Chicken rolls stuffed with a creamy spinach and cheese filling offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will satisfy any palate. This dish is perfect for a special dinner or a comforting family meal. The tender chicken, combined with the richness of the spinach and cheese filling, creates a harmonious balance that’s both nutritious and delicious. This recipe is straightforward to prepare, yet the result is impressive enough to serve on any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Rolls:
- 3 chicken fillets: Tender and lean, perfect for stuffing and rolling.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon chicken seasoning: A blend of spices to add depth of flavor to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon coriander: Adds a warm, citrusy note that pairs well with the chicken.
- 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped: Adds a rich, aromatic depth to the dish.
- Oil (for frying): Used to sauté the garlic and fry the chicken rolls.
- 500g spinach: Rich in iron and vitamins, it forms the base of the filling.
- 3 tablespoons cream: Adds richness and helps bind the spinach filling.
- 6 slices cheese: Melts beautifully inside the chicken, adding creaminess.
- 100g breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy coating for the chicken rolls.
- 3 eggs: Used to coat the chicken rolls before breading.
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken Rolls
- Prepare the Chicken Fillets: Start by placing each chicken fillet between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a plastic bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the fillets until they are about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures they are thin enough to roll easily.
- Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken fillets with salt, black pepper, chicken seasoning, and coriander. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the filling.
Preparing the Spinach and Cheese Filling
- Cook the Spinach: In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for roughly 1 minute until it becomes aromatic. Next, toss in the spinach and sauté until it’s tender and wilted, which should take about 3-4 minutes. If the spinach releases too much water, drain it to avoid a soggy filling.
- Add the Cream: Stir in the cream and cook for another 2 minutes until the spinach mixture is creamy and well-combined.
- Assemble the Filling: Lay out the chicken fillets on a clean surface. Place a slice of cheese on each fillet, then spoon a portion of the spinach mixture onto the center of the cheese. Roll up the chicken fillet, enclosing the filling, and secure with toothpicks if necessary.
Coating and Frying the Chicken Rolls
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls. In one, place the breadcrumbs. In the second, beat the eggs. Leave the third empty for now.
- Coat the Chicken Rolls: Dip each chicken roll in the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated. Then roll it in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere evenly.
- Fry the Chicken Rolls: In a large skillet, heat enough oil to cover the bottom of the pan over medium heat. Carefully place the breaded chicken rolls in the pan and fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F). If needed, you can finish cooking the rolls in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes to ensure they are fully cooked.
Serving the Chicken Rolls
- Rest and Slice: Allow the chicken rolls to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the rolls moist. Remove any toothpicks, slice the rolls into thick rounds, and serve.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the chicken rolls hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill, alongside a side of your choice—such as mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Conclusion
These chicken rolls with spinach and cheese filling are a delicious and elegant dish that combines the tender texture of chicken with the rich, creamy filling of spinach and cheese. The crispy breadcrumb coating adds a satisfying crunch, while the garlic and coriander infuse the rolls with aromatic flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.