Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Special equipment needed:
- Meat mallet
- Toothpicks
- Baking dish
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board and use a meat mallet to pound them to an even thickness.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
4. Spoon the spinach and tomato mixture onto one side of each chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Roll up each chicken breast tightly, tucking in the ends to create a neat package. Secure each roll with toothpicks.
6. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken rolls and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
7. Transfer the chicken rolls to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
8. Remove the toothpicks and slice the chicken rolls into rounds.
9. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 315
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 36g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Fresh basil or parsley can be used instead of spinach.
- Sun-dried tomatoes can be substituted with roasted red peppers.
- Feta cheese can be used instead of mozzarella cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon or prosciutto to the filling for extra flavor.
- Use goat cheese instead of mozzarella cheese for a tangy twist.
- Substitute chicken with pork or beef for a different meat option.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Use toothpicks to secure the chicken rolls and prevent the filling from falling out.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
Reheat in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the sliced chicken rolls on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs.
Garnishes:
Fresh herbs such as basil or parsley.
Pairings:
- Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli.
- Garlic mashed potatoes or rice pilaf.
Suggested side dishes:
- Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli.
- Garlic mashed potatoes or rice pilaf.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the chicken rolls are not browning evenly, adjust the heat on the skillet.
- If the filling is falling out of the chicken rolls, use more toothpicks to secure them.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with raw chicken to prevent cross-contamination.
Food history:
Stuffed chicken breasts have been a popular dish for centuries, with variations found in cuisines from around the world.
Flavor profiles:
This dish has a savory and slightly tangy flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese, balanced by the mild flavor of the chicken.
Serving suggestions:
Serve with a side salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.
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