Indulge in this delightful mozzarella & jalapeno chicken roulade recipe that marries the creaminess of mozzarella with the spicy kick of jalapenos. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this roulade is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavors that will impress your family and friends. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with this easy-to-follow recipe that promises satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients
– 2 large chicken breasts, flattened
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 2-3 jalapenos, sliced (adjust to taste)
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for drizzling
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, while cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 roulade) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 5g
– Fat: 22g
– Fiber: 1g
(Note: Nutritional values are estimates for one person.)
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lay the flattened chicken breasts on a clean surface.
3. In a bowl, mix the mozzarella, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
5. Arrange jalapeno slices on top of the cheese mixture.
6. Carefully roll the chicken breasts from one end to the other.
7. Secure the roulades with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
8. Place the rolled chicken in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.
10. Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute the mozzarella with a cheese of your choice, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile. You can also replace jalapenos with bell peppers for a milder taste.
Serving and Pairings
This roulade pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover roulade in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This dish can be frozen before cooking; just thaw and bake when ready.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry; use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors.
- Rolling the chicken too tightly can cause the filling to spill out.
- Skipping the resting time after baking can lead to juices running out when sliced.
- Using too much filling may make it difficult to roll properly.
Helpful Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the flavors stick.
- Use fresh jalapenos for a crisp texture and vibrant flavor.
- Let the roulade rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
- Experiment with herbs like basil or oregano for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw them completely before flattening and assembling the roulade for even cooking.
What can I serve with the chicken roulade?
This dish goes well with a simple green salad, roasted potatoes, or a side of steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. A meat thermometer is the best way to check.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the roulade, refrigerate it, and bake it when ready to serve for a quick meal.
Is there a vegetarian version of this roulade?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with eggplant or zucchini slices, and use plant-based cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.
Conclusion
The mozzarella & jalapeno chicken roulade is a fantastic dish that combines rich flavors and beautiful presentation. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Mozzarella & Jalapeno Chicken Roulade
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts flattened
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 2-3 jalapenos sliced
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lay the flattened chicken breasts on a clean surface.
- In a bowl, mix the mozzarella, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Arrange jalapeno slices on top of the cheese mixture.
- Carefully roll the chicken breasts from one end to the other.
- Secure the roulades with kitchen twine or toothpicks.
- Place the rolled chicken in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked.
- Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve.
