Easy Chicken Kiev with Garlic Butter Recipe

Discover a simple, delicious Chicken Kiev with Garlic Butter recipe that’s crispy on the outside and bursting with flavorful, buttery garlic inside. This classic dish perfectly balances tender chicken breast wrapped around a rich garlic butter filling, then coated with a crunchy breadcrumb crust. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home, this Chicken Kiev with Garlic Butter will impress with its golden texture and mouthwatering taste that melts in your mouth.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect even if you’re a kitchen beginner.
• Irresistible Flavor: The garlic butter center oozes with rich, savory goodness that elevates every bite.
• Beautiful Presentation: A golden, crispy crust gives this dish a stunning look ideal for dinner parties or family meals.
• Customizable: Easy to tweak with different herbs and seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
• Impresses Everyone: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that tastes way fancier than the effort it takes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Chicken Kiev with Garlic Butter recipe uses simple yet essential ingredients, each adding unique flavor, texture, and color to create an unforgettable dish.

• Chicken Breasts: Skinless, boneless breasts provide a tender, juicy base to wrap the garlic butter inside.
• Butter: Unsalted butter is whipped with garlic and herbs to form the irresistible filling.
• Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced for maximum flavor in the butter filling.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh note and vibrant green color inside the butter.
• All-Purpose Flour: For dredging the chicken and helping the coating stick perfectly.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a glue to bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko or regular breadcrumbs create that signature crispy, golden crust.
• Salt and Pepper: Basics that season the chicken and the butter mixture just right.
• Olive or Vegetable Oil: For frying to a deliciously crisp exterior without using too much grease.

Variations for Chicken Kiev with Garlic Butter

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to customize Chicken Kiev with Garlic Butter to suit your dietary preferences or whatever you have in your pantry.

• Herb Infusion: Add thyme, dill, or tarragon to the garlic butter for additional depth of flavor.
• Cheese Stuffing: Include shredded mozzarella or Parmesan inside the butter for a creamy twist.
• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for those with gluten sensitivity.
• Baking Instead of Frying: Bake the Kievs for a lighter, less greasy option that still keeps a crispy shell.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper into the butter to awaken your taste buds.

How to Make Chicken Kiev with Garlic Butter

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Filling

Start by softening the unsalted butter and mixing it with finely minced garlic and chopped fresh parsley. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then shape the butter into a small log or ball, and chill it briefly in the freezer until firm but still malleable.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Take each chicken breast and carefully slice a pocket or butterfly it open so you can stuff it with the chilled garlic butter. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Pound the chicken lightly to an even thickness for easier rolling and cooking.

Step 3: Stuff and Seal the Chicken

Place a piece of the chilled garlic butter inside each chicken pocket or center, then fold the edges over to seal the butter in completely. Using toothpicks can help keep everything secure during cooking.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Kiev

Set up a three-bowl station: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken breast first in flour, then coat it with egg, and finally cover thoroughly with breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken Kiev

Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat, then carefully fry the breaded chicken breasts until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Finish cooking in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes to ensure the chicken is cooked through and the butter inside is perfectly melted.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Kiev with Garlic Butter

• Butter Consistency: Chill the garlic butter before stuffing to prevent it from leaking during cooking.
• Even Thickness: Pound the chicken breasts evenly to avoid uneven cooking and tearing.
• Sealing: Use toothpicks and press edges firmly to trap the butter inside while frying.
• Double-Coat: For extra crunch, dip the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs twice before frying.
• Temperature Control: Fry on medium heat to avoid burning breadcrumbs while ensuring chicken cooks thoroughly.

How to Serve Chicken Kiev with Garlic Butter

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top for a bright touch that complements the rich garlic butter flavor perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the Chicken Kiev with Garlic Butter.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate the Chicken Kiev whole or slice it diagonally to showcase the luscious garlic butter oozing out, making every bite visually irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Chicken Kiev in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked, breaded Chicken Kiev on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Cook directly from frozen for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and crispy again, avoiding the microwave to keep the crust crisp and the butter center delicious.

FAQs

Can I make Chicken Kiev with garlic butter ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and stuff the chicken breasts in advance, refrigerate or freeze them, then cook just before serving.

What type of breadcrumbs works best?

Panko breadcrumbs create the crispiest crust, but regular breadcrumbs work well if you prefer a finer coating.

How do I prevent the butter from leaking during cooking?

Chilling the garlic butter firmly before stuffing and sealing the chicken tightly with toothpicks reduces the risk of leakage.

Is it possible to bake instead of fry?

Absolutely! Baking at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes creates a lighter option without sacrificing too much crunch.

What can I serve with Chicken Kiev with Garlic Butter?

Classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables complement this rich dish wonderfully.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Chicken Kiev with Garlic Butter recipe. Its combination of crispy exterior and oozing garlic butter filling creates a meal that’s as satisfying as it is memorable. Grab these simple ingredients and enjoy creating a show-stopping dish that’s sure to become one of your favorites for any occasion.

Related Posts

• Crave-Worthy Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce
• Why Irish Pub Burgers Are a Must-Try Delight
• How to Make Light Fluffy Sourdough Focaccia

Print