Here’s an elegant recipe for Chicken Roulade, perfect for special occasions or a gourmet dinner:
Chicken Roulade with Spinach and Cheese Filling
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Kitchen twine or toothpicks
For the Filling:
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
For the Sauce (optional):
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken
- Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally, being careful not to cut all the way through. Open each breast like a book and place it between two pieces of plastic wrap.
- Pound the chicken to about ¼-inch thickness using a meat mallet. Season both sides with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Make the Filling
- In a bowl, mix the chopped spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and minced garlic until well combined.
- Assemble the Roulades
- Spread an even layer of the filling onto each chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll the chicken tightly from one end to the other. Secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Sear the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roulades for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Bake
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Make the Sauce (Optional)
- While the chicken is baking, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Serve
- Remove the roulades from the oven, discard the twine or toothpicks, and slice them into rounds. Drizzle with the sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips:
- Filling Variations: Add sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Make It Lighter: Substitute cream cheese with ricotta or Greek yogurt.
- Side Dishes: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.