Imagine coming home after a busy day, craving a meal that feels both comforting and impressive — something packed with flavor yet surprisingly simple to make. That’s exactly what you get with Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken Rolls. This dish delivers a mouthwatering blend of juicy chicken, tangy sundried tomatoes, fresh basil pesto, and gooey cheese, all rolled up into a savory, elegant dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself, these chicken rolls offer a perfect balance of freshness, richness, and ease.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything you need to create this stunning meal, from the best ingredients to step-by-step cooking instructions, plus helpful tips and delicious variations. Ready to impress your taste buds and your guests? Let’s dive in.
What Makes Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken Rolls So Irresistible?
Before you start cooking, it helps to understand why this recipe stands out. Here’s what makes these chicken rolls your next go-to dinner: Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas
- Flavor Explosion: The intense tang of sundried tomatoes paired with the herbal brightness of basil pesto creates a vibrant contrast. Combined with creamy cheeses and tender chicken, every bite is a layered experience of textures and tastes.
- Nutritional Benefits: Chicken breasts provide a lean source of protein, helping you feel full and energized. Basil brings antioxidants, while sundried tomatoes add vitamins and a rich umami taste, making this dish wholesome and satisfying.
- Ease and Elegance: This isn’t just a simple chicken dinner; it’s an easy yet sophisticated dish that looks like it took hours to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
When you make these rolls, you’re creating more than food — you’re crafting a memorable meal that feels homemade, fresh, and nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken Rolls
To make this recipe work perfectly, having the right ingredients is crucial. Let’s break them down into two categories: the chicken rolls themselves and the homemade basil pesto.
Main Ingredients for Chicken Rolls
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 3, horizontally cut and pounded into cutlets |
| Sundried tomatoes | 1/2 cup, finely chopped |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup, freshly grated |
Ingredients for Fresh Basil Pesto
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh basil leaves | 2 cups, loosely packed |
| Garlic cloves | 3 |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
| Olive oil | 1/3 cup |
| Pine nuts | 1/4 cup |
How to Prepare Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken Rolls: Step-by-Step
You might feel a bit intimidated by the layers and rolling, but don’t worry — the process is straightforward. Follow these steps, and you’ll be rewarded with juicy, flavorful chicken rolls that melt in your mouth.
1. Preparing the Chicken Cutlets and Seasoning
Start by slicing each chicken breast horizontally to create thin cutlets. Use a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan to pound the chicken evenly, about 1/4 inch thick. This not only tenderizes the meat but also helps with even cooking.
Next, season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. These simple spices create a savory foundation, enhancing the chicken’s natural flavor without overpowering the pesto and sundried tomatoes.
2. Making the Basil Pesto
While you can use store-bought pesto, fresh homemade pesto transforms this dish. In a blender or food processor, combine fresh basil leaves, garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese, pine nuts, and olive oil. Pulse until the mixture forms a smooth, vibrant green sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Assembling the Chicken Rolls
Lay each seasoned chicken cutlet flat. Spread about 1 tablespoon of pesto evenly across each piece. Sprinkle 1/2 tablespoon of finely chopped sundried tomatoes over the pesto. Carefully roll up the chicken, starting from the narrow edge, and secure each roll with a toothpick to keep everything intact during cooking.
4. Browning the Chicken Rolls
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken rolls, cooking and turning them until all sides are golden brown — about 6 to 8 minutes total. This step locks in flavor and creates a delicious crust.
5. Making the Creamy Pesto Sauce and Baking
In a separate bowl, mix the remaining pesto, heavy cream, and sundried tomatoes. Pour this creamy mixture over the browned chicken rolls in the skillet.
Finally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Tips for Perfect Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken Rolls
Mastering this recipe is easier when you keep these pointers in mind:
- Pound Evenly: Ensure chicken cutlets are uniform in thickness to avoid uneven cooking.
- Don’t Skip Browning: Searing the rolls before baking adds flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and high-quality cheeses make a noticeable difference.
- Prep Ahead: Make the pesto a day before to deepen flavors and save time.
- Monitor Oven Time: Overbaking can dry the chicken; use a thermometer for precision.
Delicious Variations to Try
Want to mix things up? Here are some ideas to customize your Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken Rolls:
- Cheese Swap: Try goat cheese or fontina for a different creaminess.
- Add Greens: Stuff the rolls with spinach or arugula for extra nutrients and color.
- Nut Alternatives: Substitute pine nuts with walnuts or almonds in your pesto.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free meal.
Nutritional Information & Serving Suggestions
These chicken rolls are not only tasty but also quite balanced. Each serving (based on 4 servings) is approximately:
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 45g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
To complement the dish, consider serving:
- A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic roasted vegetables
- A light pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs
- A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon
FAQ – Everything You Need to Know About Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken Rolls
Can I use store-bought pesto instead of making my own?
Yes, store-bought pesto is a convenient alternative, but fresh pesto enhances the overall taste dramatically. If you’re short on time, buy a high-quality jar or prepare pesto in advance.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken rolls. When it reaches 165°F (74°C), the chicken is safely cooked and juicy.
Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can assemble the rolls, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Bake fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.
What can I substitute for pine nuts in the pesto?
Walnuts and almonds work well as substitutes. They provide a similar texture and a slightly different, but delicious, flavor.
Conclusion: Ready to Create Your Own Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken Rolls?
You’ve now got the full scoop on how to make these irresistible Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken Rolls. With fresh ingredients, simple steps, and just a bit of patience, you can transform chicken breasts into a restaurant-worthy meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Why wait? Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start cooking. Don’t forget to share your results, variations, and tips — your kitchen creations could inspire others to try this fantastic recipe too!
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Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken Rolls: Your Ultimate Guide to a Flavorful, Easy Dinner
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
- Learn how to make delicious Sundried Tomato Pesto Chicken Rolls with a simple, flavorful recipe you’ll love
Ingredients
- 3 chicken breasts, horizontally cut and pounded into cutlets
- 1/2 cup sundried tomatoes, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- For the Pesto:
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves, loosely packed
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the chicken cutlets and season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Spread 1 tablespoon of the pesto mixture onto each chicken cutlet, add 1/2 tablespoon sundried tomatoes, roll up tightly, and secure with a toothpick.
- In an oven-safe dish, heat olive oil over medium-high heat, add chicken rolls, and brown on all sides (about 6-8 minutes).
- Mix remaining pesto with cream and sundried tomatoes, pour over the chicken rolls.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 550 kcal per serving
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