Easy Chicken Kiev – Juicy, Crispy & Flavor-Packed
Make a classic favorite at home with this Easy Chicken Kiev recipe. Tender chicken breasts are stuffed with garlic butter, breaded, and baked or fried to golden perfection. Perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or a family-friendly meal that’s impressive yet simple to make!
Equipment
- Baking dish or ovenproof skillet
- Skillet or frying pan for shallow frying
- Mixing bowls
- Plastic wrap for butter shaping
- Meat mallet (for flattening chicken)
- Whisk and spatula
- Tongs and slotted spoon
- Food thermometer
Ingredients
For the Garlic Herb Butter:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- Optional: paprika for seasoning breadcrumbs
- Oil for frying or drizzling if baking
Instructions
- Prepare Garlic Herb Butter: Mix softened butter with garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Shape into small logs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Flatten Chicken: Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and gently pound to about 1/2-inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- Stuff Chicken: Place a butter log in the center of each breast. Fold and roll chicken to encase butter completely, securing seams with toothpicks.
- Coat Chicken: Set up a breading station: flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Dredge each breast in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
Cook Chicken:
- Fry Option: Heat oil over medium heat, fry 2–3 minutes per side until golden. Transfer to a baking dish and finish in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Bake Option: Place coated chicken in a greased baking dish, drizzle lightly with oil, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Rest & Serve: Remove toothpicks, let chicken rest 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or salad.
Notes
- Butter Logs: Chilling butter logs is essential to prevent leaks during cooking.
- Even Flattening: Ensures consistent cooking and prevents overcooked edges.
- Breadcrumb Options: Panko adds extra crunch; paprika or herbs enhance flavor.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate or freeze before cooking. Bake or fry fresh.
- Optional Variations: Add mozzarella or Gruyère alongside garlic butter for a cheesy center, or incorporate cayenne for mild heat.
- Avoid Microwaving: Reheating in the oven preserves crispy coating and buttery filling.