Chicken roll with spinach

Chicken Roll with Spinach - A Delicacy Cooked with Love

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

We present you with a wonderful recipe for chicken roll with spinach, a savory and healthy combination that blends quality proteins with essential vitamins. This recipe is perfect for a family meal or a special lunch with friends. Besides being delicious, it is also easy to prepare, so anyone can become a chef in their own kitchen.

The history of the chicken roll recipe is fascinating, with roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Rolls can be found in different forms around the world, each with its specific ingredients and preparation techniques. This chicken roll with spinach brings a modern touch, emphasizing fresh and healthy ingredients.

Ingredients:
- 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (approximately 400 g)
- 300 g fresh spinach
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large tomato
- 1 carrot
- 4 slices of fillet (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- 1 cup white wine (approximately 240 ml)
- 1 handful of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Step by step:

1. Preparing the spinach: Start by washing the spinach well under cold running water, ensuring you remove any impurities. Then, in a pot, add water with a pinch of salt and bring it to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the spinach and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. After it has softened, remove it with a slotted spoon and place it in a sieve to drain and cool.

2. Preparing the vegetables: Peel the onion and chop it finely. Peel the tomato (you can blanch it to make this process easier) and cut it into small cubes. In a pan, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the onion and tomato for 1-2 minutes until they soften slightly.

3. Adding the spinach: Chop the drained spinach and add it to the pan over the onion and tomato. Season with salt and pepper, add a small cup of water, and let everything simmer over medium heat until the liquid reduces. This will intensify the flavors and make the filling more concentrated.

4. Preparing the carrot: Peel the carrot, cut it in half lengthwise, and boil it in a pot of water until it becomes slightly soft but not overcooked (about 5-7 minutes). Remove it to a plate and let it cool.

5. Preparing the chicken breast: Wash the chicken breast and pat it dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess water. With a sharp knife, start to thin the breast by opening it into strips, being careful not to cut all the way through. Then, use a meat mallet to gently pound it, evening out the thickness.

6. Seasoning: Season the breast with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and dried dill, making sure each side is well covered.

7. Filling the roll: Place the slices of fillet on the chicken breast, then add the spinach and vegetable filling, being careful not to put it at the ends so you can roll the breast. Cut the boiled carrot into strips and place it on top of the filling.

8. Rolling: Gently roll the chicken breast starting from one end, making sure to keep the filling inside. Finally, secure the ends of the roll with toothpicks to maintain its shape.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with butter and place the chicken roll inside. Add a cup of water and the white wine, then sprinkle the chopped parsley on top. Season with a little salt and pepper, cover the dish with a lid or aluminum foil, and bake for 45 minutes.

10. Achieving the crust: After 45 minutes, uncover the dish and let the roll bake for another 10 minutes to achieve a slightly golden and appetizing crust.

11. Serving: Once the roll is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Then, cut it into slices and place it on a platter. You can serve it alongside a fresh salad or mashed potatoes, and a glass of white wine will pair perfectly with this dish.

Nutritional benefits: The chicken roll with spinach is an excellent choice for a healthy meal. Chicken breast is a source of lean protein, while spinach is packed with vitamins (A, C, K) and minerals (iron, calcium). The carrot adds extra fiber and antioxidants, while the tomato complements the dish with lycopene, a health-beneficial ingredient.

Serving suggestions: This roll is versatile and can be served both warm and cold. You can use it as an appetizer, slicing it thinly, or as a main course. A salad of arugula with cherry tomatoes and a lemon vinaigrette will add a delicious contrast.

Vegetarian option: If you want a vegetarian version, replace the chicken breast with a mixture of sautéed mushrooms and tofu. The spinach and vegetable filling remains just as delicious and healthy.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- How can I tell if the roll is cooked? Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 75°C.
- What can I do with leftovers? You can use the leftover slices in sandwiches or salads.

The chicken roll with spinach is a simple yet elegant recipe that will surely impress anyone who tastes it. Try it and let yourself be carried away by its flavor! Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, 300g fresh spinach, 1 onion, 1 large tomato, 1 carrot, 4 slices of fillet steak, salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon dried dill, 1 tablespoon butter, 2 tablespoons oil, 1 cup of wine, fresh parsley