Pesto Stuffed Chicken Roll-ups: A Taste of Italian Elegance

Imagine indulging in a chicken dish that tastes like fine dining, but with the comfort of homemade.

Our chicken roll-ups are a symphony of flavors that harmonize perfectly to create a dish that is not only visually enticing but also exceptionally delicious.

Enveloped in juicy chicken breast are the stars of the show: rich pesto, ripe tomatoes, and melty cheese. This is not just a meal, it’s an experience.

Crafting the Pesto Stuffed Chicken Roll-ups

Preparing the Chicken

Begin with 4 chicken breasts, slice each lengthwise to create 8 thin cutlets. For an even 0.125-inch thickness, lightly pound each cutlet.

An efficient and clean method involves using a Ziploc bag for this task. If a meat mallet is unavailable, a heavy saucepan works effectively as a substitute.

Once the chicken is prepared, arrange your cutlets on a large cutting board or baking sheet.

Seasoning and Stuffing

Next, season both sides of the cutlets with garlic salt and black pepper for a savory touch.

Then, flip the cutlets, taking care not to tear their thin structure. It’s time to introduce our first star ingredient: the pesto. Spread a tablespoon of the sauce over each cutlet, focusing it in the center.

Subsequently, thin slices of a large tomato are required. Twelve rings in total. Place two slices on each chicken cutlet, the burst of color hinting at the burst of flavor within.

Lastly, sprinkle two to three tablespoons of shredded mozzarella cheese over the tomatoes, a creamy addition that binds the elements together.

Roll and Secure

Once the stuffing is complete, roll each cutlet tightly. Secure the end with a toothpick to hold these bundles of flavor together during the cooking process.

These wooden tools seal in all that fantastic taste, making every bite worthwhile.

Cook to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Simultaneously, place a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon each of olive oil and butter for that added richness.

As the butter ceases to sizzle, place the chicken roll-ups toothpick side up in the skillet. Sear the roll-ups for 4 minutes on each side, resulting in 8 minutes of stovetop cooking time.

Final Touches

Switch off the stove, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on the roll-ups. Introduce 1 cup of cherry tomatoes to the skillet, a colorful and tasty addition.

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake the roll-ups at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 13 to 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through.

Garnish and Serve

As the kitchen fills with irresistible aromas, prepare for the final touches. Fresh basil leaves serve as the perfect garnish, enhancing the vibrant visual appeal and resonating with the basil in the pesto.

Be sure to remove the toothpicks before serving.

The juicy, tender chicken reveals a delightful surprise of pesto, tomatoes, and cheese as you slice into it. A truly tantalizing treat!

Tips and Variations:

To add a spicy kick to the recipe, consider adding a touch of crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken before rolling. For a burst of freshness, consider using homemade pesto sauce.

Vegans can substitute mozzarella with vegan cheese and chicken with seitan or tofu. These adjustments can personalize the dish while preserving the delicious essence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought pesto?

Yes, store-bought pesto can be a great time saver. However, homemade pesto can add a fresh flavor.

Can this recipe be made ahead?

Absolutely! Prepare the chicken roll-ups, refrigerate them, and bake just before serving.

What to serve with this dish?

These chicken roll-ups pair well with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread.

Kitchen Tools/Equipment Needed:

1. Large Cutting Board
2. Meat Mallet or Heavy Saucepan
3. Large Oven-Safe Skillet
4. Toothpicks

Print