Air fryer chicken Kyiv is a delightful dish that features tender chicken breasts stuffed with rich garlic butter and coated in golden, crispy breadcrumbs. This classic recipe originates in Russian and Ukrainian cuisine, eventually gaining prominence in French haute cuisine.
Anyone seeking a quick, crispy, and flavorful meal often asks how to cook chicken Kyiv in an air fryer. This method is a game-changer, retaining the juicy consistency and crispy coating while significantly reducing mess and oil usage. Whether preparing it fresh or frozen, the air fryer guarantees convenience and delicious results.
Expert Quote:
“Air fryers offer a healthier cooking option while preserving the flavors and textures of classic dishes like Chicken Kyiv.” – Culinary Expert.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal for stuffing.
- Butter: Softened butter ensures it mixes well with garlic and herbs.
- Garlic: Freshly crushed garlic cloves bring out the traditional flavor.
- Parsley: Add either 1 teaspoon of dried parsley or 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley for freshness.
- Coating Ingredients: Plain flour, large beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
- Air Fryer: A Cosori or Ninja Air Fryer works perfectly for this recipe.
- Optional Sides: Serve with mashed potatoes, crinkle-cut fries, or a fresh salad.
Step-by-Step Recipe: Air Fryer Chicken Kyiv
1. Prepare the Garlic Butter:
Combine softened butter with crushed garlic and parsley. Shape into a small log, wrap in cling film, and refrigerate until firm.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing through the thickest part and opening them flat. Place a portion of chilled garlic butter in the center, then roll the chicken tightly, sealing the edges firmly.
3. Coat the Chicken:
Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. Coat each stuffed chicken breast in flour, dip it in egg, and finish with a generous layer of breadcrumbs for the perfect crunch.
4. Cook in the Air Fryer:
Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (360°F). Line the basket with foil or a liner for easy cleanup. Place the chicken in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
5. Serve and Enjoy
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Pairing Tips
For a balanced plate, consider pairing Chicken Kyiv with:
- Mashed Potatoes – Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes complement the crispy chicken.
- Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or carrots add freshness.
- Rice or Quinoa – Light, fluffy grains to soak up the garlic butter.
Tips for Success
- Use Paper Liners: These simplify cleanup and help retain any buttery leaks for drizzling over your meal.
- Choose the Air Fry Mode: When using a Ninja Air Fryer, opt for the air fry setting for the crispiest results.
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them properly to keep their texture and taste:
- Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Wrap each Chicken Kyiv in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating – To maintain crispiness, reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (360°F) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it softens the coating.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Chicken Kyiv is always a winner, offering unmatched flavor and texture. While store-bought options provide convenience, preparing it from scratch elevates the dish to restaurant-quality levels. The air fryer simplifies the cooking process, ensuring a perfectly crispy and juicy result every time. Whether for a quick weekday dinner or a special weekend meal, this method guarantees success.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook Chicken Kyiv in an air fryer?
Fresh Chicken Kyiv takes 18-20 minutes at 180°C (360°F), while frozen options cook in 15 minutes at 400°F.
Can I cook raw chicken in an air fryer?
Yes! Ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
What’s the best way to reheat Chicken Kyiv?
Reheat in the air fryer at 180°C (360°F) for 5-7 minutes to maintain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving.
Air Fryer Chicken Kyiv
Equipment
- Air Fryer (e.g., Cosori or Ninja Air Fryer)
- Cling Film for wrapping the garlic butter log.
- 3 Bowls for coating the chicken with flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
- Meat Thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken.
- Foil or Liner for the air fryer basket to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (ideal for stuffing).
- Butter – Softened butter is used to mix with garlic and herbs.
- Garlic – Freshly crushed garlic cloves for flavor.
- Parsley – 1 teaspoon of dried parsley or 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley.
- Optional Sides – Mashed potatoes, crinkle-cut fries, or a fresh salad.
Coating Ingredients:
- Plain flour
- 1 large beaten egg
- Panko breadcrumbs (for the crispy finish)
Instructions
Prepare the Garlic Butter:
- Combine softened butter with crushed garlic and parsley.
- Shape the mixture into a small log, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate until firm.
Prepare the Chicken:
- Butterfly the chicken breasts by slicing through the thickest part and opening them flat.
- Place a portion of chilled garlic butter in the center of each chicken breast, then roll the chicken tightly, sealing the edges firmly.
Coat the Chicken:
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
- Coat each stuffed chicken breast in flour, dip it in the egg, and finish by coating it with a generous layer of breadcrumbs for the perfect crunch.
Cook in the Air Fryer:
- Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (360°F).
- Line the air fryer basket with foil or a liner for easy cleanup.
- Place the chicken in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Cook for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.