Irresistible Kefir Savory Crepes: Chicken, Roasted Peppers & Melted Mozzarella Bake
These savory Kefir Crepes, filled with tender chicken, sweet roasted peppers, and gooey mozzarella, are truly phenomenal! While the combination of flavors is a classic delight, what elevates this dish to unique status is the ingenious infusion of Kefir, both in the delicate crepes themselves and in the succulent chicken marinade. Honestly, I’m surprised I didn’t discover this culinary magic sooner. Give this recipe a try, and I’m confident it will become a frequently requested favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite!
Please note: This recipe was initially crafted for a special bloggers’ challenge. Fingers crossed for a win! The featured Lifeway Kefir products were generously provided as samples for the development of this dish. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission for purchases made through them. You can read my full disclosure policy HERE.
The Secret Behind These Phenomenal Savory Kefir Crepes
The inspiration for these incredible Kefir Savory Crepes with Chicken and Roasted Peppers traces back many years to a memorable dish I enjoyed at a friend’s restaurant. Though the restaurant has long since closed its doors, the vivid memory of their savory crepes has stayed with me. It was a Mediterranean-inspired eatery, and many of their offerings showcased a delightful fusion of various Mediterranean cuisines, creating truly unique flavor profiles.
I distinctly recall the first time I tasted those crepes. The chicken filling was what truly captivated me. Curious about the secret to its succulence, I asked my friend, who revealed they used a yogurt and cilantro marinade, letting the chicken soak in it overnight. When the opportunity arose to participate in a blogger’s challenge featuring Kefir, I immediately knew I had found the perfect substitute and enhancement for that original marinade. My plan was to marinate the chicken in kefir and cilantro, adding a touch of parsley for an extra layer of flavor complexity. I believed kefir could surpass traditional yogurt in this application, and my intuition proved correct. Growing up in Poland, my mom frequently marinated all kinds of meat in kefir, swearing by it as the secret to achieving incredibly tender results. This time-honored family trick was ready for a comeback!
The result? Chicken marinated in cilantro and parsley kefir is nothing short of incredible. But when you introduce the sweetness of roasted peppers and the creamy richness of mozzarella, this dish truly ascends to a new level of culinary excellence. And let’s not forget the crepes themselves! Instead of the milk I typically use for a perfect French crepe, I experimented with kefir. Oh, my! These crepes are unbelievably delicious, boasting an unparalleled delicate texture and a subtle, delightful tang that complements the savory filling perfectly.
To complete this masterpiece, the crepes are finished with a rich Marinara sauce and a generous topping of more mozzarella cheese. This final flourish not only adds another depth of flavor but also infuses the dish with a wonderful Italian flair. My husband, upon seeing the finished dish, remarked that it looked more like enchiladas than pasta, a comparison that highlights its comforting and hearty appeal. So, if you manage to keep the preparation a surprise, you’re guaranteed to elicit delightful reactions from anyone lucky enough to try these unique savory crepes.
What Makes Kefir a Culinary Game-Changer?
Kefir is a tart and tangy cultured milk smoothie, celebrated for being packed with essential nutrients like protein, calcium, and vitamin D. It’s not just a refreshing drink; its unique properties make it a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. You can explore more about its benefits on the Lifeway website, where you’ll find 9 compelling reasons to incorporate Kefir into your diet. If you’re looking to purchase Lifeway Kefir products, they are widely available at stores such as Stop & Shop, Foodtown, and Shoprite. For those seeking plant-based options, Lifeway also offers Plantiful products, which provide a delicious dairy-free alternative.
My connection with kefir goes back to my childhood in Poland, where it was a constant presence in our family refrigerator. My mother adored drinking it plain, and she often blended it with berries to create a nutritious smoothie for me. It’s a full-circle moment now as I prepare similar smoothies for my own sons, simply blending strawberries with kefir for a healthy and delicious treat they genuinely enjoy.
However, kefir’s culinary potential extends far beyond smoothies. It truly shines in savory applications, as demonstrated in this very recipe. I’ve incorporated it twice: once in the delicate crepe batter and again as the star of the chicken marinade. As I’ve mentioned, kefir is key to making these crepes incredibly soft and delicate, while also acting as an exceptional tenderizer for the chicken, ensuring it remains moist and flavorful. It’s a win-win on both texture and taste fronts.
And the versatility of kefir doesn’t stop there. For instance, it’s an ideal base for cold soups, especially during the warmer months. One of my absolute favorites, perfect for a hot summer day, is this delightful Chilled Cucumber Kefir Soup.
Crafting the Perfect Kefir Chicken Marinade
Creating a flavorful and tenderizing kefir marinade for your chicken is remarkably simple, requiring minimal effort and just a few key ingredients. All you need is a blender to bring it all together. Begin by adding your chosen kefir (any savory type will work beautifully; I’ve used both organic whole milk and 1% varieties in the past), fresh cilantro, and optionally, additional herbs like parsley for extra depth. Season generously with salt and pepper, then blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. The blending process helps to fully integrate the flavors and creates a consistent marinade.
For the chicken, I highly recommend boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their inherent juiciness and flavor, but chicken breast will also yield excellent results. Place your chicken pieces into a large Ziploc bag or a non-reactive bowl. Pour the prepared kefir marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and then refrigerate. For optimal tenderness and flavor absorption, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, or even better, overnight. This extended marinating time allows the kefir’s enzymes to work their magic, breaking down tough muscle fibers and infusing the chicken with a subtle tang and incredible moisture.
Essential Ingredients for Your Savory Crepes
To ensure you have everything on hand for these delightful Kefir Savory Crepes, here’s a comprehensive grocery list. For precise measurements, detailed instructions, and nutritional information, please refer to the printable recipe card located further down the page.
- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breast: Choose high-quality cuts for the best flavor and texture after marinating.
- Lifeway kefir: Any plain, savory type will work wonderfully. I personally used organic whole milk and 1% varieties for testing.
- Fresh Cilantro: Essential for that vibrant, herby kick in the marinade.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds another layer of fresh aroma and flavor to both the marinade and the crepes.
- Cooking oil: For frying the chicken to a perfect golden-brown.
- All-purpose Flour: The foundation for light and delicate crepes.
- Eggs: Crucial for binding the crepe batter and adding richness.
- Butter: For both the crepe batter and for frying, enhancing flavor and preventing sticking.
- Salt: A fundamental seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
- Baking Soda: A touch helps to ensure your crepes are light and airy.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded, for its creamy texture and delicious melt within and on top of the crepes.
- Roasted Peppers: Jarred or freshly roasted, these add a sweet and smoky element.
- Marinara Sauce: A good quality marinara to tie all the flavors together and add a touch of Italian-inspired warmth.
Step-by-Step: Assembling and Baking Your Kefir Savory Crepes
Follow these detailed steps to create your mouthwatering Kefir Savory Crepes. Remember, for precise measurements and a printable version, scroll down to the recipe card.
Preparing the Delicate Kefir Crepes
Step 1: Create the Crepe Batter and Let it Rest. After your chicken has had at least an hour to marinate in the refrigerator, you can begin preparing your crepe batter. Combine all the crepe batter ingredients—flour, eggs, melted butter, Lifeway kefir, water, a pinch of salt, and baking soda—into a blender. Blend until the mixture is completely smooth and free of lumps. This ensures a consistent texture for your crepes. Once blended, transfer the batter to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for approximately 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial; it allows the flour to fully hydrate and the gluten to relax, resulting in more tender and pliable crepes.
Step 2: Fry Up Your Perfect Kefir Crepes. Once your batter has had its necessary rest, it’s time to start frying! Don’t be discouraged if the very first crepe doesn’t turn out perfectly; this is a common occurrence, much like with pancakes. The first one often serves to season the pan and help you adjust to the right temperature and batter consistency. The rest of them, however, should be just fine. For each crepe, add a small amount of butter (approximately ½ teaspoon) to your skillet before pouring in the batter. This not only prevents sticking but also adds a lovely rich flavor. (For an extra boost of flavor, refer to my expert tip below!) When portioning, a medium-sized ladle of batter will be perfect for a 10-inch skillet. Swirl the batter quickly to coat the bottom of the pan thinly and evenly. Cook each side until lightly golden brown. Continue this process until you’ve used all your batter; with the proportions in the recipe card, you should yield around 8 beautifully delicate crepes.
Expert Tip: I employed a clever little trick to make these crepes even more flavorful. After buttering the skillet for each crepe, I sprinkled a small amount of fresh, chopped parsley directly onto the butter before pouring in the batter. The parsley lightly toasts as the crepe cooks, infusing it with an incredible herbaceous aroma and taste. To be quite honest, these kefir herb crepes were so irresistibly good straight from the skillet, I had to actively restrain myself from eating them all before they could be filled!
Cooking the Flavorful Kefir-Marinated Chicken
Step 3: Sear and Finish the Chicken. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C). Heat another skillet, preferably a cast iron pan for even heating and a beautiful sear, over medium-high heat with a little cooking oil. Carefully remove the chicken from its kefir marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken pieces into the hot skillet. Sear the chicken for 7-8 minutes on each side until it develops a golden-brown crust. This searing step locks in moisture and adds a rich, caramelized flavor. Once seared, transfer the skillet directly to your preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165F (74C).
Step 4: Rest and Slice the Chicken. Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the skillet from the oven using heavy-duty oven mitts, as the pan will be extremely hot. Transfer the cooked chicken from the skillet onto a clean cutting board. Allow the chicken to rest for a couple of minutes. This resting period is vital; it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring your chicken remains incredibly moist and tender when sliced. After resting, thinly slice the chicken into pieces suitable for filling your crepes.
Assembling and Baking for Golden Perfection
Step 5: Assemble Your Stuffed Crepes. Now comes the fun part – assembling these flavor-packed crepes! Take one of your delicate kefir crepes and lay it flat. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese across the center, followed by about 1 tablespoon of sliced roasted peppers. Finally, arrange 4-5 pieces of your sliced, tender chicken on top of the cheese and peppers. Carefully roll the crepe from one end to the other, creating a neat, cylindrical package. Place the rolled crepe seam-side down into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Continue this process with the remaining crepes and filling. Depending on how generously you stuff them, you should comfortably fit between 6 to 8 crepes into a baking dish of this size.
Step 6: Bake to Melted Perfection and Serve. Once all your crepes are neatly arranged in the baking dish, pour a generous amount of marinara sauce evenly over the top. This adds a rich, tangy layer and keeps the crepes moist during baking. Finish with another layer of shredded mozzarella cheese, ensuring good coverage for that irresistible melted, golden crust. Place the baking dish in your preheated 350F (175C) oven and bake for approximately 15 minutes, or until the crepes are warmed through and the mozzarella cheese is bubbling and beautifully melted. Before serving, garnish with some extra fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy these delightful, hearty savory crepes!
Other Delicious Crepe Recipes to Explore:
- Classic Ham and Cheese Crepes
- Sweet Crepes with Honey Ricotta and Apple Sauce
- Easy Crepes Eggs Benedict for Brunch
- Hearty Crepes with Egg, Ham, and Cheese
- Indulgent Hazelnut Spread and Caramelized Bananas Crepes
Stay connected and discover more about the world of Kefir! Visit the Lifeway website and follow them on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.
Learn more about the author, Edyta, here, or follow Eating European on social media for more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration: Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.
Kefir Savory Crepes, with Chicken, Roasted Peppers & Mozzarella
Print
Pin
Rate
Ingredients
Chicken Marinade
- 4 Boneless skinless chicken tights or chicken breast (approximately 1.5 lb)
- 2 Low-fat Plain Lifeway Kefir;
- ½ cup Cilantro;
- 1/ cup Parsley;
- 2 teaspoon Salt
- Pinch of Black Pepper
- 2 tablespoon Cooking oil for frying the chicken;
Crepes Batter
- 1 cup All Purpose Flour;
- 2 Eggs;
- 3 tablespoon melted Butter + more for frying the crepes approximately ½ teaspoon per crepe;
- 1 cup of Organic Whole Milk Plain Lifeway Kefir
- ½ cup Water
- Pinch of salt;
- ¼ teaspoon Baking Soda;
- Chopped parsley for crepes approximately ½ teaspoon per crepe
Assemble the crepes
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese; shredded half for the inside of the crepes and the rest on the outside
- ½ cup sliced Roasted Peppers;
- 1 ½ cups Marinara Sauce
Instructions
Marinade the chicken
-
Add kefir, cilantro and if you want you can add more herbs (like parsley), then season with salt & pepper and blend.
-
Place the chicken (I used boneless/skinless chicken thighs, but chicken breast will work too) in a Ziploc bag, pour over the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or as long as overnight
Crepes Batter
-
After your chicken has been already marinating in the refrigerator for at least an hour, you can start working on your crepe batter. Add all of your crepe batter ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. Then refrigerate it for approximately a half-hour.
-
Once your batter has rested in a fridge, you can start frying them up. Add a little bit of butter to the skillet every time before pouring in the crepe batter. (See my expert tip in the recipe notes below for a nice boost of flavor.) When portioning, one medium-size ladle of batter for a 10-inch skillet will be perfect. Continue with the batter until you fry up all of your crepes.
Cook the chicken
-
Heat up another skillet (like cast iron) and add cooking oil. Remove the chicken from a marinade and add to the skillet. Cook the chicken on each side for 7-8 minutes and then place it in a preheated oven (at 350F) for about 10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches the internal temperature of 165F.
-
Remove the skillet with the chicken from the oven (make sure to use heavy-duty mittens as the pan will be very hot). Take the chicken from your skillet onto a cutting board and let rest for a couple of minutes, then slice it up.
Assemble the crepes and bake
-
Assemble the crepes: on each crepe add s 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1 tablespoon of sliced roasted peppers, and 4 sliced pieces of chicken. Roll it and add it to a baking dish. Continue with the remaining crepes. I used a 9×13-baking dish and I was able to add 7 pretty thick crepes. I’d say, depending on how much your crepes are stuffed you should be able to fit 6-8 crepes into a baking dish of that size.
-
Once all of your crepes are assembled, add marinara sauce at the top, more mozzarella cheese, and bake at 350F for about 15 minutes, until warm throughout and the cheese has melted. Serve with some extra parsley on top and enjoy.
Notes
Expert tip: I used a little trick here to make these crepes even more flavorful. Once I buttered the skillet, I sprinkled fresh parsley and then added it to the batter. To be quite honest I needed to constrain myself from eating these kefir herb crepes straight from the skillet…they were so damn good.