Scottish Grilled Skirlie-Stuffed Chicken Breasts

Introduction

A delicious take on traditional Scottish skirlie, these grilled chicken breasts are stuffed with a flavorful oat-based stuffing and cooked to juicy perfection on the Arteflame grill. This technique ensures maximum flavor, a steakhouse-quality sear, and an elegant presentation. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieving the best-tasting stuffed chicken you've ever had!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup steel-cut oats
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 4 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp sage
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• Toothpicks or cooking twine

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour some vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the soaked napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over the soaked napkins.
4. Light the paper napkins and wait for about 20 minutes until the grill is ready.

Step 2: Prepare the Skirlie Stuffing

1. Melt 4 tbsp butter on the Arteflame flat griddle cooktop.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Stir in the steel-cut oats, salt, pepper, thyme, and sage.
4. Gradually add chicken broth and cook until the oats soften.
5. Mix in the chopped parsley and remove from heat.

Step 3: Stuff the Chicken Breasts

1. Cut a pocket into each chicken breast using a sharp knife.
2. Fill each pocket with a generous amount of the prepared skirlie stuffing.
3. Secure the openings with toothpicks or tie with cooking twine.

Step 4: Sear and Grill the Chicken

1. Place 2 tbsp butter on the Arteflame center grill grate.
2. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for about 2 minutes on each side at 1,000F.
3. Move the seared chicken to the flat griddle cooktop to finish cooking.
4. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 150F, then remove from the grill.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
2. Serve hot and enjoy the rich flavors of Scottish skirlie-stuffed chicken!

Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to monitor doneness without overcooking.
• Be sure to move the chicken to a cooler part of the cooktop if it’s browning too quickly.
• Butter enhances flavor better than olive oil when grilling on the Arteflame.

Variations

1. Spicy Skirlie-Stuffed Chicken: Add chopped jalapeños and smoked paprika for a spicy kick.
2. Cheesy Skirlie-Stuffed Chicken: Mix shredded cheddar or parmesan into the stuffing for a creamy filling.
3. Herb-Infused Skirlie-Stuffed Chicken: Use rosemary and tarragon instead of thyme and sage for a fresh herbal twist.
4. Mushroom Skirlie-Stuffed Chicken: Add sautéed mushrooms to the skirlie stuffing for an earthy depth of flavor.
5. Garlic Butter Skirlie-Stuffed Chicken: Brush the chicken with garlic butter while grilling for an extra burst of flavor.

Conclusion

Cooking skirlie-stuffed chicken on the Arteflame grill ensures an incredible sear while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful. The combination of crispy, golden-brown chicken and the rich, buttery oat stuffing makes for a truly satisfying meal. Try this recipe and enjoy a taste of Scottish tradition, grilled to perfection!

Best Pairings

• Grilled baby potatoes with butter and herbs
• Charred asparagus or grilled green beans
• Scottish oatcakes for an authentic touch
• A glass of smoky Scotch whisky or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc