Fontina Rolled Chicken Recipe

Introduction

Fontina Rolled Chicken is a decadent and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken breasts, creamy Fontina cheese, and a variety of seasonings to create a meal that’s perfect for any special occasion or a weeknight dinner. The creamy cheese melts into the chicken, offering a rich, savory taste that will leave your guests or family members asking for seconds. The crispy exterior from pan-searing, combined with the juicy, cheese-filled center, makes this dish both a visual and culinary delight.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, Fontina Rolled Chicken is an easy-to-make dish that requires simple ingredients and minimal preparation time. It’s a versatile recipe, perfect for a holiday meal, a dinner party, or a cozy family dinner. This guide will walk you through every step of making this mouthwatering dish, offer tips to ensure success, and suggest delicious variations to explore.

Why You’ll Love Fontina Rolled Chicken

• Creamy, Flavorful Filling: The Fontina cheese adds a rich and creamy element to the chicken, which melts beautifully and infuses every bite with savory flavor. The combination of cheese and seasonings creates a filling that’s both indulgent and comforting.
• Tender, Juicy Chicken: The chicken breast is tenderized and stuffed with the cheese filling, keeping the meat juicy and flavorful as it cooks. The chicken is perfectly seasoned on the outside, ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
• Versatile Dish: Fontina Rolled Chicken can be paired with a wide range of sides, from roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes to a light salad or pasta. It’s also easily adaptable for various dietary preferences or ingredient substitutions.
• Simple Preparation: Despite its gourmet-like presentation, this dish is made with simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Impressive Appearance: The rolled chicken looks elegant when plated, making it an excellent choice for dinner parties or gatherings where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per serving, depending on the size of the chicken breasts and the ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 15-20g
• Carbohydrates: 5-7g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1-2g

Ingredients

For the Fontina Rolled Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup Fontina cheese, grated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for sautéing)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh, if preferred)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for breadcrumbs)
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

For the Pan Sauce (optional):

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Start by preparing the chicken breasts. If your chicken breasts are thick, use a sharp knife to carefully butterfly them. To do this, slice each chicken breast horizontally, but not all the way through, creating a “pocket” that can be stuffed. Alternatively, you can also use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about ½ inch. This helps ensure that they cook evenly and makes it easier to roll them later.

Once the chicken is prepared, season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. These seasonings will enhance the flavor of the chicken and complement the richness of the Fontina cheese.

2. Prepare the Cheese Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the grated Fontina cheese, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. The breadcrumbs help provide texture and a bit of crunch when baking, while the Parmesan adds an extra layer of flavor to the filling. Mix the ingredients well to combine.

3. Stuff the Chicken

Lay the seasoned chicken breasts flat on a clean surface, then spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese mixture into the center of each breast. Carefully fold the chicken over the filling, creating a “roll” with the cheese securely inside. If the filling is spilling out, use toothpicks to secure the ends of the chicken and keep everything intact during cooking. You can also tie the chicken with kitchen twine for a more secure roll.

4. Prepare for Searing

Before cooking, make sure everything is set up. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil and butter. The combination of olive oil and butter will help create a golden, crispy crust on the chicken while keeping it moist inside.

While the skillet heats up, dip each stuffed chicken roll into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat each roll completely. The breadcrumbs will form a crispy outer layer that adds texture to the dish.

5. Sear the Chicken Rolls

Once the pan is hot, carefully add the chicken rolls to the skillet. Cook them on all sides, turning occasionally with tongs, until the breading is golden and crispy, and the chicken is browned all over (about 5-7 minutes). You may need to do this in batches if your pan isn’t large enough to accommodate all the chicken at once.

6. Bake the Chicken Rolls

Once all the chicken rolls are seared, transfer them to a baking dish. If you prefer a crispy exterior, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly inside.

If you prefer a softer, more tender finish, you can bake them covered with foil for the first 15 minutes, then uncover for the last 10 minutes to allow the breadcrumbs to crisp up.

7. Prepare the Pan Sauce (Optional)

While the chicken is baking, you can make an optional pan sauce for extra flavor. After removing the chicken from the skillet, use the same pan to make a simple sauce. Add the chicken broth to the skillet, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a few minutes, then whisk in flour to thicken the sauce. Add butter, fresh thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Simmer the sauce until it reaches a slightly thickened consistency. Drizzle the pan sauce over the baked chicken rolls just before serving for an added touch of richness.

8. Serve the Fontina Rolled Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This ensures that the juices settle back into the meat and that the cheese doesn’t ooze out when cut. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and a burst of freshness. For added brightness, drizzle with a little fresh lemon juice if desired.

Tips for Perfect Fontina Rolled Chicken

• Butterfly or Pound the Chicken Evenly: To ensure even cooking, it’s crucial that the chicken breasts are of uniform thickness. If they’re too thick, they’ll take longer to cook, and if they’re uneven, some parts may dry out while others remain undercooked.
• Use Fresh Fontina Cheese: Freshly grated Fontina cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese, giving you that smooth, gooey texture that makes this dish so special. If you can’t find Fontina, Gruyère is a great alternative.
• Secure the Rolls: Make sure the chicken is securely rolled up, either with toothpicks or kitchen twine, to prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking.
• Don’t Skip the Searing Step: Searing the chicken on all sides before baking adds flavor and ensures the breadcrumbs become golden and crispy. It also helps lock in moisture.
• Optional Sauce: The pan sauce is an optional but excellent addition that enhances the dish’s flavor. You can even make it with white wine or add a splash of cream for a richer sauce.

Variations of Fontina Rolled Chicken

• Spinach and Fontina Rolled Chicken: Add a handful of cooked spinach to the Fontina filling for an extra layer of flavor and a pop of color.
• Mushroom Fontina Rolled Chicken: Sauté sliced mushrooms and incorporate them into the cheese mixture for an earthy, savory twist.
• Herbed Fontina Rolled Chicken: Experiment with fresh herbs such as rosemary, basil, or oregano in the filling for a fragrant, herbaceous version.
• Prosciutto-Wrapped Fontina Rolled Chicken: Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with a slice of prosciutto before searing and baking for an added salty, savory layer.

Storage and Shelf Life

Fontina Rolled Chicken is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored for later use. After the chicken has cooled, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken. Place the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen rolls to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Fontina Rolled Chicken

Fontina Rolled Chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich and savory flavor:

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or potatoes make a great side, as their natural sweetness balances the richness of the chicken.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic make an ideal match for the cheesy chicken.
• Green Salad: A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the chicken and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Risotto: A creamy risotto, especially one made with Parmesan, can complement the flavors of the Fontina cheese.

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Conclusion

Fontina Rolled Chicken is a luxurious and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, creamy Fontina cheese, and a delightful breadcrumb crust. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a family dinner, this recipe will elevate your meal with its rich flavor and impressive presentation. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be able to create a dish that’s both indulgent and approachable.