Rolled Chicken Washington
Introduction
Are you ready to elevate your culinary skills with a recipe that’s sure to impress? Rolled Chicken Washington is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken breasts with a flavorful filling, all rolled up and cooked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to treat yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s dive into the world of Rolled Chicken Washington and discover why this dish is so special.
Prepping the Chicken
- Butterfly the Chicken: Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a butterfly cut. This will make it easier to roll.
- Pound the Chicken: Place the butterflied chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound it with a meat mallet until it’s evenly thin.
Creating the Filling
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped spinach, and mushrooms. Cook until the spinach is wilted and the mushrooms are tender.
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Assembling the Roll
- Spread the Filling: Lay the pounded chicken breasts flat and evenly spread the filling mixture over each piece.
- Roll the Chicken: Starting from one end, tightly roll each chicken breast. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
Cooking Instructions
Baking vs. Frying
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the rolled chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown.
- Frying: Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the rolled chicken and cook, turning occasionally, until all sides are browned and the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time and Temperature
- Oven: 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes
- Skillet: Medium-high heat for about 15-20 minutes
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes to Complement
- Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic
- Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
Presentation Tips
- Slicing: Slice the rolled chicken into medallions for a beautiful presentation.
- Garnish: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Nutritional Information
Calories and Macronutrients
- Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 15g
Health Benefits
- High in Protein: Great for muscle building and repair.
- Low in Carbs: Suitable for low-carb diets.
- Rich in Vitamins: Spinach and mushrooms provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Tips for Success
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling: Be careful not to overfill the chicken, as it can make rolling difficult.
- Not Securing the Roll: Use toothpicks to keep the roll intact during cooking.
Expert Tips
- Chill the Chicken: Refrigerate the rolled chicken for 10-15 minutes before cooking to help it hold its shape.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and mushrooms enhance the flavor.
Variations of the Recipe
Stuffing Alternatives
- Ham and Cheese: Add a slice of ham and Swiss cheese inside the chicken.
- Herb and Cream Cheese: Mix cream cheese with fresh herbs for a creamy filling.
Different Cooking Methods
- Grilling: Grill the rolled chicken for a smoky flavor.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 4-6 hours for a tender, juicy result.
Pairing with Wines and Beverages
Best Wines
- Chardonnay: Its buttery flavor complements the chicken well.
- Pinot Noir: A light red wine that pairs nicely with the flavors of the filling.
Non-Alcoholic Options
- Sparkling Water: A refreshing choice with a slice of lemon.
- Herbal Tea: Mint or chamomile tea to enhance the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze rolled chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
Can You Freeze It?
- Absolutely! Freeze the rolled chicken before or after cooking, depending on your preference.
Conclusion
Rolled Chicken Washington is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its flavorful filling and impressive presentation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you bake or fry, serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. Happy cooking!
FAQs
What can I use instead of spinach?
You can substitute spinach with kale, Swiss chard, or even arugula for a slightly different flavor.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Ensure all ingredients, including any seasonings and cheeses, are gluten-free. No need to worry about breading since this recipe doesn’t require it.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the rolled chicken up to a day in advance. Keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to cook.
What should I do if my chicken rolls fall apart?
Secure them with additional toothpicks and be gentle when handling. Chilling the rolls before cooking can also help them hold their shape.
How can I make the filling spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to the filling mixture for an extra kick.
Rolled Chicken Washington
Are you ready to elevate your culinary skills with a recipe that's sure to impress? Rolled Chicken Washington is a delightful dish that combines succulent chicken breasts with a flavorful filling, all rolled up and cooked to perfection. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking to treat yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Let's dive into the world of Rolled Chicken Washington and discover why this dish is so special.
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 4 Large Chicken breasts Pounded to 1/4 inch thickness
- 4 Slices Deli ham
- 2-4 Slices American cheese Freshly sliced from deli
- 1-2 Cups Seasoned bread crumbs
- 3 Large eggs Whisked, for dipping
- For cheese sauce:
- 14-15 Slices American Cheese
- 1 Cup Milk
- 1 Tablespoon Unsalted butter
Instructions
For the Chicken:
- Place chicken breasts between plastic wrap and using a meat tenderizer pound from center of breast outward to about a 1/4 inch thickness. Set aside.
- Line up your ingredients: Place bread crumbs in a large bowl or plate. Crack eggs in a bowl and whisk. Place cheese and ham slices on a plate.
- Unwrap pounded chicken and cut into pieces about the size of your whole hand. (This may or may not be necessary. Just eyeball it)
- Place a slice of ham and then a slice of cheese on chicken and roll up length wise. Try to tuck in sides best you can to prevent leakage.
- If needed secure with toothpicks. (Just be careful to remove before serving)
- Dip rolls in egg to coat then in bread crumbs. Set aside on a platter and repeat with the rest of chicken.
- Heat oil in a large skillet on medium high. ( These are usually deep fried but I like to use a little oil at a time and turn rolls in the pan to brown all sides.) This is just to brown the chicken. The remainder of the cooking process will occur in the oven. It should produce a nice juicy product.
- Remove chicken to a plate with a paper towel to soak up any oil.
- Place rolls in a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes.
- While chicken is cooking prepare cheese sauce.
For Cheese Sauce:
- Heat milk in small sauce pan with butter on medium heat. Watch closely so it does not come to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low and add cheese a slice at a time stirring constantly to melt.
- Once completely melted and incorporated remove from heat and set aside. If a skin forms on top just peel off or reheat and stir .
- Serve in a gravy boat.