Herb Chicken Rolls Recipe: Juicy & Flavorful

Introduction

Herb Chicken Rolls epitomize the perfect harmony between succulent poultry, melted cheese, and a fragrant medley of fresh herbs. This dish is a culinary celebration that combines simple ingredients into an elegant, flavorful presentation, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. At Love With Recipes, we believe that creating memorable meals begins with understanding the nuances of ingredient quality, preparation techniques, and presentation. The Herb Chicken Rolls are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing for variations based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Their crispy exterior, tender interior, and aromatic herb infusion will captivate your senses and impress your guests.

Time

Preparation Time: 25 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Total Time: approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Oven
• Meat mallet or rolling pin
• Baking dish (preferably glass or ceramic)
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or fork
• Shallow dishes for flour, egg, and bread crumbs
• Cooking spoon or spatula
• Toothpicks (for securing the rolls)
• Kitchen tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper (optional, for lining)

Tags

Herb, Chicken, Cheese, Baked, Easy, Family-Friendly, Dinner, Main Course, Poultry, Aromatic, Comfort Food

Serving Size

Serves 4 people, with each serving consisting of one hearty chicken roll.

Difficulty Level

Intermediate — requires basic skills in meat pounding, rolling, coating, and oven baking, but overall straightforward for home cooks with some experience.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

Contains dairy and gluten; suitable for omnivorous diets. Can be adapted for low-carb or dairy-free diets with modifications.

Course

Main Course

Cuisine

European / Mediterranean

Ingredients

Ingredient Details in Table Format

Instructions

1. Preparing the Chicken

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper temperature control is crucial for ensuring evenly cooked chicken and a crispy exterior. While the oven heats, prepare your workspace with all necessary tools and ingredients within easy reach. Place each chicken breast half between two sheets of wax paper or plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch. This step ensures uniform cooking and makes rolling easier. Be gentle to avoid tearing the meat, but firm enough to flatten evenly.

2. Applying Butter and Seasoning

Spread about 1/4 cup of softened butter evenly over each flattened chicken breast. Using a spatula or butter knife, distribute the butter thoroughly, covering the entire surface. This layer of fat not only adds moisture during baking but also enhances flavor. Season each piece generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember, seasoning inside the roll is key to a flavorful dish. Pat the seasoning into the meat for better adherence. The butter and seasonings create a delicious base for the herbs and cheese to infuse into the meat.

3. Adding Cheese and Rolling

Place a generous portion of mozzarella cheese in the center of each chicken breast. The cheese should be enough to create a gooey interior once melted but not so much that it spills out during rolling. Carefully roll up each chicken breast from one short end to the other, enclosing the cheese completely. Secure each roll with toothpicks, inserting them vertically or horizontally to hold the shape during baking. If necessary, tuck in any loose ends or cheese to maintain an even roll. This step is crucial for maintaining the structure of the dish and ensuring each bite contains cheese.

4. Coating the Rolls

Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten egg, and one with bread crumbs. Dredge each chicken roll in flour first, ensuring an even coat on all sides. Tap off excess flour to prevent clumping. Dip the floured roll into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the chicken in bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere for a crispy exterior. Coat all sides thoroughly for uniform crunchiness. This triple coating provides a crispy, golden crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior.

5. Arranging and Baking

Line your baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated chicken rolls with some space between each for even heat circulation. In a small saucepan, melt the remaining 1/4 cup of butter over low heat. Once melted, add the chopped parsley, sage, rosemary, and thyme. Stir gently to infuse the butter with aromatic herbs. Pour this herb butter generously over each chicken roll, ensuring they are well coated. This step adds a fragrant, herby layer that permeates the dish during baking.

6. Baking and Basting

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. During this time, baste the chicken rolls with the herb butter and pan juices every 10 minutes to keep them moist and flavorful. After the initial baking period, carefully pour the white wine into the dish—this adds depth and a subtle sweetness. Continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C), and the exterior is golden brown and crispy. Baste again during this period for maximum flavor and moisture retention.

7. Serving

Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and carefully extract the toothpicks. Serve the herb chicken rolls hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Pour the pan juices over the top for added richness. Pair with your favorite sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad. The combination of melt-in-your-mouth cheese, aromatic herbs, and crispy coating will delight every palate.

Preparation Tips

• Choose uniform chicken breasts for even cooking.
• Do not over-pound the chicken to prevent tearing.
• Use freshly chopped herbs for maximum flavor.
• Ensure the cheese is well enclosed to prevent spilling during baking.
• Adjust the amount of herbs based on your flavor preference.
• Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking before removing toothpicks to help set the juices.
• Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches safe internal temperature.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• For a healthier version, substitute part of the butter with olive oil or use almond meal instead of bread crumbs.
• To add a smoky flavor, incorporate smoked paprika into the bread crumbs.
• Use fresh herbs whenever possible for a vibrant aroma and flavor.
• For an extra crispy crust, double coat the chicken rolls with egg and bread crumbs.
• Ensure the toothpicks are removed before serving to prevent choking hazards.
• For a richer flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or zest over the finished dish.

Add-ons

• Finely chopped garlic or shallots in the herb butter for enhanced aroma.
• Cooked prosciutto or ham slices wrapped around the chicken before rolling for added richness.
• Crushed red pepper flakes in the bread crumbs for a spicy kick.
• Cheddar or gouda cheese as alternative fillings for a different flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Roasted seasonal vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta.
• Fresh mixed greens or arugula salad with a vinaigrette.
• Crusty artisan bread or garlic bread to complement the meal.

Improvements

• Use a sous-vide process for even more tender chicken before coating and baking.
• Add a layer of sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes inside the roll for extra flavor and texture.
• Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a light lemon butter sauce for added sophistication.
• Experiment with different cheese varieties such as goat cheese or Parmesan for varied flavor nuances.

Save and Store

Leftover herb chicken rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. For best results, reheat uncovered to maintain crispiness. You can also freeze uncooked or cooked rolls; just wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw thoroughly before reheating or baking.

FAQ

Can I prepare these chicken rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Add the herb butter just before baking for maximum freshness.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute the mozzarella with dairy-free cheese options, and replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free margarine. Note that this may alter the flavor and texture slightly.

Is there a gluten-free alternative?

Yes, replace flour and bread crumbs with almond flour or gluten-free bread crumbs. Ensure your herbs and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How do I ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear, and the meat should be firm yet tender.

Conclusion

Herb Chicken Rolls represent a delightful culinary creation that balances ease of preparation with sophisticated flavors. Their crispy exterior, tender interior, and aromatic herb infusion make them a standout dish suitable for any occasion. Whether served as a main course during a family dinner or presented elegantly at a celebration, these rolls are guaranteed to impress. Remember to select the freshest ingredients, follow the precise steps outlined, and embrace your creativity with optional add-ons and side dishes. At Love With Recipes, we encourage your culinary exploration and hope this comprehensive guide inspires you to craft perfect Herb Chicken Rolls every time.

References

• Smith, J. (2018). *The Art of Poultry Cooking*. Culinary Press.
• Johnson, L. (2020). *Herb Infused Recipes for Every Season*. Gourmet Publishing.