There are a few different methods you can use to hold stuffed chicken breasts together without using toothpicks:
Tying Method
One easy technique is to simply tie the stuffed chicken closed with butcher’s twine or kitchen string. Here’s how:
- After stuffing the chicken breast, fold it closed and tuck the loose ends under.
- Cut a piece of string about 8-10 inches long and wrap it around the center of the chicken breast, pulling tight to secure the stuffing inside.
- Tie the string tightly with a double knot. Make sure the string is holding the chicken breast closed.
- Trim any excess string and tuck the knot ends under the chicken so they don’t burn when cooking.
Tying the chicken breast closed helps keep the stuffing contained. Just be sure to remove the string before eating!
Toothpick Alternatives
If you don’t have kitchen string, here are some toothpick alternatives you can use:
- Wooden skewers – Cut wooden skewers to size and use in place of toothpicks.
- Rosemary sprigs – Fresh rosemary sprigs poked through the chicken will impart flavor as it cooks.
- Fresh herbs – Use stems of herbs like thyme, sage or oregano to hold the chicken closed.
- Corn husks – Soak dried corn husks to soften and use small strips to tie chicken. Imparts a subtle flavor.
- Silicone bands – Buy reusable silicone bands to wrap around stuffed meat for cooking and baking.
Sealing Methods
Here are some other ways to seal stuffed chicken breasts without toothpicks:
- Butcher’s knot – Tie a butcher’s knot by crisscrossing longer string over the chicken a few times before knotting.
- Kitchen twine – Loosely truss the chicken with kitchen twine like you would a roast.
- Foil seals – Wrap stuffed chicken tightly in foil, crimping the edges to seal.
- Zipper bags – Seal chicken inside a plastic zipper bag, removing air first.
Adhesive Methods
Some adhesive products can also seal stuffed chicken:
- Egg wash – Brush around seam with beaten egg before baking to “glue” it shut.
- Cheese slices – Use small pieces of cheese around the seam to melt and seal.
- Wafer paper – Edible wafer paper soaked in water can wrap around stuffed chicken.
- Butcher’s tape – Special tape designed for meats can hold stuffing in place.
Cooking Methods
How you cook the stuffed chicken can also help keep the stuffing contained:
- Bake upright – Arrange stuffed chicken upright in a baking dish so stuffing doesn’t leak out.
- Muffin tins – Place chicken rolls in muffin tins to help contain shape and filling.
- Steam – Gently steaming stuffed chicken can allow it to cook intact.
- Pressure cook – A pressure cooker environment seals in moisture and flavor.
Stuffing Tips
Here are some final tips for stuffed chicken success:
- Chill stuffed chicken before cooking to help firm up the stuffing.
- Avoid over-stuffing the chicken pockets or seams can burst.
- Use a stuffing that has some binders like eggs, cheese or breadcrumbs.
- Cut slashes part way through thicker chicken breasts before stuffing.
- Brush chicken with oil or melted butter so skin gets browned and crispy.
Conclusion
With the right technique, you can hold stuffed chicken breasts together without relying on toothpicks. Tying them closed with kitchen string or twine is an easy, reliable method. You can also use alternatives like herbs, skewers or silicone bands. Sealing the seam with egg wash, cheese or edible adhesives works too. Adjusting your cooking method by steaming, baking upright or using a pressure cooker can also help the stuffing stay contained. With the right preparation, your stuffed chicken will hold its shape for delicious results every time.