Chicken Roulade: A Gourmet Delight Made Easy

 

Chicken roulade is an elegant and delicious dish that involves rolling up chicken breasts with a flavorful filling, then baking or pan-searing them to perfection. This versatile dish can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as cheeses, herbs, vegetables, or cured meats, allowing you to customize it to your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply want to elevate your weeknight meals, chicken roulade is a fantastic choice. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make chicken roulade, provide tips for achieving the best results, and offer some tasty variations to try.

What is Chicken Roulade?

Chicken roulade is a dish made by flattening chicken breasts, placing a filling on top, rolling them up, and then cooking them until tender and juicy. The term “roulade” comes from the French word “rouler,” which means “to roll.” The rolled-up chicken is often tied with kitchen twine or secured with toothpicks to maintain its shape during cooking. Once cooked, the roulade is usually sliced into rounds, revealing the beautiful swirl of filling inside.

Ingredients for Chicken Roulade

To make a delicious chicken roulade, you will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken Breasts: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts. These are the base of the dish and provide a lean, tender protein.
• Cheese: 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, provolone, or Gruyère cheese. Adds a creamy, melty texture to the filling.
• Spinach: 1 cup of fresh spinach leaves, chopped. Adds color, flavor, and nutrition to the filling.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, chopped. Provides a tangy, sweet contrast to the creamy cheese.
• Garlic: 2 cloves of garlic, minced. Enhances the overall flavor of the filling.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Used for sautéing the filling and searing the roulades.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. For seasoning the chicken and filling.
• Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil, parsley, or thyme (optional). Adds a fresh, aromatic note to the filling.

These ingredients combine to create a delicious and flavorful chicken roulade that’s perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts:
Start by placing each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable plastic bag. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about 1/4 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to roll.

2. Make the Filling:
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheese and fresh herbs, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Roulades:
Lay the pounded chicken breasts flat on a clean surface. Divide the filling evenly among the chicken breasts, spreading it over each piece, leaving a small border around the edges. Starting from the narrower end, tightly roll up each chicken breast around the filling. Secure the roulades with kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep them intact during cooking.

4. Sear the Roulades:
In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken roulades and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown all over. This helps lock in the juices and adds flavor to the chicken.

5. Bake the Roulades:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the seared roulades to a baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

6. Rest and Slice:
Remove the chicken roulades from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the chicken moist. Remove the kitchen twine or toothpicks and slice the roulades into 1-inch rounds.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
Arrange the sliced chicken roulade on a serving platter and garnish with additional fresh herbs, if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

These steps guide you through making a delicious and elegant chicken roulade that’s perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Roulade

To ensure your chicken roulade turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: Flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and makes them easier to roll up.
• Secure the Roulades Well: Use kitchen twine or toothpicks to securely hold the roulades together while they cook. This helps maintain their shape and prevents the filling from leaking out.
• Sear for Flavor: Searing the chicken roulades before baking adds flavor and helps lock in the juices, resulting in a tender and juicy finished dish.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the chicken roulades with a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through. The chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• Rest Before Slicing: Allow the chicken roulades to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps retain the juices and makes the chicken easier to slice.

Following these tips will help you create a delicious and beautifully presented chicken roulade every time.

Delicious Variations and Add-Ins

Chicken roulade is versatile and can be customized with a variety of add-ins and variations. Here are some ideas to try:

• Prosciutto and Asparagus Chicken Roulade: Layer slices of prosciutto and a few spears of blanched asparagus inside each chicken breast before rolling up for an Italian-inspired twist.
• Mushroom and Goat Cheese Chicken Roulade: Sauté sliced mushrooms and mix them with creamy goat cheese for a rich, earthy filling.
• Caprese Chicken Roulade: Add slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil leaves to the filling for a Caprese-inspired roulade.
• Spinach and Artichoke Chicken Roulade: Mix chopped spinach, artichoke hearts, and cream cheese for a creamy and tangy filling.
• Buffalo Chicken Roulade: Spread a layer of cream cheese mixed with buffalo sauce and blue cheese crumbles inside the chicken breasts for a spicy twist.

These variations allow you to customize your chicken roulade to suit your taste and create a delicious and unique meal.

Nutritional Information

Chicken roulade is a nutritious and satisfying dish that can be part of a balanced diet. Here’s a general breakdown based on one serving (1 roulade):

Per Serving (Based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 550mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 4g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 34g

Balancing Indulgence:

Chicken roulade can be a delicious and elegant part of a balanced meal when enjoyed in moderation. Pair it with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or whole grains for a complete and nutritious meal.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken roulade is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• With Mashed Potatoes: Serve chicken roulade with creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• With Rice Pilaf: Pair the dish with a flavorful rice pilaf or quinoa for a light and nutritious accompaniment.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve chicken roulade with a side of roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans for added color and nutrition.
• With a Side Salad: Serve chicken roulade with a fresh green salad or Caesar salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
• As a Fancy Dinner: Arrange the chicken roulade slices on a platter with a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a light cream sauce for an elegant presentation.

These serving suggestions will help you enjoy chicken roulade in a variety of ways, whether you’re having it for a family dinner or a special occasion.

FAQs

Can I make chicken roulade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare chicken roulade ahead of time. Assemble the roulades up to the point of baking, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed.

Can I freeze chicken roulade?

Yes, chicken roulade freezes well. Assemble the roulades and freeze them on a baking sheet until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

How do I store leftover chicken roulade?

Store leftover chicken roulade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier and more flavorful roulade. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook.

Is chicken roulade suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, chicken roulade can be made low-carb by using a filling that is low in carbohydrates, such as cheese, herbs, and low-carb vegetables like spinach and mushrooms.

Conclusion

Chicken roulade is a delicious and elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender chicken, flavorful filling, and beautiful presentation, this dish is sure to impress. By following the steps and tips outlined in this guide, you can create a delicious chicken roulade that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or entertaining guests. Enjoy experimenting with different variations and add-ins to make this recipe your own, and savor the gourmet goodness of chicken roulade!