Breast of Chicken Stuffed with Halloumi

Introduction

History

The concept of stuffing chicken breasts has been around for centuries, with various cultures incorporating their unique ingredients and flavors. Halloumi cheese, originating from Cyprus, has been produced on the island for hundreds of years. Combining chicken with halloumi is a relatively modern twist that brings together the rich culinary traditions of different cultures, creating a dish that is both comforting and exotic.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the chicken remains juicy and flavorful, it's crucial to not overcook it. Using a meat thermometer can help you cook the chicken to the perfect temperature of 165°F (74°C). Additionally, seasoning the chicken well before stuffing it with halloumi will enhance the flavors. For an extra touch of flavor, consider marinating the chicken breasts for a few hours before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or a light quinoa salad. For a more filling meal, consider serving it with a side of mashed potatoes or rice pilaf.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the recommended cooking technique for this recipe, as it allows the chicken to cook evenly while keeping the halloumi cheese melted and flavorful. Alternatively, the stuffed chicken breasts can be seared on a pan before being finished in the oven for a crispy exterior.

Ingredient Substitutions

If halloumi cheese is not available, feta cheese can be a good substitute, though it will melt more. For those looking to reduce fat content, low-fat cheese options can be used, though they may not provide the same level of flavor and texture.

Make Ahead Tips

The chicken breasts can be stuffed and wrapped in foil a day ahead, then refrigerated until ready to bake. This can save time and make meal preparation more convenient.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the baked chicken breasts to reveal the melted halloumi cheese inside, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a touch of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A light white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with this dish, complementing the flavors without overpowering them.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this dish is estimated to contain approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the size of the chicken breast and the amount of halloumi cheese used. This makes it a moderate-calorie meal option.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. The primary source of carbs in this recipe would come from any side dishes or sauces served with the chicken.

Fats

Halloumi cheese is known for its high fat content, which contributes to the dish's overall fat content. However, chicken breast is lean, helping balance the dish's fat profile. Using a moderate amount of halloumi cheese can help keep the fat content in check.

Proteins

Breast of Chicken Stuffed with Halloumi is an excellent source of high-quality protein, thanks to the chicken breast. This makes it a great option for muscle repair and growth, as well as for keeping you feeling full and satisfied after a meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, which are crucial for energy production and brain health. Halloumi cheese adds calcium and phosphorus, important for bone health.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are dairy (from the halloumi cheese) and potentially gluten, if any breadcrumbs or flour are used in the preparation process. Those with allergies or intolerances should take these ingredients into account.

Summary

Overall, Breast of Chicken Stuffed with Halloumi is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of proteins, fats, and essential nutrients. It's relatively low in carbohydrates and can be adjusted to fit various dietary needs.

Summary

Breast of Chicken Stuffed with Halloumi is a versatile and delicious dish that combines the lean protein of chicken with the rich flavor of halloumi cheese. It's a meal that offers nutritional benefits, including high-quality protein and essential vitamins and minerals, while also being adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences. With its simple preparation and elegant presentation, it's sure to become a favorite in any culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I will always cherish. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Cyprus. My grandmother, Yiayia Maria, was known throughout the village for her culinary skills and was always happy to share her recipes with me.

One summer afternoon, Yiayia Maria invited me into her kitchen to help her prepare a special dish for our family dinner. As she gathered the ingredients, she began to tell me the story behind the recipe for Breast of Chicken Stuffed with Halloumi.

"It all started many years ago, when I was just a young girl like you," she began, her eyes sparkling with nostalgia. "I had a dear friend who lived in a neighboring village, and she was known for her delicious stuffed chicken recipe. One day, she invited me over to her home to teach me how to make it."

Yiayia Maria went on to describe how her friend had shown her how to carefully butterfly the chicken breast, stuff it with a mixture of halloumi cheese, fresh herbs, and spices, and then roast it to perfection. The aroma of the dish as it cooked was enough to make anyone's mouth water, and Yiayia Maria was determined to recreate it in her own kitchen.

After many hours of practice and tweaking the recipe to suit her own tastes, Yiayia Maria had perfected the dish to her liking. She had since passed the recipe down to me, and now it was my turn to carry on the tradition.

As we worked together in the kitchen that day, Yiayia Maria guided me through each step of the recipe, teaching me the importance of patience and attention to detail. She showed me how to carefully stuff the chicken breast with the halloumi mixture, taking care not to overstuff it and risk it bursting open during cooking.

As the dish roasted in the oven, the scent of the tender chicken and melty halloumi cheese filled the kitchen, and I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in our family for years to come.

When the dish was finally ready, we sat down at the table to enjoy our creation together. The first bite was pure bliss - the juicy chicken paired perfectly with the salty halloumi cheese, creating a flavor combination that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

As we savored each bite, Yiayia Maria shared more stories of her youth in Cyprus, of the friends and family who had inspired her love of cooking, and of the countless recipes she had learned over the years. I sat there, listening intently to her words, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented and generous woman.

That day, as I sat at the table with my grandmother, enjoying a meal that we had created together, I knew that this recipe for Breast of Chicken Stuffed with Halloumi would always hold a special place in my heart. It was more than just a dish - it was a connection to my past, to my family, and to the traditions that had been passed down through generations.

And as I continue to cook and share this recipe with others, I am reminded of the love and joy that food can bring into our lives. It is a gift that I will always treasure, and one that I am proud to pass on to future generations.

Categories

| Chicken Breast Recipes | Cypriot Meat Dishes | Cypriot Recipes | Haloumi Recipes |

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