Chicken Rolls: A Perfect Second Course Recipe
A Delightful Dish for 8 People
Chicken rolls, or Involtini di Pollo, are a traditional Italian second course that blends tender chicken breast with savory ham, fresh spinach, and creamy Fontina cheese. This recipe is a simple yet flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a succulent and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Below is a list of ingredients needed to prepare these chicken rolls. Ensure you have everything ready before starting:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breast fillets | 8 pieces |
| Cooked ham | 120 g |
| Fresh spinach | 500 g |
| Fontina cheese | 200 g |
| White wine | 80 ml |
| Extra virgin olive oil | As needed |
| Fine salt | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 kcal |
| Protein | ~26 g |
| Fat | ~10 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~3 g |
| Fiber | ~1.5 g |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Spinach
- Start by blanching the fresh spinach in a pot of salted boiling water. This should only take a few seconds.
- Quickly transfer the spinach to an ice bath to halt the cooking process.
- Drain the spinach thoroughly, then use a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out any remaining water.
- Chop the spinach finely with a knife and set it aside.
Step 2: Flatten and Season the Chicken
- Using a meat mallet, gently pound each chicken breast fillet to achieve a thinner, more uniform thickness.
- Sprinkle each fillet lightly with fine salt on both sides.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Lay a slice of cooked ham over each seasoned chicken fillet. Trim the ham to match the size of the chicken pieces.
- Place a spoonful of the blanched and chopped spinach onto the ham layer.
- If desired, add a small slice of Fontina cheese on top of the spinach for an extra creamy center.
Step 4: Roll the Chicken
- Begin rolling the chicken tightly from one end to the other, ensuring the filling stays intact.
- Secure each roll with a toothpick to hold its shape during cooking.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken Rolls
- Heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken rolls and sear them on all sides until golden brown.
Step 6: Deglaze and Cook Through
- Once the rolls are evenly browned, pour the white wine into the skillet. Allow it to simmer and reduce for a minute or two.
- Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and cook the rolls for approximately 15 minutes.
- If the pan becomes too dry during cooking, add a splash of hot water to maintain moisture.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the toothpicks from the cooked rolls.
- Plate the chicken rolls, garnishing with any pan juices or additional spinach for presentation.
- Serve hot alongside a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, or buttery mashed potatoes.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality Fontina cheese enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Pounding the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is uniformly thin to promote even cooking and easier rolling.
- Cooking Time: Monitor the rolls during cooking to prevent overcooking, as chicken breast can dry out quickly.
- Pairing Ideas: A light white wine such as Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with this dish.
Variations
- Cheese Substitute: Swap Fontina for mozzarella or provolone for a slightly different flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Add a sprinkle of Italian herbs like oregano or thyme to the filling for an aromatic twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with thin slices of zucchini or eggplant for a meatless alternative.
This Chicken Rolls Recipe is an easy yet elegant dish that brings together simplicity and sophistication. Whether served at a casual dinner or a festive occasion, these flavorful rolls are bound to become a favorite on your dining table. Happy cooking!
