Chicken Kiev Recipe – Russian Special

Chicken Kiev is a beloved classic from Eastern European cuisine that has won hearts worldwide. This elegant dish features tender chicken breasts stuffed with a rich garlic herb butter filling, breaded, and fried until golden before being finished in the oven. The result is a crispy exterior that gives way to a luscious, buttery center that melts as you cut into it. Traditionally served with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or a fresh salad, Chicken Kiev makes an impressive main course for dinner parties, holidays, or any time you want to bring restaurant-style dining to your home.
- Prep Time25 min
- Cook Time1 hr
- Total Time1 hr 25 min
- Course
- Cuisine
For the Herb Butter Filling:
- 100g (7 tbsp) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Chicken Kiev Instructions:
Mix butter, garlic, parsley, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; shape into a log, wrap in cling film, and freeze until firm.
Butterfly chicken breasts and pound gently to flatten evenly.
Place a piece of frozen herb butter in the center of each breast; fold and roll tightly, sealing edges to enclose filling.
Chill stuffed chicken in the fridge for 30 minutes to firm up.
Coat chicken in flour, dip in beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumbs; repeat for a thicker crust if desired.
Heat oil in a pan; shallow fry chicken until golden on all sides.
Transfer to a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked.
Serve hot with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or salad.
Recipe Notes :
Sealing Technique: Wrap and roll the chicken tightly to lock in the garlic butter center.
Crispy Coating: Panko breadcrumbs give extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
Prevent Leaks: Freezing the butter log before stuffing helps reduce butter seepage.
Make Ahead Tip: Prepare and freeze uncooked Chicken Kiev for a quick gourmet meal later.
Perfect Pairings: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, or a crisp garden salad.
Special Occasion Dish: Ideal for Christmas, family gatherings, or a romantic dinner.
Restaurant-Style Finish: Fry for color and bake for even cooking and juiciness.