Baked Chicken and Bacon Rolls
Introduction
Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than these delightful Baked Chicken and Bacon Rolls. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with crispy bacon, creating a mouthwatering dish that is sure to please everyone’s taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, these rolls are the perfect choice.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butterfly each chicken breast by slicing it horizontally, but not all the way through, so you can open it like a book. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This will ensure they cook evenly and are tender.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Place 2 slices of bacon on top of each chicken breast, slightly overlapping. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley over the bacon slices. Carefully roll up each chicken breast, ensuring the filling stays inside. Secure the rolls with toothpicks.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken rolls to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the bacon is crispy and browned. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the toothpicks from the chicken rolls before serving. Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping and your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with the filling of these rolls. You can substitute the mozzarella cheese with cheddar or Swiss cheese. Add a layer of fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. You can also try using different herbs and spices to suit your taste. Get creative and make it your own!
Tips
- Make sure the bacon is cooked and crispy before placing the chicken rolls in the oven.
- Remove the toothpicks carefully to avoid any accidents while serving.
- For a healthier version, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
- If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the chicken rolls to a baking dish before placing them in the oven.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preferences. Add more or less garlic, oregano, or any other spices you like.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken and Bacon Rolls are a flavorful and satisfying dish that will surely become a family favorite. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese creates a delightful taste experience. With a simple preparation process and a delicious outcome, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
FAQs
1. Can I prepare these rolls in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the chicken rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to cook. Just make sure to remove them from the refrigerator and allow them to come to room temperature before baking.
2. Can I freeze the baked chicken rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven until heated through.
3. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe. However, the cooking time may be slightly longer. Make sure to check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. What can I serve with these rolls?
Baked Chicken and Bacon Rolls go well with a variety of side dishes. Some popular options include roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
5. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and Parmesan cheese work well in this recipe, you can substitute them with your favorite cheese. Try experimenting with different flavors, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or even blue cheese.
