Cannelloni with chicken

Chicken Cannelloni - A Delicious and Comforting Recipe

Chicken cannelloni is a perfect choice for a hearty lunch or dinner, bringing a touch of comfort in every bite. This recipe combines delicious pasta with a juicy chicken filling, fresh vegetables, and a creamy sauce, offering not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight. Below, I will guide you step by step in preparing this dish, along with useful tips and nutritional information.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

For the filling:
- 9 cannelloni tubes
- 1 boneless chicken breast (approximately 300-400g)
- 1 onion
- 2 green onions
- 1 carrot
- Half a red bell pepper
- Fresh dill (a handful)
- Fresh parsley (a handful)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 2 eggs

For the béchamel sauce:
- 550 ml warm milk
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 150 g cheese for gratin
- Delaco milk core (optional, for extra creaminess)

A Brief History

Cannelloni are pasta originating from Italy, known for their tubular shape that is perfect for rich fillings. Over time, these pastas have become popular worldwide, with various fillings ranging from meat and vegetables to cheeses. This chicken cannelloni recipe blends tradition with fresh ingredients, offering a dish that can be enjoyed with family or on special occasions.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the filling
1. Prepare the ingredients: Wash the chicken breast and grind it to obtain a fine texture. Peel and finely chop the onion, while the green onions can be sliced into rounds. Cut the carrot into small cubes and the red bell pepper into small pieces.
2. Sauté the ingredients: In a ceramic pan (or in a regular pan, heat 3 tablespoons of oil), add the chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes. Add the onion, carrot, and bell pepper. Cover with a cup of water and let it simmer over medium heat.
3. Adding spices: When the liquid has reduced by half, add the green onions, salt, and pepper to taste. When all the liquid has evaporated, incorporate the tomato paste and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes. Remove the pan from heat and let the filling cool.
4. Complete the filling: Once the filling has cooled slightly, incorporate the eggs and finely chopped herbs (dill and parsley).

Step 2: Preparing the béchamel sauce
1. Melting the butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, add the flour and mix well, ensuring it doesn't burn.
2. Adding the milk: Gradually pour in the warm milk, constantly whisking to avoid lumps. Add salt and pepper to taste.
3. Thickening the sauce: Let the sauce simmer until it thickens, stirring occasionally. Do not let it get too thick; we want a smooth and creamy consistency.

Step 3: Assembling the cannelloni
1. Filling the tubes: Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill the cannelloni tubes with the chicken mixture. Ensure the filling is well distributed.
2. Placing in the dish: In a baking dish, pour a thin layer of béchamel sauce. Place the filled cannelloni, leaving a little space between them.
3. Finalizing the dish: Pour the remaining béchamel sauce over the cannelloni and sprinkle with grated cheese. You can also add some pieces of Delaco milk core for extra flavor.

Step 4: Baking
1. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil.
2. Baking: Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes. After this time, remove the lid or foil to allow the cheese to become golden and crispy.
3. Cooling and serving: When the cannelloni are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will help stabilize the filling.

Serving Suggestions
Serve the cannelloni with a fresh green salad or a simple tomato sauce to add a contrast of flavors. A glass of dry white wine pairs perfectly with this dish, adding an extra touch of elegance to the meal.

Nutritional Information
Per serving, chicken cannelloni contains approximately:
- Calories: 400-500 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g

These values may vary depending on the exact ingredients used, but generally, this dish is a good source of protein, thanks to the chicken and eggs, as well as carbohydrates from the pasta.

Possible Variations
- Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta for a delicious vegetarian option.
- Fish: You can use white fish fillets, such as cod or sea bream, for a seafood variant.
- Spices: Add spices like oregano, basil, or even a dash of chili for an intense flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can use lasagna cut into strips or other types of stuffed pasta.

2. How can I store cannelloni for the next day?
Cover the dish well with foil and keep it in the refrigerator. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

3. Is it possible to make the recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free cannelloni and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

In conclusion, chicken cannelloni is not just a simple recipe but also an opportunity to experiment in the kitchen. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or a family meal, this dish will always bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, put on your apron and let’s enjoy cooking! Bon appétit!