Secure the edges with toothpicks. Think of it as wrapping a buttery gift.
  1. Coat Like a Pro
    Set up your dipping station. Three bowls: flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken ball in flour first. Then, dip it in egg and roll it in breadcrumbs. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for extra crispiness.
    Pro tip: Double-coating means double crunch!
  1. Fry and Bake
    Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Shallow fry the chicken until golden brown on all sides. You’re not cooking it through yet, just giving it a gorgeous crust.
    Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake at 180°C for 15 minutes. The butter inside will melt into a heavenly pool.
Chicken Kiev cut in half, revealing the golden, buttery interior, garnished with herbs.

Cut through the crispy exterior to reveal a decadent, buttery surprise inside—pure indulgence in every bite!

  1. Serve and Bask in Glory
    Remove the toothpicks (no surprises for your guests). Serve your Chicken a la Kiev hot with a side of mashed potatoes or green beans.
    Cutting into it reveals the buttery centre. Watch it ooze onto the plate. It’s pure joy.

What About Mini Chicken Kievs?

Mini chicken kievs are bite-sized versions of the classic dish. Use smaller chicken fillets and reduce frying and baking times. These are perfect for appetisers or snack platters.

Variations to Try

  • Cheesy Twist: Add shredded mozzarella to the butter filling.
  • Herb Explosion: Experiment with dill, chives, or tarragon.
  • Spicy Kick: Add chilli flakes to the butter for a fiery version.

Tips for Perfect Chicken a la Kiev

  1. Freeze the Butter: Always freeze the butter to avoid leaks.
  2. Seal Well: Toothpicks are your best friend. Use them generously.
  3. Double-Coat: It’s the secret to the ultimate crunch.
  4. Control the Oil Temperature: Too hot, and it burns. Too cold, and it gets soggy.

A Bite of History

Did you know Chicken Kiev isn’t necessarily Ukrainian? Its origins are debated, but one thing is clear: it’s loved worldwide. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but achievable.

Whether served as chicken kiev dishes or as elegant chicken kiev ball appetisers, its buttery charm is universal.

What’s Chicken a la Kiev?

Chicken Kiev is crispy-coated chicken stuffed with herby garlic butter. It’s fried to perfection and baked for extra magic. Think of it as comfort food in a tuxedo. The first bite explodes with buttery joy, while the crispy shell keeps everything gloriously intact.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • It’s easier than you think.
  • Buttery, garlicky filling melts in your mouth.
  • Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside.
  • You can make mini chicken kievs for appetisers too!
  • It looks and tastes fancy, but anyone can nail it.

Why You Need to Try This

There’s something magical about slicing into Chicken a la Kiev and watching the butter cascade out. It’s like a food lover’s version of opening a treasure chest.

The crispy coating gives way to tender chicken and herby butter. It’s a sensory delight you’ll crave again and again.

Leftovers? Not a Chance

But if you somehow have leftovers, here’s an idea: turn them into sandwiches! Slice the chicken and layer it with lettuce and mayo. The buttery filling becomes a spread of dreams.

Final Thoughts

Making Chicken a la Kiev at home is easier than you think. It’s a recipe that impresses every single time. You’ll fall in love with the buttery surprise hiding inside the crispy shell.

Whether you make the classic dish or experiment with mini chicken kievs, the result is always satisfying.

So, roll up your sleeves and give this chicken a la kiev recipe a try. Trust me, it’s worth it. The buttery goodness will make your heart sing.

Happy cooking!