Indulge in the delightful blend of flavors with our Chicken Pesto Roll-Ups, where succulent chicken meets the rich, herby taste of pesto and the creamy texture of mozzarella, all complemented by the fresh sharpness of tomato. This dish is a testament to the simplicity and elegance of Italian cooking, offering a perfect meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Ideal for a family dinner or a special occasion, these roll-ups will leave everyone craving more!
Ingredients:
- 4 medium/large chicken breasts (about 2 lbs total)
- Garlic salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup pesto sauce (Costco’s pesto recommended)
- 8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese (reserve 2 oz for topping)
- 1 large or 2 medium tomatoes, sliced into 12 thin rings
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional, for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves, shredded (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough before the chicken goes in.
- Prepare Chicken: Flatten the chicken breasts to about 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. Season both sides with garlic salt and black pepper.
- Add Pesto and Cheese: Spread about 2 tablespoons of pesto sauce over each flattened chicken breast. Then sprinkle about 1.5 oz of mozzarella on top of the pesto, leaving a small margin around the edges.
- Add Tomatoes and Roll: Place three tomato rings on each chicken breast. Carefully roll up the chicken, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Bake: Place the chicken roll-ups seam side down in a greased baking dish. Top each roll-up with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Cook: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and accompany with cherry tomatoes if desired.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is not only flavorful but also offers several nutritional benefits:
- Protein: Chicken is a great source of lean protein, necessary for muscle repair and growth.
- Antioxidants: The ingredients in pesto, especially basil and garlic, contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress in the body.
- Calcium: Mozzarella provides calcium, which is essential for bone health.
Cooking Tips
- Chicken Preparation: Ensure that the chicken breasts are evenly flattened to about ¼ inch thickness to promote even cooking and easy rolling.
- Securing the Roll-Ups: Use toothpicks to secure the roll-ups, preventing them from unraveling during baking. Remember to remove them before serving.
- Doneness Check: Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken has reached the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
- Accompaniments: Serve these Chicken Pesto Roll-Ups with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or over cooked pasta to make a more filling meal.
- Wine Pairing: Complement this dish with a glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which pairs wonderfully with the herby flavors of pesto.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare these roll-ups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake, making this recipe perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Pesto Roll-Ups are loved for their simplicity and the sophisticated flavors they bring to the dinner table. They are quick to prepare, customizable with your favorite types of cheese or additions like spinach or different herbs, and are sure to impress guests with their beautiful presentation and delicious taste.