Chicken Rollatini Spinach Cheese

Chicken rollatini has become my secret weapon for make-ahead dinner parties and cozy family meals alike It combines tender chicken creamy filling and a craveworthy crunchy crust for a dish that always vanishes fast at the table Whether you are feeding a hungry crew or just need to impress with minimal fuss this rollatini keeps things simple while looking like a showstopper

When I first tried rollatini I was searching for a special Sunday dinner for my inlaws The aroma had everyone peeking into the kitchen and the leftovers were fought over the next day

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: pounded thin for tenderness and quick cooking Look for plump fresh breasts for even results
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: brings stretchy gooey texture Try whole milk mozzarella for best melt
• Ricotta cheese: adds creaminess and moisture Choose a goodquality tub with a rich flavor
• Parmesan cheese: infuses nutty umami depth Grate fresh for the sharpest taste
• Fresh spinach: gives earthy flavor and color Freshly sautéed spinach has better texture than frozen
• Italianseasoned breadcrumbs: make the outside crispy with a hint of herbs Panko works for extra crunch
• Large eggs: help the crust stick and keep the chicken juicy Use farmfresh eggs for richer color
• Olive oil: is perfect for panfrying or adding richness when baking Seek out extra virgin for bolder flavor
• Garlic powder and dried basil: bring classic Italian flair
• Salt and pepper: let you season the filling and chicken just right
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley for brightness and extra parmesan on top never hurts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Pound the Chicken:

Lay each breast between sheets of plastic wrap Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken until it is just a quarter inch thick Make sure the chicken is even all over so it cooks uniformly and rolls easily

Mix the Filling:

In a medium bowl combine ricotta parmesan mozzarella sautéed and cooled spinach garlic powder dried basil salt and pepper Stir to make a smooth creamy mixture that spreads well This becomes the cheesy heart of your rollatini

Assemble the Chicken Rolls:

Lay the flattened chicken breasts on a large board Spread a thin layer of the cheese mixture over each piece Leave a small border to keep the filling from oozing out Roll tightly from the short end and secure each one with toothpicks inserted lengthwise

Bread the Rolls:

Pour breadcrumbs into a shallow dish and beaten eggs into another Dip each roll into the egg so it is well coated then press into the breadcrumbs Roll it around to cover all sides for a uniform crust

Choose and Use Your Cooking Method

Baking Method:

Heat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit Set the prepared rolls in a lightly oiled baking dish Place seam side down Bake uncovered for twentyfive to thirty minutes until the crust is golden and the chicken cooked through

PanFrying Method:

Warm olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat When hot add rolls and brown all sides for about three to four minutes per side Transfer to the oven if needed to finish cooking through

Air Frying Method:

Set the air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit Arrange rolls in the basket spaced apart Air fry for ten to fifteen minutes turning once until crispy and HOT inside

Rest and Serve:

Allow cooked rolls to cool for five minutes before serving Remove all toothpicks Scatter fresh parsley and extra parmesan on top Serve immediately while cheese is melty

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Hands down the taste of the parmesan takes everything to another level I love how the sharp cheese blends with rich mozzarella to make every bite feel indulgent Whenever my kids are nearby helping sprinkle cheese we end up laughing and munching together before the meal even hits the table

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep in the fridge in an airtight container for up to three days If you want to freeze rollatini wrap them tightly and freeze individually Then bake or air fry from frozen until hot Let thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out mozzarella for provolone if that is all you have or skip the spinach for sautéed mushrooms or kale Use glutenfree breadcrumbs if needed Cottage cheese works instead of ricotta in a pinch

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Serving Suggestions

Chicken rollatini is delicious over buttered pasta or soft polenta Spoon warm marinara or Alfredo sauce over the top and serve with a crisp salad and some crusty bread for a satisfying meal

Cultural Historical Context

Rollatini is inspired by classic Italian stuffed meat dishes but is often considered an ItalianAmerican comfort food at heart While traditional recipes use veal or eggplant this chicken version is a lighter and more familyfriendly interpretation that has become a weeknight favorite in many homes

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you keep the chicken rolls from unraveling?

To secure the rolls, use toothpicks. Be sure to remove them before serving for safe enjoyment.

→ Can I use other cheeses in the filling?

Mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan add creaminess and flavor, but provolone or fontina also work well.

→ What breadcrumbs make the crispiest coating?

Panko breadcrumbs yield an extra-crispy finish. Italian-seasoned or regular both work wonderfully.

→ Is there a lighter way to cook the rolls?

Air frying gives a golden, crisp texture while using less oil compared to pan-frying or baking.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Place cooled rolls in an airtight container. Refrigerate up to 3 days or freeze for 2 months.

→ What sauces pair best as a finishing touch?

Marinara or Alfredo add richness and moisture, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.