Ingredients and Weight:
- Chicken Breasts - 4 (about 1.5-2 pounds total)
- Pesto Sauce - 1 cup
- Cream Cheese - 8 oz
- Mozzarella Cheese - 8 oz, shredded
- Italian Breadcrumbs - 1/2 cup
- Salt and Pepper - to taste
- Parsley, for Garnish (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
- Total: 75 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
- Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat tenderizer or rolling pin.
- In a bowl, mix the pesto sauce and cream cheese together until well combined.
- Spread the pesto-cream cheese mixture onto each chicken breast, leaving a border around the edges.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with Italian breadcrumbs.
- Roll up the chicken breasts, secure with toothpicks or kitchen string, and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the chicken rolls on a baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutritional Information:
(Per serving - based on estimated values)
- Calories: Approximately 350 calories per roll (depending on ingredients used)
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Note: Nutritional information may vary based on actual ingredients used and preparation method.
Dish Characteristics:
- Combination of classic pesto flavor with creamy cheese and chicken is a favorite among American palates.
- The dish offers a rich and savory experience with a touch of Italian influence.
- Chicken rolls are tender and juicy, making them a perfect main course or appetizer.
User Comments:
- "Love the combination of pesto and cream cheese in these chicken rolls!" - John Doe, New York, USA
- "These were so delicious! My family loved them." - Jane Smith, California, USA
- "Great dish for a special occasion or weekend dinner." - Michael Johnson, Texas, USA
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Ensure that the chicken is cooked through before serving to ensure food safety.
- Adjust seasoning according to preference, especially salt as it varies from brand to brand of pesto sauce and breadcrumbs.
- For best results, use fresh ingredients like pesto sauce and cream cheese that are not expired or past their best-before date.