These Cheddar-Stuffed Chicken Legs are an absolute delight, combining juicy, tender chicken with the rich, melted goodness of cheddar cheese. The perfect balance of spices and the unique flavor of mustard seeds elevate this dish to a whole new level of deliciousness. Whether you’re preparing a special family dinner or just craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. Follow these detailed steps to create a mouthwatering meal that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 5-6 whole chicken legs
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Cheddar cheese slices (1 slice per chicken leg)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by deboning the chicken legs. To do this, carefully cut along the bone and gently remove it while keeping the skin and meat intact. Flatten the deboned chicken using a meat mallet to ensure even thickness, which helps in uniform cooking and easier rolling. This process also tenderizes the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful.
2. Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the oregano, garlic powder, sweet paprika, mustard seeds, olive oil, and soy sauce. Mix well to form a smooth seasoning blend. This mixture will infuse the chicken with a burst of savory, aromatic flavors.
Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the flattened chicken legs, ensuring every part of the meat is coated. For the best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the chicken to absorb the spices, resulting in a more flavorful dish.
3. Roll with Cheese
Lay a slice of cheddar cheese on each seasoned chicken leg. Carefully roll the chicken around the cheese, starting from one end and rolling tightly to encase the cheese completely within the chicken. Secure the rolled chicken with toothpicks if needed to hold the shape during cooking. This step ensures that the cheese melts evenly inside the chicken, creating a delicious, gooey center.
4. Bake the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Place the rolled chicken legs on the prepared baking tray, seam side down to maintain their shape. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has developed a beautiful golden color. To ensure the chicken is safely cooked, the internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) when measured with a meat thermometer.
5. Serve
Once the chicken legs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, making the chicken even more tender and juicy. Carefully remove any toothpicks before serving.
Garnish the chicken with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve hot with your choice of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. The combination of the crispy chicken skin, melted cheddar, and savory seasonings creates a truly irresistible meal.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Legs
- Deboning Tips: Use a sharp knife and take your time while deboning to keep the meat intact. You can also ask your butcher to do this step for you if preferred.
- Marination Time: For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator. This allows the seasoning to fully penetrate the meat.
- Cheese Selection: While cheddar adds a great taste, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for different flavor profiles.
- Serving Suggestions: These stuffed chicken legs pair wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, a light garden salad, or even a warm, crusty bread.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken leg
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
These Cheddar-Stuffed Chicken Legs are not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious meal, packed with protein and full of savory flavors. Enjoy this easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!