Chicken breast with ham and cheese

Chicken breast with ham and cheese – a delicious recipe for an appetizer that perfectly combines the flavor of juicy meat with the intense taste of cheese and ham. This recipe is ideal for a family dinner, but also for a festive meal. Whether you choose to serve it as a main dish or as an appetizer, it will surely be appreciated by everyone who tastes it.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 halves of chicken breast (approximately 500-600 g)
- 150 g sliced ham (approximately 6 slices)
- 4 slices of cheese (preferably one that melts well)
- Salt, pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or hot, according to preference)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup of water

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting each half of the chicken breast into two large, thin pieces. If the pieces of meat are thicker, you can lightly pound them with a meat mallet to achieve an even thickness. This step will help the meat cook evenly and remain juicy.

2. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the pieces of meat. These simple spices will enhance the flavor of the chicken and add aroma to the final dish.

3. Filling: On each piece of chicken breast, place 3 slices of ham and 2 slices of cheese. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed, and at the ends, fold the meat to prevent the cheese from leaking during baking.

4. Rolling: Carefully roll each piece of meat, making sure to seal the ends well. You can use toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the rolls intact, although it is not strictly necessary.

5. Preparing the baking dish: In a baking dish, pour 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and place the chicken rolls. Mix the paprika with a pinch of salt and oil and brush the rolls with this mix, which will give a nice color and delicious aroma.

6. Adding water: Add ½ cup of water mixed with a little salt and a pinch of seasoning to the dish. The water will help maintain the juiciness of the meat during baking.

7. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and help the meat cook well. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 180°C and let it bake for about 40 minutes. After this interval, remove the foil and let the rolls brown for another 10-15 minutes. You will notice that the cheese will start to melt and form a golden and appetizing crust.

8. Serving: Once the chicken breast with ham and cheese is ready, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute in the meat, keeping it juicy. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetable sides for a pleasant contrast.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can include herbs such as basil or oregano in the filling.
- Instead of ham, you can use bacon or even smoked chicken for a distinct note.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, you can use spicy cheese or add a hot pepper paste to the spice mix.

Nutritional information (per serving, estimated):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 35 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen chicken breast?
Yes, but make sure it is completely thawed before preparing it to ensure even cooking.

2. What other sides go well with this dish?
You can serve the chicken breast with mashed potatoes, a green salad, or steamed vegetables for a balanced lunch.

3. Is it possible to prepare the dish in advance?
Of course! You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and keep them in the fridge. When you are ready to cook them, follow the baking steps.

This chicken breast with ham and cheese recipe is a perfect choice for any occasion, bringing a tasty and impressive dish to the table. Whether you enjoy it with loved ones or serve it as an appetizer at a party, it will surely become a favorite for everyone. Don't forget to share your experiences and explore variations of this recipe, turning every meal into a special occasion. Enjoy your meal!