This stuffed chicken thighs recipe, passed down from my grandfather, impressed everyone when I made it. Deboned, seasoned, and stuffed with a delicious mozzarella and yogurt filling, these chicken thighs are perfect for a special dinner or any occasion. Follow these steps to create a delightful dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 8 chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 4 teaspoons crushed garlic
- 150 grams mozzarella cheese
- 100 grams sugar-free plain yogurt
- Toothpicks
Instructions
Deboning and Preparing the Chicken Thighs
- Debone the Chicken Thighs: Start by deboning eight chicken thighs. To do this, cut along each side of the bone, then slip the knife under the bone and carefully remove it. Repeat this process with all the chicken thighs.
- Pound the Chicken: Cover the deboned chicken thighs with plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, pound them well to flatten them evenly. This will make them easier to roll and cook.
Seasoning the Chicken Thighs
- Season the Chicken: On each chicken thigh, sprinkle one pinch of salt, one pinch of black pepper, one pinch of sweet paprika, and half a teaspoon of crushed garlic. Spread the seasoning well by hand to ensure even coverage. Set the seasoned thighs aside.
Preparing the Filling
- Prepare the Cheese: Cut a block of 150 grams of mozzarella cheese into thick slices, then into thin strips, and finally into small cubes. Place the cheese cubes in a medium bowl.
- Mix the Filling: Add 100 grams of sugar-free plain yogurt to the bowl with the cheese cubes. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated.
Stuffing and Rolling the Chicken Thighs
- Stuff the Chicken: Place one tablespoon of the cheese and yogurt mixture over one of the seasoned chicken thighs. Roll the chicken thigh over the filling and secure it with toothpicks to keep the filling inside. Repeat this process with all the chicken thighs.
Baking the Chicken Thighs
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer all the rolled and stuffed chicken thighs to an oven grill or a large baking sheet.
- Bake the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Place the baking sheet with the chicken thighs in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Serving
- Serve Hot: Once baked, remove the chicken thighs from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the delicious, juicy, and flavorful stuffed chicken thighs.
Tips and Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Variations: Use other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or feta for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy variation.
- Herb Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for added color and flavor.
Nutritional Information
These stuffed chicken thighs provide a good balance of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Adjust portion sizes to fit your dietary needs and preferences.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 180°C (356°F) until warmed through.
This stuffed chicken thighs recipe, passed down from my grandfather, is a delicious and elegant dish that combines tender chicken with a flavorful cheese and yogurt filling. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to impress your friends and family. Share this recipe with others and enjoy the compliments as they savor every bite. Enjoy your stuffed chicken thighs, and see you in the next recipe!
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a gourmet meal with minimal effort. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting texture of these stuffed chicken thighs, a treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!
