Marry Me Chicken Kiev

Marry Me Chicken Kiev is a lighter version of classic Chicken Kiev, stuffed with a sun-dried tomato and Parmesan filling and served with a creamy cottage cheese sauce. It provides around 55g of protein per serving and takes approximately 45 minutes to prepare and bake

Marry Me Chicken Kiev is the dish that will make you fall in love with cooking all over again. This recipe takes the classic Chicken Kiev to a whole new level, with a delicious sun-dried tomato and Parmesan filling, crisp breaded coating, and a creamy cottage cheese sauce. The combination of juicy, tender chicken breasts stuffed with a rich, flavour-packed filling, paired with the luscious sauce and lighter mashed potatoes, is an absolute winner. This dish is perfect for special occasions, date nights, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something indulgent yet lighter.

The beauty of this dish lies in its balance – the crunchy exterior of the chicken is perfectly complemented by the creamy, herby filling and sauce, all while maintaining a lighter, healthier profile. By using lean chicken breast, a cottage cheese sauce, and lighter mashed potatoes, this version of Chicken Kiev is packed with protein, but without compromising on taste. The sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan add a burst of umami, making this dish irresistible. With an easy-to-follow method, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal on your table in no time.

Why You Will Love This Marry Me Chicken Kiev

This lighter take on Chicken Kiev is everything you could want from a comforting, flavourful meal. Here's why you'll love it:

Healthy and Balanced: This recipe uses lean chicken breasts, light cottage cheese, and a healthier mashed potato option, so you can enjoy the indulgence of Chicken Kiev without the guilt.
Deliciously Cheesy Filling: The sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan create a mouthwatering, creamy filling that melts in your mouth.
Crispy and Crunchy: The chicken is perfectly coated in breadcrumbs, giving it a satisfying crispness.
Full of Flavour: With the addition of garlic, fresh basil, and a rich cottage cheese sauce, this dish is packed with depth of flavour.
Easy to Prepare: Despite its restaurant-quality presentation, this recipe is simple to make and requires minimal prep time.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the Stuffed Chicken

• 2 large chicken breasts: These will be the base of the dish, providing lean protein and a tender texture.
• 30g (1 oz) sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped: These add a tangy, rich depth of flavour to the filling.
• 30g (1 oz) Parmesan, grated: Adds a nutty, savoury flavour to the filling and coating.
• 40g (1.4 oz) low-fat cream cheese (optional): Adds creaminess to the filling, making it soft and luscious.
• 1 tsp dried oregano: A classic herb for Mediterranean-inspired flavours.
• 1/2 tsp chilli flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat to balance the richness of the filling.
• 30g (1 oz) plain flour: For coating the chicken, providing a base for the breadcrumbs to stick.
• 1 egg, beaten: Used for binding the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
• 50g (1.7 oz) breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch): These will give the chicken a crispy, golden exterior when fried.
• 30g (1 oz) Parmesan, grated (for coating): Adds extra flavour to the crispy coating.
• 1 tsp paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the breading.
• Salt & pepper: To season the chicken and filling.
• Spray oil, for frying: A healthier alternative to deep frying, ensuring the chicken remains crispy.

For the Light Cottage Cheese Sauce

• 1 tsp butter: Used for sautéing the garlic and creating a rich base for the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of flavour to the sauce.
• 100ml (3.4 oz) chicken stock: The base for the sauce, adding savoury depth.
• 100g (3.5 oz) cottage cheese: A lighter alternative to cream, providing a creamy texture without the extra fat.
• 30g (1 oz) Parmesan, grated: Adds an extra layer of richness to the sauce.
• 30g (1 oz) sun-dried tomatoes, chopped: For additional flavour and texture in the sauce.
• 1/2 tsp chilli flakes (optional): Adds a hint of heat to complement the richness of the sauce.
• Fresh basil, for garnish: A fresh, aromatic herb to finish off the dish.

For the Lighter Mashed Potatoes

• 350g (12 oz) potatoes (Maris Piper or King Edward): These types of potatoes are perfect for mashing, giving a fluffy, creamy texture.
• 25g (0.9 oz) butter: For richness in the mashed potatoes.
• 100ml (3.4 oz) skimmed milk: To achieve a creamy texture without too many calories.
• Salt & pepper: To season the mashed potatoes.

Method

1. Make the Filling: Mix sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, cream cheese (if using), oregano, chilli flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Slice a pocket into the chicken breasts, being careful not to cut all the way through. Stuff with the sun-dried tomato and Parmesan mixture and press to seal.
3. Bread the Chicken: Coat the stuffed chicken in flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, followed by a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and paprika. Press firmly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.
4. Fry & Bake: Heat a non-stick frying pan over medium heat and spray with oil. Fry the chicken for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden, then transfer to a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and bake for 15 minutes until cooked through.
5. Make the Light Cottage Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes. Add the chicken stock and bring to a simmer. Stir in the cottage cheese and Parmesan, followed by the sun-dried tomatoes and chilli flakes. Simmer for 3 minutes. Blend for a smoother texture if preferred.
6. Make the Lighter Mashed Potatoes: Boil the potatoes until fork-tender, then drain. Mash with the butter, skimmed milk, and salt and pepper until smooth and creamy.
7. Serve: Plate the mashed potatoes, top with the crispy stuffed chicken Kiev, drizzle with the light cottage cheese sauce, and garnish with fresh basil.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: ~590 kcal
Protein: ~55g
Carbs: ~50g
Fats: ~18g

Tips for Making Marry Me Chicken Kiev

• For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs for the coating. These will give the chicken an even crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• If you want a smoother sauce, blend it after simmering for a creamy finish. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, leave it as is for more texture.
• Make sure to press the chicken pocket tightly so the filling doesn’t leak out during cooking. Using a toothpick to seal the chicken can also help keep the filling in place.
• You can make the mashed potatoes ahead of time and reheat them before serving to save time.

How to Best Serve Marry Me Chicken Kiev

• Marry Me Chicken Kiev pairs perfectly with lighter mashed potatoes, as the creamy potatoes complement the crispy chicken and the rich, cheesy sauce. You can also serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or asparagus, to add a burst of colour and nutrition to the plate. If you’re looking for something a bit more indulgent, serve the chicken Kiev with a side of buttery garlic bread or a light salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
• For an extra decadent touch, drizzle a little extra cottage cheese sauce over the mashed potatoes or serve the dish with a fresh lemon wedge for a zesty finish.

Customise This Recipe

• You can customise the filling by adding extra ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or even cooked bacon for added flavour. If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding some sriracha sauce or more chilli flakes to the filling or sauce.
• For the mashed potatoes, consider adding roasted garlic, grated cheese, or chives to elevate the flavours. You could also substitute sweet potatoes for a healthier, nutrient-packed alternative.
• If you prefer a lower-fat option for the sauce, you can replace the cottage cheese with Greek yogurt or skip the cream cheese in the filling for an even lighter result.

How to Store Marry Me Chicken Kiev

Store any leftover Chicken Kiev in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve the crispy coating. If you want to freeze it, wrap the cooked chicken tightly in cling film and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake it in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20-25 minutes.

FAQ

What is Marry Me Chicken Kiev?

It's a lighter twist on the classic Chicken Kiev, inspired by the popular "Marry Me Chicken" flavour profile of sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan, and herbs. Instead of a butter filling, the stuffing uses these bold Mediterranean flavours, and the sauce is made with cottage cheese for a high-protein, lighter alternative to cream.

How many calories are in this Chicken Kiev?

Approximately 590 kcal per serving, with around 55g of protein, 50g of carbohydrates, and 18g of fat. Exact values will vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used.

Can I make Chicken Kiev ahead of time?

Yes. You can stuff and bread the chicken up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook. The cottage cheese sauce can also be made in advance and gently reheated before serving.

Can you freeze Marry Me Chicken Kiev?

Yes. Once cooked and cooled, wrap each Kiev tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 180°C for 20–25 minutes until piping hot throughout.

What makes this Chicken Kiev healthier than the classic version?

This version uses lean chicken breast, a cottage cheese-based sauce instead of heavy cream, and is oven-baked after a brief pan sear rather than deep-fried. It delivers significantly more protein while keeping fat and calories lower than traditional recipes.

Conclusion

Marry Me Chicken Kiev is the perfect dish for anyone who loves a comforting, flavour-packed meal that doesn’t compromise on health. This recipe is a lighter twist on the classic Chicken Kiev, featuring a flavourful sun-dried tomato and Parmesan filling, a crispy breadcrumb coating, and a rich, creamy cottage cheese sauce. The lighter mashed potatoes add a perfect balance to this indulgent dish.

This dish is ideal for special occasions or date nights, but it’s also simple enough for a weeknight meal. With easy-to-follow steps and minimal prep time, you can impress your guests or loved ones with a meal that looks and tastes amazing. Try this recipe today and enjoy a guilt-free, flavourful Chicken Kiev experience!