Introduction
At the heart of impeccable home cooking lies the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and presentation. The Chicken San Souci, a recipe lovingly curated from the culinary archives of the internet and shared by the talented Gina, exemplifies this harmony. This dish stands out as an elegant yet approachable entrée, ideal for both busy weeknights and celebratory gatherings. The tender chicken breasts are marinated in a rich mixture of sour cream, Worcestershire, and aromatic herbs, then carefully rolled and baked to achieve a crispy, golden exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. Accompany it with creamy mashed potatoes and vibrant green vegetables for a complete, satisfying feast that delights all senses. Crafted with attention to detail and a focus on flavor development, this recipe promises to elevate your culinary repertoire to new heights, making every meal an occasion worth cherishing.
Time
- Preparation Time: 8 hours
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 9 hours
Needed Equipment
- Large glass or ceramic marinating dish
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Sharp knife for butterflying chicken breasts
- Cutting board
- Oven-safe baking dish (8-inch square or similar)
- Cooking brush or spoon for spreading marinade
- Cooling rack (optional, for resting cooked chicken)
- Aluminum foil (optional, for covering during resting)
- Kitchen thermometer (optional, for checking doneness)
- Grater or food processor (for bread crumbs, if making homemade)
Tags
Comfort Food, Gourmet, Family Dinner, Chicken, Baked, Marinade, Easy, Classic
Serving Size
One serving consists of one chicken breast, approximately 150 grams, served alongside your preferred sides.
Difficulty Level
Intermediate — Requires some basic skills in butterflying poultry, marinating, and baking techniques, but straightforward enough for home cooks looking to advance their culinary skills.
Allergen Information
| Allergen | Present in Recipe |
|---|---|
| Sour Cream | Yes |
| Soy Sauce | Yes |
| Worcestershire Sauce | Yes |
| Butter | Yes |
| Garlic | Yes |
| Bread Crumbs | Potential gluten source if store-bought; homemade gluten-free options available |
Dietary Preference
Contains dairy and soy; suitable for omnivorous diets. Not vegan or vegetarian. Can be modified for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free bread crumbs and soy sauce alternatives.
Course
Main Course / Entrée
Cuisine
American / Continental
Ingredients
Ingredient Details
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 4 pieces | Boneless, skinless, butterflied |
| Sour cream | 1 cup | Full-fat preferred for richness |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 1/2 tbsp | For depth of flavor |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/4 tsp | Adjust to taste for spiciness |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced | Fresh garlic for aroma |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | Smoked or sweet, based on preference |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Sea salt or kosher salt |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp | Freshly ground |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp | Enhances herbal aroma |
| Dried marjoram | 1 tsp | Optional, for complexity |
| Soy sauce | 1/8 cup (~2 tbsp) | Low sodium preferred |
| Butter | 4 tbsp, divided | Unsalted recommended for control |
| Bread crumbs | As needed for coating | Homemade or store-bought |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin the process by selecting high-quality, fresh chicken breasts. Use a sharp paring knife or a filleting knife to butterfly each breast. To butterfly, place the chicken breast on a clean cutting board and hold firmly with your non-dominant hand. Carefully slice horizontally through the thickest part of the breast, stopping just before cutting all the way through, so that the piece opens like a book. This process creates a thinner, more even piece that is ideal for marination and rolling. Once butterflied, gently flatten the chicken slightly with the palm of your hand to ensure uniform thickness, which promotes even cooking.
Place the prepared chicken breasts in a large glass or ceramic marinating dish. Make sure the dish is spacious enough to allow the marinade to coat each piece thoroughly without overlapping excessively, which could hinder uniform flavor absorption.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, cayenne pepper, minced garlic, paprika, salt, black pepper, thyme, marjoram, and soy sauce. Use a whisk or a sturdy spoon to mix these ingredients vigorously until the mixture is smooth, homogeneous, and the spices are evenly distributed. The sour cream acts as a tenderizer and flavor carrier, while Worcestershire and soy sauce add umami depth. The herbs and spices contribute aromatic complexity, making the marinade rich and flavorful.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Pour the marinade over the butterflied chicken breasts, ensuring that each piece is generously coated. Use a spoon or a silicone spatula to spread the marinade evenly over each piece. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or a lid, and transfer it to the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. This extended marination period allows the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in tender, flavorful chicken with a rich, savory profile.
During this time, the acid from the sour cream and the salt from the Worcestershire and soy sauce will start breaking down the proteins, tenderizing the chicken for a more succulent bite. The herbs and spices will also infuse the meat, creating an aromatic marinade that ensures a memorable eating experience.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This moderate temperature ensures gentle baking, preventing the chicken from drying out while allowing the coating to develop a crispy texture. While the oven warms, remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off gently. Do not rinse; instead, let the marinade cling slightly to the surface to help with browning.
Place a small pat of butter in the center of each butterflied chicken breast. Carefully roll each piece, starting from one end and rolling tightly to encase the butter and filling. This technique helps keep the chicken moist and adds richness during baking.
Next, prepare the bread crumbs. If you prefer homemade bread crumbs, process slices of bread in a food processor until fine. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread or crushed gluten-free crackers. Place the bread crumbs in a shallow dish. Roll each rolled chicken breast in the bread crumbs, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating. This layer will create a crispy, golden exterior once baked.
Step 5: Baking the Chicken
Arrange the coated chicken breasts snugly in an 8-inch square baking dish or similar oven-safe container. Place them with the seam side down if rolled, to keep their shape during baking. Dot the top of each with small bits of butter or spray lightly with cooking spray for extra browning.
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour. Use a kitchen thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken to confirm doneness; it should register at least 165°F (74°C). The breadcrumbs should be golden brown and crispy, and the chicken should be tender and juicy.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite remains moist and flavorful. If desired, cover loosely with aluminum foil during resting.
Slice the chicken into medallions or serve whole, accompanied by your favorite sides. The dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, which balance the richness of the marinade, and a medley of steamed green vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, or asparagus to add freshness and color.
Preparation Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for optimal flavor and texture.
- Butterflying the chicken enhances marinade absorption and ensures even cooking.
- Marinating overnight develops deep flavor; if short on time, marinate for at least 4 hours.
- Adjust spice levels by increasing or decreasing cayenne pepper according to heat tolerance.
- Homemade bread crumbs yield a crunchier coating; toast slightly before rolling for extra flavor.
- For an extra crispy exterior, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 594.5 kcal | 29% |
| Protein | 45 g | 90% |
| Fat | 40 g | 62% |
| Carbohydrates | 15 g | 5% |
| Saturated Fat | 20 g | 100% |
| Sodium | 950 mg | 40% |
| Fiber | 2 g | 8% |
| Sugar | 3 g | 3% |
Tips and Tricks
- For a more pronounced herbaceous flavor, add fresh thyme and marjoram just before baking.
- Use a marinade with Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy twist.
- Experiment with spice blends like smoked paprika or cumin for different flavor profiles.
- Ensure the chicken is evenly butterflied to avoid uneven cooking or undercooked sections.
- To facilitate easier rolling, chill the rolled chicken in the freezer for 15 minutes before breading.
Add-ons
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top for color and freshness.
- Grated Parmesan or Romano cheese mixed into bread crumbs for extra umami.
- Spicy hot sauce or a drizzle of lemon juice to serve alongside for added brightness.
- Stuffed variations: add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or cheese inside before rolling.
Side Dishes
- Creamy mashed potatoes with garlic and butter
- Steamed green beans with lemon zest
- Roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes
- Fresh mixed greens with vinaigrette for a light salad
- Garlic butter sautéed spinach or kale
Improvements
- Use a combination of fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor profile.
- Marinate with a splash of white wine or lemon juice for added acidity and complexity.
- Apply a light coating of Dijon mustard or a thin layer of cheese before breading for extra flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute bread crumbs with crushed nuts or gluten-free crackers.
- Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Save and Store
Leftover Chicken San Souci can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring the coating remains crispy. For longer storage, freeze the cooked or uncooked rolled chicken in individual portions, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating or baking.
FAQ
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken overnight to develop flavor, and you can assemble and bread the chicken a few hours before baking. Keep the rolled chicken refrigerated until ready to bake.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Ensure soy sauce is low sodium and gluten-free, like tamari. Adjust baking time as needed for thickness.
What variations can I try?
Experiment with different herbs, add cheese inside the roll, or include sautéed vegetables for stuffing. Adjust spice levels based on preference, and try different dipping sauces or glazes to customize the flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, by adjusting the cayenne pepper to a smaller quantity or omitting it altogether, the dish becomes milder and more suitable for children’s palates.
Conclusion
This Chicken San Souci recipe, as shared on Love With Recipes, exemplifies how simple ingredients combined with thoughtful preparation can produce a dish that feels both comforting and gourmet. The layered flavors from the marinade, the crispy coating, and the tender chicken make it a standout entrée capable of impressing family, friends, or special guests. Its versatility allows for endless modifications, ensuring it remains a favorite in your culinary repertoire. With patience in marinating and attention to detail in baking, you will achieve a perfectly cooked, beautifully presented dish that elevates any dining experience. Embrace this recipe as a cornerstone of your home cooking journey, and enjoy creating memorable meals that bring loved ones closer with every bite.
References
- Gina’s Original Recipe Source
- Food Network’s Guide to Marinating Poultry