These chicken rolls are guaranteed to be one of the best chicken dishes you’ve ever tried. They’re seasoned with simple spices, stuffed with gooey cheese and fresh herbs, then baked to perfection. The result? Incredibly tender and juicy chicken that melts in your mouth, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Rolls:
- Chicken breasts: 2 boneless
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Paprika: 1/2 tsp
For the Filling:
- Cheese: 150 grams (you can use mozzarella, cheddar, or your favorite melting cheese)
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Fresh dill or parsley: A bunch, finely chopped
For the Sauce:
- Mayonnaise: 2 tbsp
- Mustard: 1 tsp
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Flatten the chicken breasts:
- Start by slicing each chicken breast in half horizontally to create two thinner pieces. Place the chicken pieces between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pound them with a meat mallet until they are about 1/4 inch thick. This will make them easier to roll and ensure they cook evenly.
- Season the chicken:
- Season the flattened chicken breasts evenly with 1/2 tsp of salt, 1/2 tsp of black pepper, and 1/2 tsp of paprika on both sides.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Grate the cheese:
- Grate 150 grams of cheese and place it in a mixing bowl.
- Add the garlic and herbs:
- Add 2 minced garlic cloves and the finely chopped dill or parsley to the cheese. Mix well to combine.
Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Rolls
- Fill the chicken:
- Lay each seasoned chicken breast flat on a clean surface. Place a portion of the cheese and herb mixture in the center of each breast.
- Roll the chicken:
- Carefully roll the chicken breast around the filling, starting from one end and rolling tightly to enclose the filling. Secure each roll with toothpicks if necessary to keep them from unrolling during cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- Mix the sauce ingredients:
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp of mayonnaise and 1 tsp of mustard. Stir until smooth.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken Rolls
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
- Place the rolls in a baking dish:
- Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper. Place the chicken rolls seam side down in the dish.
- Coat with sauce:
- Brush the top of each chicken roll with the mayonnaise-mustard sauce. This will add flavor and help keep the chicken moist.
- Bake:
- Bake the chicken rolls in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the top is golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 75°C (165°F).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Rest the chicken:
- Allow the chicken rolls to rest for a few minutes after removing them from the oven. This helps retain the juices.
- Slice and serve:
- Slice the chicken rolls into medallions and serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. These rolls pair beautifully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple rice dish.
- Enjoy:
- Enjoy your juicy and tender chicken rolls with cheese and herbs, a dish that’s sure to impress!
Cook’s Notes
- Cheese Choice: Feel free to use your favorite type of cheese for the filling. Mozzarella, cheddar, Gruyère, or a combination of cheeses work wonderfully.
- Herb Variations: Fresh dill or parsley adds a great flavor, but you can also use other herbs like basil, thyme, or chives for a different taste.
- Additional Flavors: If you like, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
Variations
Spinach and Feta Filling
Replace the cheese with crumbled feta and add sautéed spinach to the filling for a Mediterranean twist.
Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Rolls
Wrap each chicken roll with a slice of bacon before baking for an extra layer of flavor and crispiness.
Mushroom and Swiss Filling
Add sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese to the filling for an earthy, rich flavor.
Italian-Style Rolls
Add a layer of prosciutto and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the filling for an Italian-inspired dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I prepare these chicken rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken rolls a few hours ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. This makes them perfect for meal prep or a dinner party.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze the chicken rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked chicken rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
4. What can I serve with these chicken rolls?
These chicken rolls pair well with a variety of sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad.
5. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead. They may require a slightly longer cooking time, so be sure to check the internal temperature.
These chicken rolls with cheese and herbs are a quick and delicious way to elevate your chicken breast dishes. With their juicy, tender texture and flavorful filling, they’re sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion!
