Chicken and Broccoli Roll

Chicken roll with feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, accompanied by broccoli

Who doesn't love a tasty meal, full of flavors and colors? Rolls are an excellent choice for any occasion, whether you're preparing a special dinner or simply want to impress your family on an ordinary evening. Today, I will share my favorite recipe for chicken roll with feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, a combination that not only delights the taste buds but also looks spectacular on the plate.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Servings: 2

Ingredients

- 1 chicken breast (approximately 250-300 g)
- 100 g feta cheese
- 6-8 sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 head of broccoli
- A handful of grated mozzarella
- 150 g butter
- Olive oil
- Fresh thyme
- Dried oregano
- Sea salt
- Freshly ground pepper

A bit of history

Meat rolls have a long history in global cuisine, appreciated for their versatility and the ingenious way they combine various ingredients. This simple chicken roll recipe is perfect for exploring delicious combinations and savoring Mediterranean flavors brought by feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes.

Preparation

1. Preparing the tray: Start by greasing a tray with olive oil, then line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the rolls from sticking and make cleaning easier.

2. Preparing the chicken fillets: Place the chicken breast on a flat surface. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the breast to even it out so it cooks evenly. Season each piece with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Tasty filling: In a bowl, crumble the feta cheese and add the finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sprinkle oregano and a few fresh thyme leaves. This filling will add intense flavor to the rolls, blending the salty taste of cheese with the sweetness of tomatoes.

4. Rolling: Place a generous amount of filling on each piece of meat, being careful to leave a little space on the edges. Carefully roll the chicken breast, starting from one end, and secure the roll with toothpicks to keep the filling inside.

5. Cooking the rolls: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 50 g of butter. Add the rolls and let them sauté for about 10 minutes until golden and crispy on the outside.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Once the rolls are browned, transfer them to the prepared tray and bake for 15 minutes or until the meat is cooked through and the juices run clear.

7. Preparing the broccoli: Meanwhile, wash the broccoli and cut the florets, removing the stem. Boil them in boiling water for 3 minutes, then drain and, in the same skillet used for the rolls, add a little butter and sauté the broccoli for 3 minutes. Finally, sprinkle grated mozzarella on top and let it melt.

Serving

Place the rolls on a plate, alongside the sautéed broccoli. Drizzle a bit of olive oil on top for added flavor and an attractive appearance. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a refreshing lemonade.

Useful tips

- For a vegetarian option: Replace the chicken breast with eggplant or zucchini fillets, filling them the same way with feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes, then bake them similarly.
- Variations of the filling: You can experiment with other cheeses, such as goat cheese or mozzarella, and add olives or spinach for an extra flavor boost.
- Storing the rolls: If you have leftovers, they can be kept in the fridge, covered, for 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven to bring them back to life.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use another type of meat? Yes, rolls can also be made from turkey or pork. Make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the thickness of the meat.

2. How can I check if the chicken is cooked? Use a kitchen thermometer; the internal temperature of the chicken should be at least 75 degrees Celsius to be considered safe for consumption.

3. What side dishes go well with this recipe? Besides broccoli, you can serve the rolls with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a pleasant contrast.

The chicken roll with feta cheese and sun-dried tomatoes is not only a healthy dish but also an excellent choice to bring a bit of creativity into the kitchen. So, don’t hesitate to try it and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!