Chicken Involtini with Spinach, Speck, and Asiago: A Flavorful Italian Delight

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If you’re in the mood for a dish that combines comfort and sophistication, Chicken Involtini with Spinach, Speck, and Asiago is the perfect recipe to try. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or hosting a special gathering, this dish brings rich, vibrant flavors that will surely impress.

With tender chicken breasts rolled around a flavorful stuffing of fresh spinach, smoky speck, and creamy Asiago cheese, Chicken Involtini offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of “involtini,” it refers to thin slices of meat that are rolled around a filling, making it both a versatile and elegant dish that can be adapted to various tastes.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to make the best Chicken Involtini with Spinach, Speck, and Asiago, so you can recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen.

What Are Chicken Involtini? A Perfect Italian Dish

Involtini is an Italian word that means “little rolls” and is commonly used to describe a variety of rolled meat dishes. These rolls can be filled with anything from cheese and vegetables to cured meats and herbs, creating endless possibilities for flavor combinations. The concept of involtini has long been a staple in Italian cuisine, dating back to ancient times. The dish is often associated with special occasions or family meals, due to its impressive appearance and rich flavors. Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

In this version, chicken breasts are the star. They’re tender, easy to cook, and provide the perfect base for a flavorful filling. The combination of spinach, speck, and Asiago cheese gives this dish a distinctive taste that brings a touch of Italy straight to your dinner table. While traditionally made with veal or beef, chicken provides a lighter, more accessible option for this iconic recipe.

Ingredients for Chicken Involtini with Spinach, Speck, and Asiago

Before you get started, let’s gather everything you need for this savory dish. The ingredients are simple yet full of rich flavors that come together beautifully when combined.

Table of Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Thinly sliced chicken breasts	1 kg
Fresh breadcrumbs	150 g
Parmigiano Reggiano (freshly grated)	50 g
Fresh spinach	200 g
Thinly sliced speck	120 g
Asiago cheese (cut into matchsticks)	120 g
Salt and freshly ground black pepper	To taste
Extra virgin olive oil	For drizzling and coating

Key Ingredients Highlights

• Parmigiano Reggiano: This high-quality cheese is a must-have for the breadcrumb mixture. Its sharp, nutty flavor adds depth and enhances the taste of the entire dish.
• Speck: A type of Italian cured ham, speck is smoky and slightly sweet. It pairs perfectly with the mild flavor of chicken, adding a savory richness.
• Asiago: Asiago cheese is creamy and slightly tangy, melting wonderfully inside the chicken rolls. It brings a perfect balance to the rich flavors of the speck and spinach.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach provides a vibrant green layer of flavor with a hint of bitterness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the cheeses and the speck.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Chicken Involtini

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the preparation process. The steps are straightforward, but the results are truly impressive.

1. Preheat Oven and Prep the Pan

First, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). This temperature ensures that the chicken cooks evenly while the breadcrumb coating crisps up perfectly.

Next, line a 35×25 cm baking dish with parchment paper to make cleanup easier and to prevent the chicken from sticking. Drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil in the dish—this will help the chicken roll turn golden brown and add a touch of flavor during baking.

2. Make the Breadcrumb Mixture

In a shallow plate or large bowl, combine the fresh breadcrumbs and Parmigiano Reggiano. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients well, ensuring that the breadcrumbs are evenly coated with the cheese and seasoning. This mixture will form a crunchy outer layer for the chicken rolls, adding texture and flavor.

3. Cook the Spinach

Rinse the fresh spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Then, pat it dry with a kitchen towel to prevent excess moisture.

Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the spinach and stir frequently as it wilts, which will take about 4-5 minutes. Once the spinach is wilted, transfer it to a colander to drain off any excess liquid. Press the spinach gently to release as much moisture as possible, then set it aside to cool slightly.

4. Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Take each thinly sliced chicken breast and lightly drizzle it with olive oil. This helps the breadcrumb mixture stick better and prevents the chicken from drying out.

Now, press each chicken breast into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring that both sides are coated evenly. The breadcrumbs will form a flavorful crust around the chicken when baked, adding texture and taste.

5. Assemble the Chicken Involtini Rolls

It’s time to assemble your chicken rolls! Place a chicken breast in front of you, with the shorter side facing you.

• Lay a slice of speck on top of the chicken breast. This cured ham will infuse the chicken with a smoky flavor as it cooks.
• Add about 2 tablespoons of cooked spinach in a horizontal line across the chicken. This will add a touch of freshness and color.
• Finally, add a few matchsticks of Asiago cheese on top of the spinach. The cheese will melt inside the roll, creating a creamy center.

Carefully roll the chicken up from the side closest to you, keeping the filling inside as you go. Once rolled, place the chicken seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken breasts.

6. Top and Bake the Rolls

Once all the chicken rolls are assembled, sprinkle any leftover breadcrumb mixture over the top. Drizzle a little more olive oil over the rolls for extra crispness and flavor.

Bake the rolls in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the outside is golden brown. The cheese should be melted, and the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).

7. Rest and Serve

Once your Chicken Involtini are out of the oven, allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices settle inside the chicken, keeping it moist and flavorful.

Slice the chicken rolls into bite-sized pieces and serve. You can pair them with a light salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite side dish for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Involtini

To ensure that your Chicken Involtini with Spinach, Speck, and Asiago turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach, high-quality Parmigiano Reggiano, and speck will make a noticeable difference in the final taste of your dish.
• Customize the filling: Don’t hesitate to add other ingredients to the filling, such as roasted garlic, herbs, or sun-dried tomatoes. The beauty of involtini is that it can be easily adapted to suit your preferences.
• Prevent dry chicken: To avoid overcooking and dry chicken, keep a close eye on your rolls while they’re baking. If you have a meat thermometer, you can check that the chicken reaches 75°C (165°F) internally.
• Prep ahead: You can prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Involtini Recipe

There are many reasons why Chicken Involtini with Spinach, Speck, and Asiago should become a go-to recipe in your kitchen:

• Flavor-packed: The combination of smoky speck, creamy Asiago, and earthy spinach creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that’s balanced and satisfying.
• Elegant yet easy: Despite its sophisticated taste, this dish is surprisingly simple to prepare. It’s a great option for family dinners, special occasions, or when you want to treat yourself to something delicious.
• Healthy and balanced: With lean chicken breasts, fresh spinach, and minimal added fats, this dish is not only delicious but also relatively healthy compared to many other comfort foods.

FAQ About Chicken Involtini with Spinach, Speck, and Asiago

Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Asiago is a great choice for this recipe, you can easily swap it out for other cheeses such as mozzarella, provolone, or fontina. Each will add its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.

Can I make Chicken Involtini ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the chicken rolls up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil to keep them fresh.

What should I serve with Chicken Involtini?

This dish pairs beautifully with a range of side dishes. Consider serving it with roasted potatoes, a light salad, or pasta for a complete meal. For a more indulgent side, mashed potatoes or garlic bread would complement the flavors perfectly.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

To be sure that the chicken is fully cooked, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read 75°C (165°F). If you don’t have a thermometer, you can also slice into one of the rolls to make sure the chicken is no longer pink inside.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious Chicken Involtini with Spinach, Speck, and Asiago

Now that you have the perfect recipe and all the tips you need, it’s time to give Chicken Involtini with Spinach, Speck, and Asiago a try. This dish is sure to become a favorite in your household, with its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight meal, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and start rolling up these flavor-packed chicken involtini. We’d love to hear how your version turns out! Share your thoughts and any variations you’ve made in the comments below. Happy cooking!

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