Chicken roll with spinach

Delicious Chicken Roll with Spinach: A Feast for Holidays

Welcome to the culinary world! Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a delicious chicken roll with spinach, perfect for Easter or any other special occasion. This recipe not only looks spectacular, but also combines delicious flavors that will surely impress everyone. The chicken roll with spinach is an excellent choice, rich in proteins and vitamins, ideal for a healthy meal.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 500g)
- 200g fresh spinach (or frozen)
- 2-3 garlic cloves (to taste)
- 50g cheese (grated or diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
- A piece of baking paper
- Aluminum foil
- Water for boiling

The story behind the recipe

Meat rolls are a cherished culinary tradition in many cultures, with deep roots in family cuisine. Whether filled with vegetables, cheese, or meat, these dishes have the gift of bringing people together at the festive table. The chicken roll with spinach is not only a symbol of culinary refinement, but also an excellent way to add vegetables to our diet without sacrificing taste.

Preparing the chicken roll

Step 1: Preparing the spinach

First, place the spinach in a pot of boiling water with a teaspoon of salt and chopped garlic cloves. Let the spinach boil for 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft. If using frozen spinach, it will only need a few minutes to thaw. Once the spinach is ready, remove it to a strainer, let it drain well, and then allow it to cool.

Practical tips: Fresh spinach is always preferable, but if you do not have access to it, frozen spinach is an excellent alternative. Make sure to squeeze it well to remove excess water; otherwise, the roll will be too wet.

Step 2: Preparing the chicken fillet

The chicken breast will be sliced in half using a sharp knife. It is important not to cut all the way through but to leave one side attached so that you obtain an even fillet. Cover the meat with plastic wrap and, using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken breast until it becomes thin and even.

Step 3: Flattening the meat

After you have pounded the chicken breast, place it on a piece of baking paper. Fold the paper over the meat and, using a rolling pin, flatten and even out the meat. This process will help achieve a perfectly uniform roll.

Step 4: Seasoning

Season the chicken breast with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste. These spices will add extra flavor to the roll.

Step 5: Filling the roll

At one end of the fillet, add the filling of spinach, red bell pepper, and cheese, making sure to distribute it evenly. If desired, you can also experiment with other fillings, such as mushrooms or feta cheese. Roll the meat as tightly as possible, being careful not to let the filling spill out.

Step 6: Wrapping the roll

After you have rolled the meat, wrap the roll in baking paper and twist the ends tightly. Then, wrap the roll in aluminum foil, ensuring it is well sealed.

Step 7: Boiling the roll

In a large pot, add water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the chicken roll to the water. Cover with a lid and let it simmer for 30 minutes. This process will keep the meat juicy and allow the flavors to develop.

Step 8: Cooling and slicing

After the roll has boiled, let it cool slightly in the water, then remove it and unwrap the aluminum foil. Cut the roll into thick slices and serve it warm or at room temperature.

Serving suggestions

The chicken roll with spinach can be served alongside a fresh salad or with sautéed vegetable sides. Additionally, a yogurt sauce with garlic and mint would perfectly complement this dish. If you want to add a touch of elegance, you can garnish it with fresh mint leaves or cherry tomato slices.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other vegetables for the filling?
Absolutely! You can experiment with mushrooms, zucchini, or even feta cheese to diversify the filling.

2. How can I store the roll?
The roll can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. It is delicious cold, ideal for snacks.

3. Can the roll be frozen?
Yes! The boiled roll can be frozen. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Nutritional benefits

This chicken roll with spinach provides an excellent source of protein, being rich in iron and vitamins due to the spinach. It is a healthy, filling choice that is also full of flavor. A serving contains approximately 300 calories, depending on the filling and how it is served.

Possible variations

To add a special touch, you can also add spices like oregano or basil to the filling. Additionally, try experimenting with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or parmesan for a more intense flavor.

Conclusion

The chicken roll with spinach is a simple yet impressive recipe that will delight your family and friends. Easy to prepare and full of flavors, it is an excellent choice for festive meals or a hearty dinner. Feel free to experiment with fillings and spices to customize this dish to your preferences. Happy cooking and enjoying!