Chicken San Marino
Chicken San Marino features tender chicken breasts wrapped with ham and cheese, breaded and pan-fried, then baked to perfection—rich, savory, and ideal for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pound each chicken piece between two pieces of wax paper or foil to flatten slightly.
- Cut cheese into strips, one per chicken piece. Wrap cheese in ham.
- Place the cheese and ham wrap on the chicken and roll tightly.
- Secure each roll with toothpicks.
- Combine flour and salt in a shallow dish. Dip each chicken roll in flour mixture.
- Then dip in beaten egg.
- Finally, coat with dry bread crumbs.
- Saute in butter until browned on all sides.
- Transfer to a baking dish. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20 minutes or until chicken is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider marinating the chicken in herbs and lemon juice before preparing. If Swiss or Fontina cheese is unavailable, try mozzarella or even a sharp cheddar for a different taste profile. Ensure the chicken is pounded evenly for consistent cooking. For added crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular dry bread crumbs, which will give a delightful texture to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken San Marino with a side of garlic mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Pair it with a light white wine to complement the flavors. This dish also pairs beautifully with Italian recipes like Chicken Francaise or Chicken Fettuccine for a delightful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they maintain their moisture. For best results, avoid using a microwave as it may dry out the chicken.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken San Marino contains roughly 414 calories, with 7g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), iron (10% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2037mg per serving (89% 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 prepare Chicken San Marino in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken rolls a day in advance. Simply assemble them and store in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just be sure to coat them with breadcrumbs right before frying for the best texture.
What can I substitute for the ham in this recipe?
If you prefer not to use ham, you can substitute it with turkey bacon or thin slices of smoked turkey for a lighter option. Alternatively, omit the meat entirely and use a layer of sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check this. The juices should run clear, and the chicken should no longer be pink inside. This will ensure that the chicken is tender and safe to eat.
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).