ADVERTISEMENT
– **1 tablespoon cornstarch** (to thicken the sauce)
For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends
—
### **Instructions:**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Legs**
1. **Debone the Chicken Legs**: Carefully cut the meat around the bone of each drumstick, being sure to leave the skin intact. You can use a small paring knife to do this. Once the bone is exposed, gently push the meat down toward the wider end of the drumstick, creating a pocket for the stuffing.
2. **Make the Cheese Filling**: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, softened cream cheese, chopped cilantro (or parsley), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated. This cheesy stuffing will melt perfectly inside the chicken as it cooks.
3. **Stuff the Chicken**: Spoon the cheese mixture into the pocket of each chicken leg, pressing it in gently to ensure it’s well packed. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the open ends of the chicken drumsticks, ensuring the stuffing stays inside while cooking.
#### **Step 2: Brown the Chicken**
4. **Cook the Chicken**: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken legs in the pan. Brown each side for about 2-3 minutes until the chicken skin is golden and crispy. This helps lock in the juices and gives the chicken a beautiful color.
5. **Bake the Chicken**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the browned chicken legs to a baking dish and place them in the oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the juices run clear.
#### **Step 3: Make the Pineapple Sauce**
6. **Prepare the Sauce**: While the chicken is baking, combine the pineapple chunks, honey, soy sauce, lime juice, and ginger (if using) in a small saucepan. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes until the pineapple softens and the flavors combine.
7. **Thicken the Sauce**: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Slowly add this to the simmering pineapple sauce, stirring constantly. The sauce will begin to thicken. Allow it to cook for another 2-3 minutes until it reaches a syrupy consistency.
8. **Blend for Smoothness**: For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend the sauce, or transfer it to a regular blender. Puree it until smooth, then return it to the pan to keep warm until serving.
#### **Step 4: Serve and Enjoy**
9. **Plate the Chicken**: Once the stuffed chicken legs are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the pineapple sauce generously over the chicken or serve it on the side as a dipping sauce.
10. **Garnish and Serve**: Garnish with extra fresh cilantro or parsley for a pop of color. Serve the chicken with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
—
### **Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to This Recipe:**
– **Cheese-filled Goodness:** The gooey cheese stuffing inside the chicken legs adds a rich, indulgent flavor that contrasts beautifully with the fresh, tangy pineapple sauce.
– **Perfectly Cooked Chicken:** The combination of browning the chicken on the stove and then baking it results in a juicy, tender chicken leg with crispy skin.
– **Tropical Twist:** The pineapple sauce gives a refreshing, sweet, and tangy element that pairs beautifully with the richness of the cheese and savory chicken.
– **Impressive and Delicious:** This gourmet dish is simple to prepare but looks and tastes like a five-star meal, making it perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions.
—
### **Serving Suggestions:**
– **With a Side of Rice:** The sweet pineapple sauce is a perfect complement to a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, which can soak up all the delicious flavors.
– **On the Grill:** If you’re grilling, you can grill the stuffed chicken legs instead of baking them. Just finish them off with a quick drizzle of pineapple sauce before serving.
– **As Part of a Feast:** Pair these stuffed chicken legs with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete, gourmet meal that will leave your guests asking for the recipe!
—
### **Conclusion:**
**Gourmet Stuffed Chicken Legs with Cheese and Pineapple Sauce** are a perfect blend of savory and sweet, offering a tender and flavorful dish that will surely impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re preparing a dinner for your family or a special celebration, this dish is guaranteed to be the star of the table. With its cheesy filling, crispy exterior, and tangy pineapple sauce, it’s a culinary masterpiece that’s surprisingly simple to make. Try it tonight and treat your taste buds to something extraordinary!
