Authentic Chicken Kyiv Котлета По-Київськи
Chicken Kyiv (or Kiev) is perhaps Ukraine's most famous culinary export - a succulent chicken breast pounded thin, wrapped around cold herb butter, then coated in a crispy breadcrumb shell. When cut open, the butter melts into a sauce that flavors the tender chicken. This elegant dish originated in Ukraine's capital and has become an iconic symbol of Ukrainian cuisine worldwide.
Ingredients Інгредієнти
For the Herb Butter:
- 200g (7 oz) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Breading:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3 eggs, beaten
- 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably fresh)
- Vegetable oil for frying
For Serving:
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh herbs for garnish
- Mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables (optional side dishes)
Recipe Notes:
- For best results, use high-quality butter with at least 82% fat content.
- The herb butter can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and kept frozen.
- You can substitute dill with tarragon or chives for a different flavor profile.
Instructions Інструкції
Prepare the Herb Butter:
- In a bowl, combine softened butter, chopped parsley, dill, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Transfer the butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Shape into a log about 4 inches long and 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Wrap tightly in the plastic, twisting the ends to secure. Place in the freezer for at least 30 minutes or until firm.
Prepare the Chicken:
- Place one chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, carefully pound the chicken to about 1/4 inch thickness, working from the center outward. Be careful not to tear the meat.
- Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts.
- Season both sides of each flattened chicken breast with salt and pepper.
Assemble the Chicken Kyiv:
- Remove the herb butter from the freezer and cut into 4 equal pieces.
- Place a piece of frozen herb butter in the center of each flattened chicken breast.
- Fold the sides of the chicken over the butter, then roll up tightly like a burrito, ensuring the butter is completely enclosed.
- Secure with toothpicks if necessary to keep the chicken closed. The butter must be completely sealed inside to prevent leaking during cooking.
Bread the Chicken:
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Carefully coat each chicken roll in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring complete coverage.
- Finally, coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- For an extra crispy coating, dip the breaded chicken back into the eggs and then into the breadcrumbs a second time.
- Place the breaded chicken rolls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to help the coating set.
Cooking Method 1: Deep Frying (Traditional):
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pan to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to submerge the chicken at least halfway.
- Carefully lower the chicken rolls into the hot oil, cooking 2 at a time to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for 5-6 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Method 2: Baking (Healthier Alternative):
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the breaded chicken rolls on the prepared baking sheet. Spray or drizzle lightly with oil for better browning.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serving:
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Remove any toothpicks used to secure the rolls.
- Slice each roll diagonally to reveal the herb butter center.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Kyiv Поради для Ідеальної Котлети По-Київськи
- Temperature Matters: The butter must be frozen solid before assembly, and the breaded chicken should be well-chilled before cooking to prevent the butter from leaking out.
- Pounding Technique: Use gentle, even strokes when pounding the chicken to avoid tearing. The thickness should be uniform to ensure even cooking.
- Secure Wrapping: The key to a successful Chicken Kyiv is properly sealing the butter inside the chicken. If there are any openings, the butter will escape during cooking.
- Double Breading: For an extra crispy coating that helps seal in the butter, don't skip the double breading process (going through egg and breadcrumbs twice).
- Oil Temperature: If frying, maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C). Too hot, and the coating will burn before the chicken cooks; too cool, and the chicken will absorb too much oil.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and prevents the butter from immediately running out.
Cultural Significance Культурне Значення
Chicken Kyiv's origins are somewhat debated, but it is firmly established as one of Ukraine's most recognized culinary contributions to global cuisine. The dish became particularly prominent in the mid-20th century and was often served in prestigious restaurants in Kyiv to impress foreign dignitaries.
The name "Chicken Kyiv" (using the Ukrainian spelling of the capital city rather than the Russian "Kiev") reflects Ukraine's cultural identity and culinary heritage. In recent years, there has been a movement to use the spelling "Kyiv" internationally, respecting Ukrainian language and sovereignty.
In Ukrainian culture, Chicken Kyiv represents both traditional cooking techniques and modern culinary finesse. It showcases the importance of fresh herbs in Ukrainian cuisine and the skill involved in creating complex, multi-step dishes for special occasions.
Today, Chicken Kyiv can be found on menus worldwide, though often in simplified forms. The authentic version remains a point of pride in Ukraine and is served at important celebrations and in upscale restaurants that honor traditional Ukrainian cuisine.
Nutrition Information Інформація про Поживність
(Per serving - 1 chicken roll, fried method)
*Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods. Baked version will have lower fat content.
Comments Коментарі
Viktor Lysenko
May 22, 2023As a Ukrainian chef, I appreciate the authenticity of this recipe. The detailed instructions are spot-on! One additional tip: I like to add a tiny pinch of nutmeg to the herb butter for an extra layer of flavor that complements the dill beautifully.
Sarah Williams
June 3, 2023I was intimidated to try making Chicken Kyiv, but your step-by-step instructions gave me confidence. I used the baking method and it turned out perfectly! The butter remained inside and created a wonderful sauce when cut open. My family was very impressed!
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