Chicken Rollantini With Pesto
Chicken Rollantini with pesto features tender chicken breasts filled with mozzarella and ham, coated in crispy bread crumbs, offering rich flavors perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and roll a piece of ham around each piece of mozzarella cheese.
- Smear inside of each chicken pocket with 1 1/2 teaspoons of pesto.
- Place the ham and cheese roll inside the pocket and press together to seal.
- Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured chicken in beaten eggs with water, then dredge in bread crumbs.
- Place the coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for about 30 minutes until cooked through and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using turkey or chicken sausage in place of the ham. You can also swap mozzarella for provolone for a sharper flavor. Ensure the chicken is pounded thin for easier rolling and even cooking. To enhance the dish, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach to the filling. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to fit various Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken rollantini alongside a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A side of pasta or garlic bread complements the dish well. This recipe pairs beautifully with Italian Vegetable Combo, creating a delightful Italian-inspired feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken rollantini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. For best results, cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Rollantini With Pesto contains roughly 1151 calories, with 29g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 95g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (59% of the Daily Value), protein (57% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 775mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken rollantini up to the baking step, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're heated through.
What can I use instead of pesto?
If you're out of pesto, consider using a homemade blend of basil, garlic, olive oil, and pine nuts or even a store-bought basil sauce. For a different flavor profile, you could also use a sun-dried tomato spread for a unique twist.
Can I freeze the chicken rollantini?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but uncooked chicken rollantini. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).