Chicken roulade is a gourmet dish that brings elegance and sophistication to any meal. Rolled with a delightful filling and cooked to perfection, chicken roulade not only looks impressive but also offers a burst of flavors with every bite. This recipe will guide you through the process of making a delicious chicken roulade, perfect for dinner parties or a special family meal.
Chicken roulade, also known as chicken rollatini, is a dish where chicken breasts are pounded thin, filled with a savory stuffing, rolled up, and then cooked until golden brown. The result is a visually stunning dish that tastes as good as it looks. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this chicken roulade recipe will help you create a masterpiece that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.
1.Nutritional Value
Chicken roulade is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value per serving:
Calories: 350
Protein: 40g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 1g
Vitamin A: 10% of the daily recommended value
Vitamin C: 5% of the daily recommended value
Calcium: 15% of the daily recommended value
Iron: 8% of the daily recommended value
2.Ingredients
For the chicken roulade, you will need the following ingredients:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup white wine (optional)
3. Making
Prepare the Chicken: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin.
Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs, then mix well.
Assemble the Roulade: Lay the pounded chicken breasts on a clean surface and spread the filling evenly over each piece. Carefully roll up the chicken breasts, starting from one end, and secure them with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the rolls together.
Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken rolls and sear on all sides until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Bake the Roulade: Once seared, add the chicken broth and white wine (if using) to the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Remove the chicken roulade from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Remove the toothpicks or twine, slice the roulades into medallions, and serve with the pan juices drizzled over the top.
4.Variations
Mushroom and Cheese Roulade: Replace the spinach and sun-dried tomatoes with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for a rich, earthy flavor.
Prosciutto and Asparagus Roulade: Add slices of prosciutto and blanched asparagus spears to the filling for an Italian-inspired twist.
Herb and Cream Cheese Roulade: Spread a mixture of softened cream cheese and fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and thyme for a creamy, flavorful filling.
Pesto and Mozzarella Roulade: Spread basil pesto over the chicken before adding shredded mozzarella for a fresh and aromatic taste.
5.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make chicken roulade ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken roulade up to the point of searing. Store the rolled and stuffed chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q: Can I freeze chicken roulade?
A: Absolutely. You can freeze the assembled, uncooked roulades. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then sear and bake as directed.
Q: What can I serve with chicken roulade?
A: Chicken roulade pairs well with a variety of side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad.
Q: Can I use other meats for roulade?
A: Yes, you can use turkey or pork cutlets as an alternative to chicken. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Q: How can I ensure the roulade stays together while cooking?
A: Secure the roulades tightly with toothpicks or kitchen twine. Ensure that the rolls are seared on all sides to create a crust that helps hold them together during baking.
Chicken roulade is a sophisticated and delicious dish that brings a touch of gourmet to your dining table. With its savory filling and beautifully rolled presentation, it’s perfect for special occasions or a delightful family dinner. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted with various fillings to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy the rich flavors and impressive presentation of chicken roulade, and let it become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.