Swiss-Stuffed Chicken Rolls Recipe

Introduction

The Crock Pot Swiss-Stuffed Chicken Rolls represent a harmonious blend of tender chicken, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all encased in a flavorful coating and slowly cooked to perfection. This dish exemplifies the art of combining simple ingredients to create a sophisticated, yet comforting meal that is ideal for family dinners, festive gatherings, or special occasions. The slow-cooking process ensures that each roll remains moist and infused with the rich broth and cream of chicken soup, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will delight your palate. As a contribution to the Love With Recipes platform, this recipe is designed to be accessible, scalable, and adaptable to various dietary preferences while maintaining its core flavor profile.

Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes

Needed Equipment

• Meat mallet or rolling pin (for tenderizing chicken)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• 5-quart slow cooker
• Toothpicks (to secure chicken rolls)
• Cooking spoons or spatulas
• Serving platter or plates
• Optional: Kitchen thermometer (to check chicken temperature)

Tags

Comfort Food, Slow Cooker, Chicken, Swiss Cheese, Family Friendly, Easy Dinner, Baked & Roasted, Protein-Rich, Meal Prep, Kid-Friendly

Serving Size

Serves 6 people, with each serving comprising one Swiss-Stuffed Chicken Roll

Difficulty Level

Moderate — involves tenderizing, filling, coating, browning, and slow cooking, but is manageable with some kitchen experience

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

Contains dairy and gluten; can be modified for gluten-free diets by substituting gluten-free flour and soup, and for low-lactose or dairy-free diets by using suitable cheese alternatives.

Course

Main Course

Cuisine

American / Comfort Food

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantities and Descriptions

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken

Begin by tenderizing the chicken breast halves. Place each piece between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent splattering. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it reaches a uniform thickness of approximately 1/8 inch. This step ensures even cooking and makes rolling easier. Be gentle to avoid tearing the meat; the goal is a thin, pliable sheet that will hold the fillings securely.

Once all the chicken breasts are tenderized, set them aside on a clean plate or tray. Prepare your workspace for the next step by organizing the ham and Swiss cheese slices for easy assembly.

Step 2: Filling and Rolling

Lay each chicken breast flat on a cutting board or clean surface. Place a slice of ham at one end, ensuring it covers enough area for easy rolling. Follow with a slice of Swiss cheese on top of the ham. The cheese should be slightly smaller than the ham to prevent it from spilling out when rolled.

Gently roll up each chicken breast, starting from the end with the fillings, and tuck in the sides to create a snug bundle. To keep the rolls intact during cooking, insert toothpicks through the center of each roll, ensuring they secure the ends and prevent unrolling.

Step 3: Coating and Chilling

In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, Parmesan cheese, rubbed sage, paprika, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly incorporated. This mixture will add flavor and a delightful texture to the exterior of the chicken rolls.

Using tongs or a fork, dip each chicken roll into the flour mixture, ensuring full coverage on all sides. Gently shake off any excess coating. Once coated, place the rolls on a tray or plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilling helps the coating adhere better and enhances the overall flavor.

Step 4: Searing the Chicken Rolls

Heat one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, carefully add the coated chicken rolls. Sear each side for approximately 2-3 minutes or until golden brown, turning with tongs or a spatula to ensure even browning. This step locks in juices and adds a crispy exterior.

Use a slotted spoon or tongs to transfer the seared rolls to a slow cooker. Be cautious of hot oil splatters; use a splatter guard if necessary. Arrange the rolls in the slow cooker without crowding, allowing space for even cooking.

Step 5: Preparing the Cooking Liquid

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth and cream of chicken soup until smooth. Pour this mixture over the chicken rolls in the slow cooker, ensuring each roll is partially submerged or bathed in the flavorful broth. This liquid will create a moist environment, infusing the chicken with rich flavors during slow cooking.

Step 6: Slow Cooking

Cover the slow cooker with its lid, set the temperature to low, and cook for 4 to 5 hours. The low and slow process ensures the chicken remains tender and the flavors meld beautifully. During cooking, avoid lifting the lid unnecessarily to retain heat and moisture.

You know the dish is ready when the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of at least 165°F or 74°C), and the filling is hot and bubbly. The rolls will be tender, and the cheese will be melted and gooey.

Step 7: Final Presentation and Garnishing

Once cooking is complete, carefully remove the toothpicks from each roll. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the Swiss-Stuffed Chicken Rolls onto a serving platter or individual plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve hot, with your favorite side dishes to complete the meal. The sauce from the slow cooker can be spooned over the rolls for added flavor and moisture.

Preparation Tips

• Uniform Thickness: Use a meat mallet to pound chicken evenly; this promotes uniform cooking and easier rolling.
• Cheese Selection: Opt for high-quality Swiss cheese such as Gruyère or Emmental for richer flavor.
• Coating Adhesion: Chilling the coated rolls helps the flour mixture adhere better during searing.
• Secure Rolling: Toothpicks are essential for keeping the rolls intact; remove them carefully before serving.
• Flavor Variations: Add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the coating for a different aromatic profile.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures chicken reaches safe internal temperature, avoiding over or undercooking.
• Layer Carefully: Place cheese and ham strategically to prevent spilling during rolling.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste the coating mixture before applying and add more herbs if desired.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare, coat, and roll the chicken the night before, then refrigerate overnight for quicker cooking.
• Serving Variations: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a crisp salad for balance.

Add-ons

• Extra Swiss cheese or other melting cheeses such as provolone or mozzarella for varied flavor profiles.
• Vegetables like sautéed spinach or roasted peppers as a bed beneath the rolls.
• Spicy kick with a dash of cayenne or hot sauce in the coating mixture.

Side Dishes

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Steamed green beans with almonds
• Caesar salad or mixed greens with vinaigrette
• Crusty French bread or dinner rolls
• Roasted root vegetables for added color and nutrition

Improvements

• Use homemade cream of chicken soup to control ingredients and flavors.
• Incorporate fresh herbs into the filling or coating for enhanced aroma and freshness.
• Experiment with different cheeses or add sautéed mushrooms inside the rolls for added umami.
• Adjust cooking time for thicker or larger chicken breasts to prevent dryness.

Save and Store

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rolls in a microwave-safe dish and microwave on medium heat until warmed through, or reheat gently in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. For longer storage, freeze the cooked rolls individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from the freezer in the oven or microwave, adding a few extra minutes to the reheating time.

FAQ

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and coat the chicken rolls the night before, refrigerate, and then sear and cook the following day. This saves time and allows flavors to meld further.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Swap the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blends, and use gluten-free cream of chicken soup. Verify all other ingredients for gluten content.

Is there a vegetarian option?

Replace chicken with eggplant slices or large zucchini slices, and fill with vegetarian-friendly cheeses and vegetables. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C). The slow cooker’s low setting also helps ensure even cooking.

Conclusion

The Crock Pot Swiss-Stuffed Chicken Rolls exemplify effortless elegance in the kitchen, combining the ease of slow cooking with the sophistication of gourmet flavors. Perfectly tender, flavorful, and visually appealing, this dish is a testament to how simple ingredients can be transformed into a culinary masterpiece with patience and care. Whether serving it for a weeknight family dinner or impressing guests at a special gathering, this recipe promises rave reviews and satisfied smiles. Remember, the key to success lies in meticulous preparation, quality ingredients, and a little culinary creativity. For more inspiring recipes like this one, explore Love With Recipes, your trusted platform for delicious, innovative, and accessible home-cooked meals.

References

• American Heart Association. (2020). Healthy Chicken Recipes. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org
• Food Network. (2021). Slow Cooker Chicken Techniques. Retrieved from https://www.foodnetwork.com