Cannelloni with chicken and spinach

Cannelloni with chicken and spinach - a delicious and comforting recipe

When it comes to dishes that combine flavor with an appetizing appearance, cannelloni with chicken and spinach is among the favorites of many. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also an excellent way to bring vegetables to the plate, making it ideal for the whole family. Additionally, it is a recipe that can be easily adapted according to personal preferences, making it even more appealing. Let's discover together how to prepare these fluffy and flavorful cannelloni!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

For the pancakes:
- 150 g flour
- 200 ml milk
- 2 tablespoons oil
- a pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 400 g chicken meat (preferably from thighs for juiciness)
- 1 large onion
- 1/2 bell pepper (can be red or green)
- 3 garlic cloves
- oil for frying
- salt and pepper to taste
- oregano and thyme (two spices that bring a special flavor)
- 100 g fresh or frozen spinach
- 1 egg

For assembly:
- 100 g tomato sauce
- 75 g grated cheese
- 25 g grated parmesan

Step by step for preparing cannelloni with chicken and spinach:

1. Preparing the pancakes:
Start by making the pancake batter. In a bowl, combine the flour, milk, oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until you obtain a smooth composition without lumps. If you want the pancakes to be fluffier, you can add an egg to the mixture. Let the batter rest for about 10 minutes.

2. Frying the pancakes:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and grease it with a little oil. Pour a ladle of pancake batter and spread it evenly in the skillet. Fry the pancake for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden, then flip it to the other side. Repeat the process until you finish all the batter. You should get about 6-8 pancakes, depending on the size of the skillet.

3. Preparing the filling:
In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat and add the finely chopped onion, crushed garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they become soft. Add salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme, stirring to combine the flavors. Then, add the diced chicken and fry until it is lightly browned.

4. Boiling the spinach:
In a separate pot, heat water with a pinch of salt and add the spinach. Boil for 2-3 minutes until it softens. Drain the spinach and let it cool slightly, then chop it finely.

5. Combining the ingredients:
After the chicken is browned, transfer the mixture to a large bowl. Using a blender, mix the composition until you obtain a smooth paste. Add the egg and chopped spinach, mixing well to get a consistent filling.

6. Filling the pancakes:
On each pancake, add a portion of the chicken and spinach filling, then roll the pancake, making sure the edges are well sealed. Arrange the cannelloni in a greased baking dish with a little tomato sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking.

7. Final assembly:
After arranging all the cannelloni in the dish, pour the remaining tomato sauce on top to cover everything well. Sprinkle the mixture of cheese and parmesan on top for a delicious gratin effect.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 200°C and place the dish with the cannelloni inside. Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese on top becomes golden and appetizing.

9. Serving:
Let the cannelloni cool slightly before serving to allow the filling to set. You can add a fresh salad on the side to complete the meal.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can replace part of the spinach with other vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms.
- The cannelloni can be prepared in advance and then baked before serving, making them ideal for festive meals.
- You can experiment with different types of cheese, adding mozzarella for a creamier texture.

Nutritional benefits:
This recipe offers an excellent balance between the protein from chicken meat, the vitamins and minerals from spinach, as well as the healthy carbohydrates from the pancakes. It is a nutritious meal, full of flavor, perfect for sustaining energy throughout the day.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace chicken with turkey?
Yes, turkey meat is an excellent alternative that offers a similar taste but with lower calorie content.

2. Can I make the filling vegetarian?
Sure! You can replace the meat with tofu or sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.

3. How can I store leftover cannelloni?
Leftover cannelloni can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat them in the oven before serving.

This cannelloni recipe with chicken and spinach is not only delicious but also very versatile, allowing you to experiment with your favorite ingredients. Prepare them for a family dinner or a special occasion and let your loved ones enjoy the flavor of this comforting dish!