Chicken roll in bacon blanket

Chicken Roll in Bacon Blanket: A Burst of Flavors and Textures

If you're looking for a recipe that will impress both family and friends, the chicken roll in a bacon blanket is the perfect choice! This recipe not only combines juicy chicken meat with the rich flavor of bacon, but it's also an excellent way to incorporate healthy vegetables into your diet. Whether you serve it for a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself on a regular evening, this roll will quickly become your favorite.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 2 large carrots
- 1 onion
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 chicken fillets
- 8 slices of bacon
- 4-8 sage leaves
- 8-10 cherry tomatoes

Recipe History:
Meat rolls are a traditional dish that has been enjoyed in various forms throughout history, often associated with festive meals. Combining meat with vegetables and spices is not only a way to create a delicious dish but also an ingenious method to utilize available ingredients, resulting in a tasty and sustainable meal.

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Vegetables: Start by peeling and grating the carrots. Then, finely chop the onion and garlic. Slice the green bell pepper into thin rounds to add texture and sweetness to the dish. It's important to cut the vegetables uniformly so that they cook evenly.

2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the prepared vegetables (carrots, onion, garlic, and bell pepper) with the sugar, mustard, 3 tablespoons of lemon juice, and olive oil. Add salt and pepper to taste. This mixture will add a delicious flavor to your roll.

3. Preparing the Meat: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. While the oven is heating, take the chicken fillets and drizzle them with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, then generously season with pepper. This step will help achieve tender and flavorful meat.

4. Wrapping the Chicken: On each chicken fillet, place 2 sage leaves, then roll the meat and wrap each roll in 2 slices of bacon. The bacon will not only add a delicious taste but will also keep the meat juicy during baking.

5. Assembling the Dish: In a heatproof dish, place the marinated vegetables, then add the bacon-wrapped chicken rolls. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture.

6. Baking: Bake the dish in the oven for about 20 minutes. After this time, remove the aluminum foil and add the cherry tomatoes around the rolls. They will add a touch of freshness and a sweet-tart flavor. Continue baking for another 5-10 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is fully cooked.

7. Serving: Once the roll is ready, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. It can be served alongside roasted potatoes or a fresh salad, and the cooked cherry tomatoes will add vibrant color to your plate.

Practical Tips:
- Bacon: Choose high-quality bacon that is less fatty. This will make the dish healthier and not too greasy.
- Vegetables: You can experiment with other vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or beets, depending on your preferences.
- Marinating: If you have time, let the vegetables marinate for 30 minutes before baking to intensify the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I substitute the bacon? Yes, you can use ham or smoked turkey for a leaner option.
2. How can I check if the chicken is cooked? Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 75 degrees Celsius.
3. What drinks pair well with this dish? A dry white wine or a pale ale are excellent choices to accompany the chicken roll.

Nutritional Benefits:
This chicken roll offers a great combination of protein from the meat, fiber, and vitamins from the vegetables. Carrots are a good source of beta-carotene, and although bacon is fattier, it provides a distinct flavor. This recipe is balanced and can be part of a healthy diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Personalized Variation:
For a special touch, you can add some chopped nuts or feta cheese to the vegetable mixture, giving it a crunchy texture and unique flavor.

Now that you have all the details and tips you need, all that's left is to get cooking! The chicken roll in a bacon blanket will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire, and your guests will be delighted with every bite. Enjoy your meal!