These Chicken Mozzarella Rolls are a flavorful and satisfying dish, combining tender chicken breast with gooey mozzarella cheese and crunchy carrots, all wrapped up and baked to perfection. Paired with a fresh and vibrant cabbage salad, this meal is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, these chicken rolls are sure to impress.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Rolls:
- Chicken Breast: 700 grams (about 1.5 lbs), flattened
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: 7 grams (about 1 teaspoon)
- Salt: 10 grams (about 1.5 teaspoons)
- Mozzarella Cheese (for stuffing): 150 grams (about 5.3 oz), sliced
- Mozzarella Cheese (for topping): 100 grams (about 3.5 oz), grated
- Carrots: 150 grams (about 1 large carrot), thinly sliced
- Fresh Parsley: 15 grams (about 1/4 cup), finely chopped
- Plain Yogurt: 150 grams (about 2/3 cup)
For the Salad:
- Green Cabbage: 200 grams (about 2 cups), thinly sliced
- Red Cabbage: 200 grams (about 2 cups), thinly sliced
- Cucumbers: 2 medium, sliced
- Cherry Tomatoes: 150 grams (about 1 cup), halved
- Canned Corn: 100 grams (about 1/2 cup), drained
- Mayonnaise: 30 grams (about 2 tablespoons)
- Salt: 8 grams (about 1.5 teaspoons)
- Garlic: 10 grams (about 2 cloves), minced
Directions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Flatten the chicken breasts to about 1/4 inch thickness by placing them between plastic wrap or parchment paper and gently pounding with a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking and makes rolling easier.
- Season:
- Sprinkle both sides of the flattened chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper for flavor.
- Stuff the Chicken:
- Lay the flattened chicken breasts on a clean surface. Place slices of mozzarella cheese and thinly sliced carrots on one end of each chicken breast. Sprinkle with finely chopped parsley for an added burst of freshness.
- Roll the Chicken:
- Carefully roll up the chicken breasts, starting from the end with the stuffing. Secure the rolls with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling inside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a bit of plant oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken rolls and cook until golden brown on all sides and cooked through, approximately 7-10 minutes per side.
- Top and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Transfer the cooked chicken rolls to a baking dish, top with grated mozzarella cheese, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the green cabbage, red cabbage, sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and drained canned corn. Add mayonnaise, minced garlic, and salt. Toss everything together until well combined.
- Serve:
- Serve the Chicken Mozzarella Rolls hot, alongside the fresh cabbage salad.
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish the chicken rolls with additional parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a more substantial meal.
- Drizzle the salad with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice for added flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the chicken rolls are tightly rolled to prevent the stuffing from leaking out during cooking.
- If you prefer a crispier texture, broil the chicken rolls for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
Nutritional Benefits:
- Chicken Breast is a lean source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, promoting immune health and bone strength.
- Mozzarella Cheese provides calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle function.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
- Low-Carb: The chicken rolls are low in carbohydrates, making them suitable for low-carb diets.
- High-Protein: Packed with protein from the chicken and mozzarella cheese.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
Storage:
- Refrigerator: Store leftover chicken rolls and salad separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken rolls in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezer: The cooked chicken rolls can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 180°C (356°F) oven until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of tender chicken, gooey mozzarella, and fresh herbs makes these rolls irresistibly delicious.
- Nutritious: High in protein and packed with vitamins from the cabbage salad, this meal is both tasty and healthy.
- Versatile: Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps with a rewarding result that will impress your family and guests.
Conclusion:
These Chicken Mozzarella Rolls with a fresh cabbage salad make for a delightful and well-rounded meal. The juicy chicken filled with mozzarella and carrots, topped with more melted cheese, pairs perfectly with the crunchy and vibrant salad. Whether you’re looking for a new dinner recipe or something special for the weekend, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished. Enjoy the balance of flavors and textures that make this meal truly special.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use another type of cheese for the stuffing?
- Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda.
- Can I prepare the chicken rolls in advance?
- Yes, you can prepare the rolls and refrigerate them for up to a day before cooking.
- What can I use instead of yogurt for the chicken rolls?
- You can substitute plain yogurt with sour cream or a dairy-free alternative.
- How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking?
- Ensure the chicken rolls are tightly sealed, and use toothpicks if needed to secure them.
- Can I grill the chicken rolls instead of frying them?
- Yes, grilling is a great alternative. Just ensure they are fully cooked through.
- Can I add other vegetables to the salad?
- Absolutely! You can add bell peppers, radishes, or carrots for extra crunch and color.
- Is there a way to make the salad dressing lighter?
- You can reduce the amount of mayonnaise or mix it with yogurt for a lighter dressing.
- How can I make the chicken rolls spicier?
- Add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- What side dishes go well with this meal?
- Steamed vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a quinoa salad would complement the dish nicely.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
- Yes, chicken thighs can be used, but they may require slightly longer cooking time.