Chicken Kiev

The Chicken Kiev is a beloved dish found on many Australian pub menus, offering a delicious combination of crispy breadcrumb coating and rich garlic butter. Based on a traditional Ukrainian recipe, the Chicken Kiev typically features a chicken breast (though sometimes a thigh) stuffed with a generous amount of garlic butter. Once the chicken is breaded, it’s either deep-fried or oven-roasted to a golden brown, resulting in a satisfyingly crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior.

The dish is commonly served with fries and salad, although it’s also popular when placed on a bed of fluffy white rice. The true magic of the Chicken Kiev happens when it is pierced—the garlic butter melts and oozes out, infusing the dish with a rich, garlicky aroma and flavour that makes it utterly irresistible. While the classic recipe centres around the indulgent garlic butter filling, some variations include additional ingredients like seafood, ham, or different sauces. Despite these variations, the bold, buttery garlic filling remains the standout feature. While delicious, the strong garlic presence might not make it the best choice for a romantic evening, but it’s certainly a hit for those craving comfort food with a punch of flavour.