Pressed Chicken Loaf
A savory pressed chicken loaf layered with sliced eggs and seasoned with celery, onion, and olives, perfect for elegant gatherings or hearty family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove cooked chicken from bones and grind it in a food processor.
- Mix the ground chicken with boiling chicken broth, chopped celery, onion, and green olives.
- Place the mixture in a mold or rectangular pan.
- Layer sliced hard-cooked eggs as you press the loaf in the mold, saving some for garnish.
- Chill the loaf for several hours before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding spices such as thyme or paprika to the ground chicken mixture. If you don’t have green olives, you can substitute with chopped pickles or capers for a similar briny taste. For a vegetarian twist, use a plant-based protein instead of chicken. Ensure the celery is finely chopped to maintain a smooth texture in the loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pressed Chicken Loaf with a side of crisp greens or a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. It also pairs beautifully with Broccoli Noodle Salad for a well-rounded meal. Garnish with extra sliced hard-cooked eggs and fresh herbs for an appealing presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the loaf and warm it gently in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t dry out. Alternatively, you can enjoy it cold as a refreshing dish.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pressed Chicken Loaf contains roughly 826 calories, with 14g protein, 167g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (36% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 657mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds additional flavor to the loaf. Just ensure to remove any skin and bones before grinding it. This method makes the recipe even easier and more convenient.
How long should I chill the loaf before serving?
Chilling the loaf for at least 4-6 hours is ideal to allow it to set properly. For best results, consider making it a day ahead of serving. This gives the flavors time to meld together, enhancing the overall taste.
Can I freeze the Pressed Chicken Loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the loaf! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving or reheating.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).