If you're looking for a delicious and filling meal, consider trying Chicken Kiev. One serving of this classic dish contains 556 calories, making it a great choice for those who need to refuel after a long day or intense workout. With its crispy, golden exterior and savory filling, Chicken Kiev is a crowd-pleaser that's sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

In addition to being a tasty treat, Chicken Kiev is also packed with essential nutrients. Each serving contains significant amounts of protein, vitamin A, and calcium, making it a nutritious option for anyone looking to improve their diet. Plus, the dish pairs well with a wide range of ingredients, allowing you to customize your meal to your liking.

In this article, we'll explore the history and origins of Chicken Kiev, provide nutritional information about the dish, show you how to cook it from scratch, and suggest some of our favorite side dishes to pair it with. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a total beginner in the kitchen, there's something for everyone.

What is Chicken Kiev?

Chicken Kiev is a popular Ukrainian dish consisting of a boneless chicken breast that's pounded thin, rolled around a flavored butter filling, breaded, and then deep-fried or baked. The dish is believed to have originated in the late 19th century in Kiev, the capital city of Ukraine. Today, Chicken Kiev is enjoyed all over the world and is a staple on many restaurant menus. The butter filling is what sets Chicken Kiev apart from other chicken dishes. Typically, the filling is made by mixing softened butter with garlic, parsley, dill, and sometimes other herbs and spices. The butter is then chilled until it's firm enough to be scooped into a cylindrical shape and wrapped in the chicken breast. When cooked, the butter melts and infuses the chicken with rich, savory flavors. The breading adds a crispy texture to the dish, making it even more enjoyable to eat.

Origin of Chicken Kiev

The origins of Chicken Kiev are somewhat murky, but it's widely believed to have originated in Kiev, Ukraine, hence the name. The dish's exact origins are difficult to trace, but it's thought to have been created in the late 19th century by French chefs who were working in Kiev at the time. The dish quickly became popular among both locals and visitors to Kiev, and it wasn't long before it started to spread across Europe and eventually to other parts of the world. Today, Chicken Kiev is enjoyed by millions of people around the world and is a beloved classic of Ukrainian and Eastern European cuisine.

Caloric Value of One Serving of Chicken Kiev

One serving of Chicken Kiev contains approximately 556 calories. This calorie count may vary slightly depending on the size of the chicken breast used and the cooking method. While this dish is higher in calories than some other chicken dishes, it's also high in protein, which can help you feel full and satisfied for longer periods of time. Plus, if you're watching your calorie intake, you can always pair Chicken Kiev with a healthy side dish, such as a vegetable salad or roasted vegetables.

Nutritional Information of Chicken Kiev

In addition to being a good source of protein, Chicken Kiev also contains a number of other essential nutrients. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional information in one serving of Chicken Kiev:

• calories: 556
• Protein: 48g
• Fat: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Calcium: 4% of the Daily Value
• Vitamin A: 10% of the Daily Value

While Chicken Kiev can be a healthy meal choice when eaten in moderation, it should be enjoyed as part of a balanced and varied diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Ingredients of Chicken Kiev

To make Chicken Kiev from scratch, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts, pounded thin
• 8 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil, for frying (optional)

If you prefer to save time, you can also purchase pre-made Chicken Kiev at many grocery stores and specialty food shops.

How to Cook Chicken Kiev

Here's a step-by-step guide for making Chicken Kiev at home:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the butter, garlic, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper.
3. On a cutting board, place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap or wax paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound the chicken as thin as possible without tearing it (about 1/4 in. thick).
4. Remove the plastic wrap from each chicken breast, and place two tablespoons of the butter mixture in the center of each breast.
5. Roll each chicken breast around the butter mixture, tucking in the sides to create a tight seal.
6. In three separate bowls, place the flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
7. Dredge each rolled chicken breast in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip into the beaten egg mixture, and finally coat with the breadcrumbs.
8. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
9. If desired, you can also fry the chicken Kiev in vegetable oil for a more authentic texture. To do so, heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, place the breaded chicken breasts in the skillet and fry for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
10. Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Chicken Kiev pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Kiev

Chicken Kiev is a versatile dish that can be served with a wide range of side dishes. Here are a few of our favorite serving suggestions:

• Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers
• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Steamed rice or quinoa
• A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing
• Crusty French bread or dinner rolls
• Roasted or sautéed mushrooms
• Creamy coleslaw

Experiment with different combinations and find the pairing that works best for you. And if you're feeling adventurous, try making your own variations on the classic Chicken Kiev recipe, such as switching out the herbs or adding other ingredients to the butter filling.

Health Benefits and Risks of Chicken Kiev

As we've mentioned, Chicken Kiev can be a healthy meal option when eaten in moderation as part of a balanced and varied diet. However, like any food, it comes with its own set of potential health benefits and risks. On the one hand, Chicken Kiev is a great source of protein, which can help you feel fuller for longer and support muscle growth and repair. Plus, the vitamins and minerals in the dish can help strengthen bones and boost immunity. However, Chicken Kiev is also high in calories and fat, especially if it's fried. If you're trying to lose weight or watch your calorie intake, Chicken Kiev may not be the best choice for you. Additionally, if you have any food sensitivities or allergies to the ingredients in Chicken Kiev, you'll want to avoid the dish or find a way to modify the recipe to fit your needs.

Variations of Chicken Kiev

If you're a fan of Chicken Kiev but want to switch things up, there are plenty of variations on the classic recipe you can try. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Swap out the herbs in the butter filling for other seasonings, such as lemon zest, thyme, or rosemary.
• Add different ingredients to the butter filling, such as chopped sun-dried tomatoes, blue cheese, or pesto.
• Use different types of meat, such as turkey or pork, instead of chicken.
• Try baking the Chicken Kiev instead of frying it for a healthier option.
• Make mini Chicken Kiev bites by rolling the butter mixture into small balls and wrapping them in bite-sized pieces of chicken.

Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create a variation on the classic Chicken Kiev that's uniquely your own.

Alternative Low-Calorie Dishes to Chicken Kiev

If you're looking for a healthier alternative to Chicken Kiev, there are plenty of low-calorie dishes you can try that are just as filling and delicious. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Grilled chicken breast served with roasted vegetables
• Turkey meatballs with marinara sauce and zucchini noodles
• Cauliflower rice stir-fry with plenty of veggies and lean protein
• Baked salmon with herbed quinoa pilaf
• Skinny chicken parmesan with a side salad

These dishes are all low in calories and packed with essential nutrients. Plus, they're easy to make and taste great, making them a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan.