Are you looking for a dinner idea that’s not only delicious but also presents beautifully on the plate? Look no further than these Pesto Chicken Roll-Ups. This dish combines the vibrant flavors of homemade pesto with the rich, comforting taste of sun-dried tomatoes and cheese, all wrapped up in tender chicken cutlets. It’s a recipe that promises to impress your guests or elevate a simple family dinner to something special. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouthwatering meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the chicken roll-ups:
- 3 chicken breasts, sliced horizontally and pounded into cutlets for even thickness
- 1/2 cup finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil for searing
- 1/2 cup heavy cream to create a lush sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for that beautiful melt
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a sharp flavor profile
For the homemade pesto:
- 2 cups loosely packed fresh basil leaves, the heart of any pesto
- 3 cloves garlic, for that punchy flavor
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, because more cheese is always a good idea
- 1/3 cup olive oil for a smooth consistency
- 1/4 cup pine nuts, adding a subtle nuttiness
Directions to Culinary Bliss:
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), setting the stage for baking. Then, prepare your chicken by slicing and pounding it into even cutlets, ensuring they cook uniformly.
- Season: Season each cutlet with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. This not only adds flavor but also enhances the natural taste of the chicken.
- Assemble: Spread a generous layer of your freshly made pesto on each chicken cutlet, followed by a sprinkle of sun-dried tomatoes. Carefully roll the chicken into a tight bundle, securing each with a toothpick to keep everything together.
- Sear: In a hot pan with olive oil, brown the chicken rolls on all sides. This step not only improves the texture but also locks in flavors.
- Bake: Transfer the chicken to a baking dish. Mix the remaining pesto with heavy cream and additional sun-dried tomatoes, and pour this over the chicken. Generously top with both mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Final Touch: Bake in the preheated oven until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
- Serve: Once done, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
Prep and Cook Time:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: Makes 6 delicious pieces
This Pesto Chicken Roll-Up recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience. The combination of homemade pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and melted cheese, all wrapped up in tender chicken, makes for a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to spice up your weekday dinner routine, these chicken roll-ups are sure to please. Enjoy the process, savor each bite, and don’t forget to share this culinary adventure with your loved ones.
Pesto Chicken Roll-Ups
Ingredients:
3 chicken breasts, cut horizontally and pounded into cutlets
1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
For the Pesto:
2 cups fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
3 cloves garlic
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/3 cup olive oil
1/4 cup pine nuts
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Prepare the chicken and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Spread pesto and sun-dried tomatoes on chicken cutlets, roll tightly and secure with a toothpick.
Brown chicken in olive oil, then pour over a mixture of pesto, cream, and remaining sun-dried tomatoes.
Top with cheeses and bake until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes | Servings: 6 pieces