This recipe for Homemade Chicken Rolls with Mozzarella and Carrot, accompanied by a fresh, crisp salad, is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying. The tender chicken, rich in flavor, perfectly complements the creamy mozzarella and the crunch of fresh carrots, making each bite a delightful experience. The addition of a vibrant salad adds a refreshing contrast, making this dish a perfect choice for family dinners or special occasions.
The beauty of this dish lies not only in its flavors but also in its presentation. The golden-brown chicken rolls, topped with melted mozzarella, alongside the colorful salad, make for a visually appealing plate that promises to entice the senses before the first bite is even taken. It’s a testament to the fact that homemade meals can be both comforting and elegant, offering a wholesome experience that brings joy to the table.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Rolls:
- 700 grams of chicken breast
- 7 grams of freshly ground black pepper
- 10 grams of salt
- 150 grams of mozzarella cheese, sliced (for stuffing)
- 100 grams of mozzarella cheese, grated (for topping)
- 150 grams of carrots, thinly sliced
- 15 grams of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 150 grams of plain yogurt
For the Salad:
- 200 grams of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 200 grams of red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 cucumbers, sliced
- 150 grams of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 100 grams of canned corn, drained
- 30 grams of mayonnaise
- 8 grams of salt
- 10 grams of garlic, minced
Directions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Flatten the chicken breasts to about 1/4 inch thickness by pounding them gently. This helps in even cooking and easy rolling.
- Season: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper for flavor.
- Stuff: Place slices of mozzarella cheese and thinly sliced carrots on one end of each chicken breast. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for an added burst of freshness.
- Roll: Carefully roll up the chicken breasts, securing them with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling inside.
- Cook: In a large skillet, heat a bit of plant oil over medium heat. Add the chicken rolls, cooking until they’re 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). Place the cooked chicken rolls in a baking dish, top with grated mozzarella, and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10 minutes.
For the Salad:
- Combine Vegetables: In a large salad bowl, mix together thinly sliced green and red cabbage, sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, and drained canned corn.
- Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, minced garlic, and salt until well combined.
- Toss: Pour the dressing over the salad and toss until the vegetables are well coated. Adjust seasoning to taste.
To Serve:
Arrange the chicken rolls on a platter and serve alongside the fresh salad. This meal not only offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures but also brings a colorful presentation to your table.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 65 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Flavor Variations
- Mediterranean Medley: Combine crumbled feta cheese, diced olives, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
- Asian Fusion: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for a flavorful Asian-inspired dish.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the filling for a spicy twist.
- Creamy Delight: Incorporate a dollop of cream cheese or ricotta cheese to the filling for a creamy and indulgent texture.
Presentation and Texture
- Crispy Exterior: Roll the chicken rolls in breadcrumbs or crushed nuts before baking for a crunchy exterior.
- Colorful Garnish: Garnish the chicken rolls with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a visually appealing presentation.
- Sauce Drizzle: Drizzle the chicken rolls with a tangy lemon-herb sauce or a creamy mushroom sauce for added flavor.
Side Dish Ideas
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair the chicken rolls with roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus for a nutritious and flavorful accompaniment.
- Grain Bowl: Serve with quinoa, brown rice, or couscous for a complete meal.
- Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken rolls.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting and satisfying side dish.
Dietary Considerations
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the mozzarella cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
Additional Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- Leftovers: Reheat leftovers in the oven or microwave.
- Batch Cooking: Make a larger batch of chicken rolls and freeze them for a quick and easy meal later.
Recipe Expansion
For a more indulgent meal, consider adding the following:
- Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Sauté mushrooms in butter, add flour, and gradually whisk in chicken broth and cream. Season with salt and pepper.
- Lemon-Herb Sauce: Combine melted butter, lemon juice, and chopped fresh herbs like parsley and dill.
- Baked Potato: Serve the chicken rolls with a baked potato topped with butter, sour cream, and chives.
To make the dish more kid-friendly:
- Cut into Smaller Pieces: Cut the chicken rolls into smaller pieces for easier eating.
- Mild Flavor: Use less salt and pepper, or omit the spicy ingredients.
- Fun Presentation: Arrange the chicken rolls in a fun shape, such as a smiley face or a castle.
For a healthier option:
- Reduce Fat: Use lean chicken breast and reduce the amount of cheese.
- Increase Vegetables: Add more vegetables to the filling and side dishes.
- Choose Healthy Fats: Use olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter.