There’s something so comforting about a hearty chicken dish that fills the kitchen with fantastic aromas, reminding you of cozy family dinners and laughter echoing off the walls. I remember the first time I made these Pesto Provolone Parcel Perfection Juicy Chicken Roll Ups on a rainy Saturday afternoon. With the sound of raindrops pattering against the window, I felt like I was creating a little warmth right in my oven. Each bite is a delightful combination of flavors that puts a smile on your face, making it a standout hero for any weeknight dinner.
As the name suggests, these roll-ups are not just about chicken. They’re stuffed with creamy provolone cheese and zesty pesto, bringing that delightful Italian flair right to your dining table. It’s simple to prepare, and the taste is just out of this world, making this dish my go-to for busy days or for special occasions when I want to impress. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into the magic of these scrumptious roll-ups!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy weeknight dinner that comes together in no time.
- Budget-friendly ingredients that won’t break the bank.
- A comforting and cheesy flavor combo that everyone will love.
- Perfect for meal prep—make a batch and enjoy all week!
Ingredients
Alright, let’s gather everything we need to whip up these delicious chicken roll-ups! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces each)
- 1 cup of fresh pesto (store-bought or homemade, your choice!)
- 1 cup of sliced provolone cheese
- 1 cup of fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (fresh garlic adds more punch, if you prefer!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional but oh-so-lovely!)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Pesto Provolone Parcel Perfection Juicy Chicken Roll Ups:
- Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, it’s nice and hot when we pop in those delicious roll-ups!
- Prepare the chicken: Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to about 1/2 inch thickness. This not only tenderizes the meat but makes stuffing it much easier!
- Season it up: Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for that extra zing.
- Layer the goodies: Spread a generous layer of pesto over each chicken breast. Then, place a slice of provolone cheese on top, followed by a handful of fresh spinach leaves.
- Roll it up: Starting from one end, carefully roll up each chicken breast tightly. Secure with toothpicks if necessary so they hold together during cooking!
- Make it crispy: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with olive oil. This will make them nicely golden and crunchy when cooked. Roll each chicken parcel in the breadcrumb mixture until they are well-coated.
- Prepare for baking: Place the stuffed chicken rolls seam-side down in a greased baking dish. It’s like creating a little nest for them!
- Bake it: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Don’t open the oven door too often; we want to keep all that heat inside!
- Rest and serve: Once out of the oven, let them rest for about 5 minutes, then remove toothpicks, slice, and serve with your favorite sides!
Pro Tips & Variations
Now that you’ve nailed the basic recipe, let’s get creative! Here are a few fun twists and pro tips to switch things up:
- Cheese options: While provolone brings a creamy richness, feel free to swap it out with mozzarella, gouda, or even a sharp cheddar!
- Add some heat: If you love a bit of spice, drizzle some chili flakes or add thin slices of jalapeño to the inside.
- Veggie lovers: Swap out some of the spinach for roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
- Herb it up: Consider whisking some fresh herbs into the pesto, like parsley, cilantro, or even a bit of mint for a fresh twist!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving these glorious chicken roll-ups, I love to keep it simple and cozy. They pair wonderfully with a light side salad, seasoned rice, or even pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic. For something comforting, try serving them with a warm, crusty bread that’s perfect for mopping up any leftover pesto sauce on your plate. If you’re feeling fancy, a glass of white wine on the side never hurt either!
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), no worries! Here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Place any leftover roll-ups in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: To freeze, wrap the cooked roll-ups tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Just label them so you know what’s inside!
- Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw them overnight in the fridge. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through—this helps keep them juicy!
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Turkey is a great alternative and can make these roll-ups even leaner while still being delicious. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it might differ slightly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
For sure! You can prepare the roll-ups a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This is fantastic for making weeknight dinners even easier!
What should I serve with these roll-ups?
A fresh salad is always a lovely complement, or you could pair them with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple risotto for an extra treat!
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Definitely! Experimenting with different cheeses can be fun. Try mozzarella, gouda, or even feta for a tangy twist. The possibilities are endless!
Conclusion
There you have it—the Pesto Provolone Parcel Perfection Juicy Chicken Roll Ups that are sure to steal the show! I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing this dish as I do. Remember, cooking is about love, creativity, and a pinch of fun! If you decide to try this recipe, drop a comment and let me know how it turned out. I’m always delighted to hear your kitchen adventures. Happy cooking, friends!
Unleash Pesto Provolone Parcel Perfection Juicy Chicken Rolls
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Discover delicious Pesto Provolone chicken roll ups Master the art of juicy parcels with our perfect recipe and impress your dinner guests
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken roll up
- Calories: 350 calories
- Sugar: 2 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 10 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 30 grams
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