Chicken breast rolls are a beloved dish that combines tender chicken, savory fillings, and melty cheese, making them a hit with everyone. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests, as it delivers rich flavors and a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Filling:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup spinach leaves, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Coating and Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Flatten the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Mix Filling Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and minced garlic. Mix well to combine.
Step 3: Roll and Coat the Chicken
- Fill and Roll: Lay each chicken breast flat and place a generous spoonful of the filling in the center. Roll up the chicken breast tightly and secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Prepare Coating Stations: Set up three shallow dishes – one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken roll in the flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken rolls to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Add Cheese and Garnish
- Top with Cheese: Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the top of the chicken rolls with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the skillet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh chopped parsley.
Step 6: Serve
- Slice and Serve: Slice the chicken rolls and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Enjoy: Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of these famous chicken breast rolls!
Tips for Perfect Chicken Breast Rolls
- Secure the Rolls: Use toothpicks to secure the chicken rolls if they tend to unroll during cooking. Just remember to remove them before serving.
- Even Thickness: Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh ingredients for the filling to enhance the flavors.
Variations
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, feta, or goat cheese for a unique flavor.
- Herb Variations: Add fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to the filling for an aromatic touch.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini into the filling.
Nutritional Information
Serving Size: 1 chicken roll
Calories: 400
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 180mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 15g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 2g
Protein: 45g
These famous chicken breast rolls are a delightful dish that combines the best of creamy cheese, fresh vegetables, and tender chicken. They are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a favorite among all who try it.
FAQ
Q: Can I prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the chicken rolls up to a day in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Q: What can I use instead of sun-dried tomatoes?
A: You can substitute roasted red peppers or fresh tomatoes for a different flavor profile.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze the chicken rolls?
A: Yes, you can freeze the uncooked chicken rolls. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Enjoy making and savoring these chicken breast rolls, and watch as they become a favorite in your household!
