Chicken rolls with sage

Chicken involtini with sage - an elegant yet simple recipe that will add a touch of refinement to your kitchen. These succulent chicken bundles, seasoned with sage and soaked in a rich white wine and vegetable broth sauce, are perfect for a special dinner or to impress friends at a casual meal. Let’s discover together how to prepare this delicious dish!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1-2 chicken breasts (depending on how many people will be at the table)
- 1 sprig of fresh sage
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cups of vegetable broth (preferably homemade)
- 1/2 cup of dry white wine
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity

A brief story:
Involtini, a culinary technique used for centuries, is associated with dishes that involve rolling meat or vegetables in various fillings. Although this recipe doesn’t stuff the chicken breast with additional ingredients, it remains a remarkable dish due to the simple yet effective combination of flavors.

Preparation techniques:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by finely chopping the onion. This step is essential for achieving a smooth and flavorful sauce. Also, wash the sage leaves thoroughly and dry them.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large skillet, add the 4 tablespoons of butter and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes golden and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This stage will add depth to the flavor.

3. Deglazing the skillet: Add half a cup of white wine to the skillet and let it simmer for a few minutes until the alcohol evaporates. This step will enhance the sauce's aroma.

4. Adding the broth and sage: Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet, add 3-4 fresh sage leaves, and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Preparing the chicken: Meanwhile, cut the chicken breasts in half, then each half into 3 long strips. This way, from one breast, you will get 6 bundles. Gently pound the strips with a meat mallet or the bottom of a skillet to even out their thickness, then sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides.

6. Rolling the involtini: Roll each chicken strip to form a bundle and secure them with a toothpick. This step will help them maintain their shape during cooking.

7. Cooking the involtini: Place the chicken bundles in the skillet with the prepared sauce. Make sure to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid and let them simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the sauce thickens.

8. Serving: Once the involtini are ready, remove them from the skillet and place them on a plate. You can strain the sauce if you prefer a smoother texture, but I personally recommend leaving it as is for a rustic look. Finally, you can add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a delicious contrast and garnish with a few fresh sage leaves.

Useful tips:
- Vegetable broth: If you have time, make the broth at home for a richer flavor. You can use vegetables like carrots, celery, and parsley to create a flavorful base.
- White wine: Choose a good quality dry white wine, as it will influence the final taste of the sauce.
- Vegetarian version: You can use tofu or large mushrooms to create a vegetarian version of this recipe. Be sure to marinate them well for an intense flavor.
- Side dishes: This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh salad, adding a contrast of textures and flavors.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other herbs instead of sage?
Yes, you can experiment with rosemary or thyme, but sage remains a classic choice due to its distinct flavor.

- How do I know if the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 75°C. Additionally, the meat should be juicy, without any pink hue inside.

- How long can I keep the leftover involtini?
If you have leftovers, you can store the involtini in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven to restore their juiciness.

In conclusion, chicken involtini with sage is not just a simple recipe but also a culinary experience that beautifully combines natural flavors. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy every bite. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 1-2 chicken breasts (depending on how many people will be at the table) 1 sprig of sage 1 onion 2 cups vegetable soup 1/2 cup white wine 4 tablespoons butter 1 onion salt, pepper optional 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

 Tags:  involtini chicken breast sage