Chicken Kyiv 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Kyiv is the ultimate comfort food with a luxurious twist. The combination of crispy breadcrumbs, tender chicken, and flavorful garlic butter filling is irresistible. The rich, herbed butter melts inside the chicken as it cooks, infusing every bite with a perfect balance of savory, garlicky goodness. Whether you’re preparing it for a dinner party or just treating yourself to something special, Chicken Kyiv is sure to impress with its flavor and elegant presentation.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs, beaten

• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crispiness)

• Vegetable oil for frying

For the garlic herb butter filling:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional)

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the garlic herb butter:

• In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill (if using), lemon zest (if using), salt, and pepper.

• Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.

• Transfer the butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper and shape it into a log. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until it firms up.

2. Prepare the chicken:

• Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/2-inch thick.

• Cut the chilled garlic herb butter log into 4 equal portions.

• Place one portion of the butter in the center of each chicken breast. Fold the sides of the chicken over the butter, then roll the chicken tightly to seal the butter inside. Secure the ends with toothpicks if needed. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.

3. Bread the chicken:

• Place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in three separate shallow bowls.

• Dredge each stuffed chicken breast in the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, followed by the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.

• Once breaded, set the chicken aside on a plate and repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.

4. Fry the chicken:

• Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken breasts in the pan, cooking for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy. You may need to cook the chicken in batches depending on the size of your pan.

• Use tongs to flip the chicken carefully, ensuring the breading doesn’t come off.

• After frying, remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.

5. Serve:

• Remove the toothpicks from the chicken before serving.

• Serve the Chicken Kyiv immediately while it’s still hot, allowing the garlic herb butter to melt out when cut.

• Optionally, garnish with extra parsley and serve with a side of mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4

Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Kyiv with Cheese: Add a small amount of grated cheese, such as Parmesan or mozzarella, to the garlic butter mixture for a creamy, cheesy twist.

• Herbed Butter Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, tarragon, or rosemary for a unique flavor profile. You can also add a bit of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.

• Vegetarian Option: Try stuffing large mushrooms with garlic butter, then breading and frying them as a vegetarian alternative to Chicken Kyiv.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Chicken Kyiv can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This will help retain the crispy exterior while ensuring the chicken is fully heated inside.

FAQs

1. Can I make Chicken Kyiv in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken up to the point of breading, then refrigerate it for several hours or overnight. Fry the chicken just before serving for the best results.

2. Can I bake Chicken Kyiv instead of frying it?

Yes, you can bake the Chicken Kyiv for a lighter option. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the chicken on a baking sheet, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. You can also spray the chicken with cooking spray or brush it with a little butter for a crispier crust.

3. Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used as a substitute for chicken breasts. They are slightly more flavorful and tender, but make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly since they may cook a bit faster.

4. How can I prevent the garlic butter from leaking out while frying?

To prevent the garlic butter from leaking, make sure the chicken is tightly rolled and securely sealed. Additionally, freezing the stuffed chicken breasts for 15-20 minutes before frying can help the butter stay inside while cooking.

5. Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the garlic butter in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2-3 days. You can also freeze it in logs for future use. Just slice it into portions when you’re ready to use it.

6. Can I make Chicken Kyiv without garlic?

While garlic is a key ingredient in Chicken Kyiv, you can substitute it with other ingredients like shallots or onions for a milder flavor. However, garlic gives the dish its distinctive flavor, so consider using a smaller amount if you prefer a less intense taste.

7. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when tested with a meat thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the chicken to ensure there is no pink and the juices run clear.

8. Can I freeze Chicken Kyiv?

Yes, you can freeze the breaded chicken before frying. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To cook, bake directly from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for about 35-40 minutes, or until golden and fully cooked.

9. Can I use a different filling instead of garlic butter?

While traditional Chicken Kyiv uses garlic butter, you can experiment with other fillings like spinach, herbs, or even cheese. Just be sure to adjust the filling quantity to keep the chicken breasts properly stuffed.

10. How do I serve Chicken Kyiv?

Chicken Kyiv pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. You can also serve it with a tangy dipping sauce, like a lemon aioli or herb-infused cream sauce, to complement the rich flavors of the chicken.

Conclusion

Chicken Kyiv is a luxurious and indulgent dish that brings together crispy breading, tender chicken, and a rich garlic butter filling. With its perfectly balanced textures and bold flavors, it’s the perfect showstopper for a special dinner or any time you want to treat yourself. Whether served with mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, or simply on its own, Chicken Kyiv is a dish that will impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it. It’s a true classic that never goes out of style!