RecipesNew ZealandNew Zealand Lamb and Feijoa Stuffed Chicken Breast

New Zealand Lamb and Feijoa Stuffed Chicken Breast

Succulent chicken breasts filled with a savory mixture of minced lamb, sweet and tart feijoas, and aromatic herbs, baked to golden perfection.

Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings4
DifficultyMedium
New Zealand Lamb and Feijoa Stuffed Chicken Breast - New Zealand traditional dish

🧂 Ingredients

  • 4 large Chicken breasts(boneless, skinless)
  • 250 g Minced lamb
  • 3 ripe Feijoas(scooped out flesh)
  • 50 g Breadcrumbs(panko or fresh)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh parsley(finely chopped)
  • 1 tbsp Fresh mint(finely chopped)
  • 1 clove Garlic(minced)
  • 1 medium Egg(beaten)
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • 0.25 tsp Black pepper

👨‍🍳 Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).

    💡 Tip: Ensure the oven is at the correct temperature for even cooking.
  2. 2

    Carefully cut a deep pocket into the side of each chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes
  3. 3

    In a medium bowl, combine the minced lamb, feijoa flesh, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, chopped mint, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a stuffing.

    ⏱️ 10 minutes
  4. 4

    Stuff the lamb and feijoa mixture evenly into the pockets of the chicken breasts. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes
  5. 5

    Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.

    ⏱️ 6 minutes
  6. 6

    Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the stuffing is heated.

    ⏱️ 25 minutes
  7. 7

    Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks before serving.

    ⏱️ 5 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

  • If feijoas are not in season, you can substitute with a mix of finely chopped apple and pear.
  • Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).
  • Don't overstuff the chicken breasts, as the filling may spill out during cooking.

🔄 Variations

  • Add a pinch of chili flakes to the stuffing for a touch of heat.
  • Serve with a side of roasted root vegetables or a fresh green salad.

🏷️ Tags