Chicken Kiev Recipe

Chicken Kiev holds a special place in my heart. I first tried it at a family gathering, and the contrast between the crispy coating and rich, garlicky butter filling was unforgettable. Since then, it has become a favorite in my home. With its golden crust, tender chicken, and signature garlic-herb butter, it’s hard not to love.

This is more than just a recipe—it’s a dish with a story. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a cozy family meal, or simply to treat yourself, Chicken Kiev delivers comfort and flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Kiev Recipe

  • Flavor-packed: Each bite bursts with juicy chicken and melted herb butter.
  • Perfect texture: Crisp exterior, tender interior, and buttery center.
  • Great make-ahead option: Freeze and cook later—ideal for planning ahead.
  • Elegant yet comforting: Great for guests or a simple family dinner.
  • Customizable: Easily adapted for gluten-free or dairy-free needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Garlic Herb Butter:

  • ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill (optional)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Tip: Soften butter at room temperature for easy mixing.

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Breading:

  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for the egg wash)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup regular breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder

Optional Add-ins:

  • Grated Parmesan in the breading
  • A pinch of cayenne for heat

How to Make Chicken Kiev (Step-by-Step)

1. Make the Garlic Herb Butter

  • Mix softened butter, garlic, parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  • Spoon onto plastic wrap, roll into a log, twist ends, and freeze for 30–45 minutes until firm.

2. Prepare the Chicken

  • Pound chicken breasts between parchment or plastic until about ½-inch thick.
  • Season both sides with salt and pepper.

3. Roll the Chicken

  • Cut chilled butter into 4 equal pieces.
  • Place one piece in the center of each chicken breast.
  • Fold in the sides and roll tightly (like a burrito). Use toothpicks to secure.
  • Chill the rolled chicken for at least 30 minutes to firm up before breading.

4. Bread the Chicken

  • Set up dredging bowls: flour, egg + Dijon, and breadcrumb mixture.
  • Coat chicken in flour, then egg wash, then breadcrumbs.
  • For extra crispiness, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating.

5. Fry and Bake

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Heat 1–2 inches of oil in a skillet to 350°F.
  • Fry each roll 2–3 minutes per side until golden.
  • Transfer to a baking sheet and bake 15–20 minutes or until internal temp hits 165°F.
  • Rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Expert Tips

  • Freeze butter and chill rolls: This keeps the butter from leaking out.
  • Use a thermometer: Ensures the chicken is fully cooked without drying.
  • Double breading: Adds extra crunch.
  • Toothpicks help: Secure the rolls firmly to prevent unwrapping during cooking.
  • Pound evenly: Avoids undercooked or unevenly cooked areas.

Variations & Substitutions

  • Air Fryer: Cook at 375°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute with plant-based butter.
  • Stuffing Twists: Add sun-dried tomatoes, goat cheese, or pesto.
  • Mini Kiev Bites: Use tenders and small butter pieces for appetizers.

Serving Suggestions

  • Mashed or roasted potatoes
  • Steamed green beans or asparagus
  • Simple side salad with vinaigrette
  • Rice pilaf or buttered noodles
  • Dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc

Storage & Reheating

Storing:

  • Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
  • Freeze uncooked, breaded rolls for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

  • Oven: 350°F for 15–20 minutes until hot.
  • Avoid microwave (soggy crust and leaky butter).

Recipe FAQs

Can I make Chicken Kiev ahead?
Yes, freeze the rolled and breaded chicken. Cook straight from frozen, adding 10–15 extra minutes.

Why does the butter leak out?
Butter may not have been firm enough, or the roll wasn’t sealed tight. Chill thoroughly and roll tightly.

Can I bake instead of frying?
Yes, spray lightly with oil and bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes.

Is Chicken Kiev spicy?
Not traditionally. Add chili flakes or cayenne to the breading if you like heat.

What’s the origin?
Chicken Kiev is believed to have roots in Eastern Europe, especially Ukraine and Russia.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 520
  • Protein: 38g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbs: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 430mg

Chicken Kiev is a timeless dish—crispy, juicy, and bursting with buttery flavor. It’s perfect for everything from intimate dinners to festive occasions. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. I hope you give this recipe a try. Let me know how it turns out, and don’t hesitate to share it with fellow food lovers.

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