Chicken Rolls with Pesto

Chicken Rolls with Pesto: A Delicious Recipe for Memorable Moments

If you’ve ever wondered what pesto is, know that you’re not alone! This green, flavorful, and versatile paste has taken kitchens around the world by storm, and it’s no surprise. So, get ready to discover how to transform a simple chicken breast into delicious, flavor-packed rolls with the help of pesto. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. Let’s get started!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

For the rolls:
- 500 g chicken breast
- 100 ml chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
- 100 ml water
- Salt and pepper, to taste

For the pesto:
- 50 g fresh basil leaves
- 20 g fresh parsley leaves (optional, but recommended for an extra touch of freshness)
- 2 tablespoons pine nuts
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves
- 50 ml extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Making the pesto

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by thoroughly washing the basil and parsley leaves under cold running water. Make sure to dry them completely, as moisture can affect the texture of the pesto.

2. Blending the ingredients: In a blender or food processor, add the dried leaves, garlic cloves, pine nuts, and grated Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Adding the oil: Turn on the blender and gradually pour in the olive oil. Continue blending until you achieve a smooth paste. Adjust the consistency by adding more oil if necessary. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if needed.

Preparing the chicken rolls

1. Preparing the chicken breast: Cut the chicken breast into slices about 1 cm thick. Use a meat mallet to gently pound them until they become thin rectangles. This step helps the flavors penetrate and ensures even cooking of the meat.

2. Filling with pesto: Spread a thin layer of pesto on each piece of meat, reserving a few tablespoons for the final sauce. Roll each piece as tightly as possible to form rolls. You can secure them with toothpicks if necessary.

3. Preparing the dish: In a heatproof dish, place the chicken rolls. Add the chicken broth and water, and pour the remaining pesto on top. This sauce will add amazing flavor to the meat while baking.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 190 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 40-45 minutes. Occasionally, remove the dish and baste the rolls with the surrounding sauce to keep them juicy and flavorful.

Serving suggestions

These chicken rolls with pesto pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve them with a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or rice, or simply with a slice of freshly baked bread to savor every drop of the delicious sauce. Grilled eggplant or sautéed vegetables would be an excellent choice to complement the meal.

Tips and variations

1. Ingredients: Instead of Parmesan, you can use feta cheese for a saltier and creamier option. Additionally, pine nuts can be replaced with walnuts, hazelnuts, or even cashews for a different texture.

2. Pesto: If you’re looking for a more aromatic version of pesto, you can add a few mint or coriander leaves. These will not only enrich the flavor but also add a touch of freshness.

3. Chicken alternative: If you’re not a fan of chicken breast, you can use boneless chicken thighs, which are juicier and full of flavor.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, while basil is rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Extra virgin olive oil brings healthy fats that are good for the heart.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use store-bought pesto? Absolutely! If you’re in a hurry, store-bought pesto can be a quick solution. However, I recommend trying to make it at home to experiment with fresh flavors and ingredients.

2. Can I freeze the rolls? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked chicken rolls. Make sure to store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook them, don’t forget to thaw them beforehand.

3. What drinks pair well with this recipe? A dry white wine or rosé would be excellent choices. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, a cold herbal tea or lemonade would perfectly complement the meal.

In conclusion, chicken rolls with pesto are an excellent choice for a quick yet impressive dinner. The fresh flavors and juicy texture will surely make you come back to this recipe again and again. So, don’t wait any longer! Put on your kitchen gloves and let your imagination soar as you create these delicious chicken rolls. Enjoy your meal!