Chicken fillet wrapped in kaiser

Chicken rolls wrapped in kaiser: a delicious and easy-to-make recipe

When you want a meal that impresses but is also simple to cook, chicken rolls wrapped in kaiser are the perfect choice. This recipe combines the juiciness of chicken with the intense flavor of smoked kaiser, resulting in a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s embark on the adventure of preparing this savory main course!

Preparation time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
- Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 1 chicken breast (approx. 500 g)
- 500 g smoked kaiser (or bacon, if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary
- 1 tablespoon paprika powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 200-250 ml dry white wine

Brief history
Chicken rolls wrapped in kaiser are a modern reinterpretation of traditional dishes, where meat was often wrapped in bacon or lard to enhance flavor and juiciness. This technique not only improves taste but also helps maintain moisture during cooking. Additionally, the combination of spices adds a touch of refinement, turning every meal into a celebration of flavors.

Preparing the chicken rolls

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Ensure the chicken breast is fresh and free of sinews. If you want to achieve a perfect result, it is recommended to let the meat sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking. This will help with even cooking.

Step 2: Slicing and pounding the chicken
Cut the chicken breast into thin slices, about 1 cm thick. Use a meat mallet to pound each slice so that it becomes thinner and more tender. This step is essential for achieving rolls that cook evenly and will unfurl easily.

Step 3: Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix the chopped rosemary, paprika powder, salt, and pepper. This mixture will flavor your rolls. Evenly sprinkle this seasoning over each chicken slice, ensuring that each piece is well covered.

Step 4: Wrapping with kaiser
Cut the kaiser into long strips, about 3-4 cm wide. Place a strip of kaiser on each chicken slice, then roll the meat tightly so that the kaiser completely envelops the chicken. To secure the rolls, use toothpicks to hold the ends.

Step 5: Baking
Arrange the rolls in a baking dish, side by side. Pour the white wine over the rolls and sprinkle a dash of pepper on top. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture inside.

Preheat the oven to 160°C and place the dish inside. Cook on low heat for 2 hours. In the last 10-15 minutes, remove the aluminum foil to allow the rolls to brown nicely and form a tasty crust.

Step 6: Serving
Once cooking is complete, remove the dish from the oven and let the rolls rest for a few minutes. Cut the rolls in half to make them easier to serve. Place 2-3 pieces of chicken on each plate and serve with fried potatoes and a salad of roasted peppers or pickles. This combination will add a contrast of textures and flavors, making the meal even more enjoyable.

Practical tips
- For an even bolder flavor, you can marinate the chicken in white wine a few hours before cooking.
- Substitute kaiser with cheese if you want a vegetarian option. The rolls will take on a delicious flavor, and the cheese will melt beautifully during baking.
- For a richer sauce, you can add halved cherry tomatoes to the baking dish, which will roast and add extra flavor.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use pork or turkey, but the cooking time may vary.

2. How can I adapt the recipe for a healthier version?
Replace the kaiser with turkey ham or a vegetarian bacon alternative. You can also reduce the amount of salt and use more aromatic spices.

3. What side dishes pair best?
Fried potatoes are a classic choice, but mashed potatoes or a fresh salad can also perfectly complement this dish.

Calories and nutritional benefits
This recipe provides approximately 400-500 calories per serving, depending on the amount of kaiser used. Chicken breast is an excellent source of lean protein, and while kaiser is fattier, it adds a savory taste. This recipe also contains essential vitamins and minerals due to the spices and sides.

Possible variations
Get creative and experiment with different types of spices, such as roasted garlic or cumin. You can also add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.

Final notes
Chicken rolls wrapped in kaiser are more than just a meal; they are an opportunity to gather the family around the table and savor moments together. Whether you choose to serve this dish for a special occasion or simply on an ordinary evening, every bite will be appreciated. So put on your apron and let’s cook!