Chicken breast roll with spinach and ham

Delicious Chicken Breast Roll with Spinach and Ham

Who doesn't love a juicy and flavorful roll? This chicken breast roll recipe with spinach and ham will not only delight your taste buds but also serves as an excellent option for an appetizer or a light lunch. The history of rolls is fascinating, dating back to ancient times, often symbolizing ingenuity in cooking. This dish is perfect to be served both cold and warm, making it a great choice for festive meals or gatherings with friends.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- A handful of frozen spinach (about 200 g)
- 2 medium onions
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 egg + 1 yolk
- Olive oil (for sautéing)
- 100 ml dry white wine
- 2 slices of Prague ham
- About 100 g grated cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by deboning the chicken breast. If you are not familiar with this process, look for an online video to help you. Once you have uniform fillets, wash them well under cold water. Then, use a meat mallet to pound the chicken breast to achieve an even thickness, similar to that of a schnitzel. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Preparing the filling
Peel and finely chop the onion. Peel the garlic and slice it thinly. Remove the seeds from the bell pepper and dice it. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the diced bell pepper and continue to cook until it softens, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Adding the spinach
Once the bell pepper has softened, add the thawed spinach and white wine. Stir well and let the mixture cook until the wine evaporates and the mixture becomes homogeneous. Season again with salt and pepper to taste. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat and let the filling cool slightly. Then, add the egg and grated cheese, mixing well to integrate the ingredients.

Step 4: Assembling the roll
On each chicken breast fillet, place a slice of ham followed by the spinach mixture. Spread the filling evenly over the entire surface. Carefully roll the chicken breast starting from one end, and secure the roll with toothpicks to prevent it from unrolling during baking.

Step 5: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Brush the rolls with the egg yolk to achieve a golden and delicious crust. Place the rolls in a baking tray with a rack, in which you have placed a cup of water, which will help maintain moisture in the oven. Bake the rolls for about 30-35 minutes or until the meat is well cooked and nicely browned.

Step 6: Serving
Once the rolls are ready, let them cool slightly before slicing. They can be served warm or cold, as an appetizer or main dish. They are delicious alongside a fresh salad or with a side of grilled vegetables.

Useful tips:
- For a more intense flavor, you can add herbs such as basil or oregano to the filling.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, make sure to choose gluten-free ham and cheese.
- The roll can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for festive meals.

Nutritional benefits:
This chicken breast roll is an excellent source of lean protein, and the spinach adds a healthy dose of iron and vitamins. It is a balanced dish that will provide you with the energy needed for an active day.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of meat?
Of course! You can substitute chicken breast with turkey or even fish for a lighter option.

- What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be used in salads or sandwiches, adding extra flavor and nutrients.

Chicken breast rolls with spinach and ham are a versatile and delicious choice. You can experiment with different fillings, such as sautéed mushrooms, feta cheese, or olives, to add a personal touch. This recipe will not only enrich your culinary skills but will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy your meal!