Chicken breast roll

Chicken breast roulade with delicious filling

Welcome to the culinary world, where every ingredient tells a story and every recipe is an opportunity to create unforgettable memories! Today, I invite you to explore a savory recipe for chicken breast roulade, perfect for an elegant dinner or a family meal. This recipe is not only simple but also full of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds. Let's put on our aprons and get to work!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500 g)
- 1 medium onion
- 4 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
- 50 g butter
- 100 g bacon (approximately 4 slices)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste

Brief history of the recipe:
Meat roulades are traditional dishes in many cultures, often associated with festive meals. These preparations help retain the juices and flavors, transforming them into a unique culinary experience. Rolling the meat with various fillings not only enhances the taste but also the presentation of the dish.

Ingredient details:
- Chicken breast: Choose a fresh, high-quality chicken breast for a tender texture. It is an excellent source of protein, being low in fat.
- Onion and garlic: These ingredients add an extra layer of flavor. Garlic is known for its antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
- Bacon: Provides a rich taste and crispy texture but can be replaced with ham or omitted entirely for a lighter option.
- Breadcrumbs: Used to bind the filling and give it a pleasant texture. You can use whole-grain breadcrumbs for a healthier option.
- Thyme: This aromatic herb adds a Mediterranean touch to the dish and pairs wonderfully with chicken.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the chicken breast:
Start by washing the chicken breast well under cold running water. Then, with a sharp knife, debone the breast and slice it thinly. Place the slices between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them with a meat mallet or a pan until they become flat. This process will help the meat cook evenly and remain tender.

2. Seasoning:
Sprinkle salt and pepper over the chicken breast slices, ensuring each piece is well seasoned.

3. Preparing the filling:
In a skillet, melt 30 g of butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and crushed garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Add the chopped bacon and continue to cook until it becomes crispy. Finally, add the breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix well and let the filling cool slightly.

4. Assembling the roulade:
On a piece of aluminum foil, lay the bacon slices side by side. On top of these, place the chicken breast slices, ensuring they slightly overlap. Spread the cooled filling evenly over the meat.

5. Rolling:
Using the aluminum foil, start rolling the meat, making sure to tighten it well. Seal the ends of the roulade by twisting the foil.

6. Baking:
Place the roulade in a baking dish and put it in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes. After this time, carefully unwrap the aluminum foil and leave it in the oven for another 10 minutes until it becomes golden and crispy.

7. Serving:
Once the roulade is ready, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the slices alongside a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Serving suggestions:
This chicken breast roulade pairs wonderfully with a yogurt sauce with dill or a beetroot and feta cheese salad. If you want to impress, add a bottle of dry white wine for a perfect culinary experience.

Possible variations:
For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken breast with slices of eggplant or zucchini, and the filling can include goat cheese, spinach, and nuts. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as basil or oregano, to customize your recipe.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use turkey breast instead of chicken?
Yes, turkey breast is an excellent alternative and will add a different note to the dish.

- How long can the roulade be stored?
The roulade keeps well in the refrigerator for 3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

- What other sides go well with it?
You can serve the roulade with mashed potatoes, rice, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Nutritional benefits:
This chicken breast roulade is rich in protein, low in carbohydrates, and contains healthy fats from butter and bacon. Thyme and garlic also provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

In conclusion, this chicken breast roulade is not just a simple recipe but also an excellent way to impress family and friends. Experiment with the ingredients and customize the recipe to your taste! Cooking is an art, and every meal is an opportunity to create something special. Enjoy your meal!