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This elegant dish features tender chicken legs stuffed with creamy cheese, paired with a luscious pineapple sauce for a sweet and savory flavor combination. Perfect for special occasions or a fancy dinner at home, this recipe delivers a gourmet experience that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken Legs:
Chicken Legs: 4 large, deboned
Cheese: 150 g (5 oz), shredded (mozzarella, gouda, or cheddar)
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Salt: To taste
Black Pepper: To taste
Paprika: 1 teaspoon
Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
For the Pineapple Sauce:
Pineapple Chunks: 1 cup, fresh or canned
Pineapple Juice: ½ cup (if using canned, use the juice from the can)
Butter: 2 tablespoons
Honey: 1 tablespoon
Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon, dissolved in 2 tablespoons of water
Ginger: 1 teaspoon, freshly grated
Chili Flakes: To taste (optional)
Directions
1. Prepare the Chicken Legs
Debone the chicken legs, leaving the skin intact.
Rub the chicken legs with salt, black pepper, paprika, and minced garlic. Let them marinate for 10 minutes.
2. Stuff the Chicken Legs
Stuff each chicken leg with a generous amount of shredded cheese.
Secure the openings with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the stuffing in place.
3. Cook the Chicken Legs
Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
Sear the stuffed chicken legs on all sides until golden brown, about 3–4 minutes per side.
Transfer the seared chicken legs to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 minutes, or until fully cooked.
4. Prepare the Pineapple Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Add pineapple chunks and grated ginger, and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in honey, soy sauce, and pineapple juice. Bring to a simmer.
Add cornstarch slurry while stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
Adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt and chili flakes if desired.
5. Assemble and Serve
Remove the cooked chicken legs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
Drizzle the pineapple sauce generously over the chicken legs.
Garnish with fresh herbs or additional pineapple chunks for presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with steamed jasmine rice to soak up the sauce.
Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Complement with mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
Add a side of garlic bread or buttery rolls.
Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color.
Cooking Tips
Ensure the chicken legs are tightly secured to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
Use fresh pineapple for a brighter, tangier flavor.
If you prefer a spicier sauce, add more chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
For extra richness, brush the chicken legs with melted butter before baking.
Allow the chicken to rest after baking to lock in the juices.
Nutritional Benefits
Chicken: A lean protein source rich in vitamins B6 and B12.
Cheese: Provides calcium and protein for strong bones and muscles.
Pineapple: Packed with vitamin C, manganese, and digestive enzymes.
Ginger: Contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Dietary Information
High-Protein: Great for muscle building and recovery.
Contains Dairy: Not suitable for those with lactose intolerance.
Gluten-Free: Ensure soy sauce is gluten-free for a gluten-free dish.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
Calories: 380
Protein: 25 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 12 g
Storage
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