Chicken Roulade Goat Cheese: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Chicken Roulade with Goat Cheese: Prepare to elevate your weeknight dinner game with this surprisingly simple yet incredibly elegant dish! Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts, swirled around a creamy, tangy goat cheese filling, baked to golden perfection. It’s a culinary experience that will impress your family and friends without requiring hours in the kitchen.

While the exact origins of chicken roulade are debated, the technique of rolling meat around a flavorful filling has been a staple in European cuisine for centuries. From classic French preparations to rustic Italian variations, the concept remains the same: transforming humble ingredients into a sophisticated and satisfying meal. This particular version, featuring the delightful tang of goat cheese, adds a modern twist to a timeless technique.

What makes chicken roulade with goat cheese so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The savory chicken provides a blank canvas for the creamy, slightly acidic goat cheese, creating a harmonious blend that dances on your palate. The roulade format also ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, unlike a plain chicken breast. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare! With just a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. I think you’ll find this recipe quickly becomes a family favorite!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish
• Optional: Toothpicks or kitchen twine

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, we need to prepare the chicken breasts. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a resealable plastic bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This will ensure even cooking and make them easier to roll. Be careful not to pound them too thin, or they might tear.
2. Season each flattened chicken breast generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s crucial for flavor!

Making the Goat Cheese Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped fresh basil, and minced garlic. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, add it to the mixture now. The Parmesan will add a nice salty and nutty flavor to the filling.
2. Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper, depending on your preference.

Assembling the Chicken Roulades:

1. Now comes the fun part: assembling the roulades! Spread an even layer of the goat cheese mixture over each flattened chicken breast, leaving about 1/2 inch border around the edges. This will prevent the filling from oozing out during cooking.
2. Carefully roll up each chicken breast tightly, starting from one end. Try to keep the roll as compact as possible.
3. Secure each roulade with toothpicks or kitchen twine. If using toothpicks, insert them at an angle to hold the seam together. If using kitchen twine, tie it tightly around the roulade at several points. This will help the roulades maintain their shape during cooking.

Cooking the Chicken Roulades:

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the roulades without overcrowding.
2. Carefully place the chicken roulades in the hot skillet, seam-side down first. Sear them on all sides until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Searing the chicken will create a beautiful crust and lock in the juices.
3. Remove the seared chicken roulades from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the butter. Let the butter melt and swirl it around the pan.
5. Pour in the dry white wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These browned bits, called fond, are packed with flavor and will add depth to the sauce. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two to reduce slightly.
6. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
7. Return the chicken roulades to the skillet, nestling them in the sauce.
8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for accuracy.
9. Remove the chicken roulades from the skillet and set them aside to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
10. While the chicken is resting, increase the heat to medium-high and let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes, until it has thickened slightly. You can add a pat of butter at the end for extra richness, if desired.
11. Remove the toothpicks or kitchen twine from the chicken roulades before slicing.

Serving the Chicken Roulades:

1. Slice the chicken roulades into 1/2-inch thick slices. Arrange the slices on a serving platter.
2. Spoon the sauce over the chicken roulades.
3. Garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs, if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy! These chicken roulades are delicious served with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad.

Tips and Variations:

• Different Cheese: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, you can substitute it with cream cheese, ricotta cheese, or even a combination of cheeses.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the filling, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables before adding them to the filling to remove excess moisture.
• Spice it Up: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the chicken roulades ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
• Baking Option: If you prefer to bake the chicken roulades, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sear the roulades as directed, then transfer them to a baking dish. Pour the sauce over the roulades and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with this dish.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Roulade with Goat Cheese!

Conclusion:

Well, there you have it! I truly believe this Chicken Roulade with Goat Cheese is a recipe you absolutely *must* try. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of tender chicken, creamy goat cheese, and the bright, herbaceous filling creates a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s elegant enough for a special occasion, yet simple enough to whip up on a weekend when you want something a little more exciting than your average weeknight dinner.

Think about it: the slight tang of the goat cheese perfectly complements the savory chicken, while the herbs add a fresh, vibrant note. It’s a dish that looks impressive but is surprisingly straightforward to prepare. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to elevate your chicken game beyond the usual baked or fried routine.

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to get creative with the filling. Not a fan of spinach? Try using kale or Swiss chard instead. Want to add a little sweetness? Incorporate some sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers. You could even add some chopped walnuts or pecans for a bit of crunch. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions:

I personally love serving this Chicken Roulade with Goat Cheese with a side of roasted asparagus and a simple lemon butter sauce. The asparagus provides a lovely earthy counterpoint to the richness of the roulade, and the lemon butter sauce adds a bright, zesty finish. Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta would also be fantastic accompaniments. For a lighter option, try serving it with a fresh salad and a vinaigrette dressing.

And don’t forget the wine! A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Noir would pair beautifully with this dish.

Variations to Explore:

* Mediterranean Twist: Add Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and oregano to the filling for a Mediterranean-inspired roulade.
* Spicy Kick: Incorporate some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes into the filling for a little heat.
* Mushroom Lovers: Sauté some mushrooms with garlic and herbs and add them to the filling for an earthy, umami-rich flavor.
* Different Cheese: While goat cheese is the star here, you could experiment with other cheeses like ricotta, mozzarella, or even a smoked Gouda.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and make it your own. I truly believe that cooking should be fun and experimental, so don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it.

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Please share your photos and comments on my blog or social media. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious Chicken Roulade with Goat Cheese! I am sure you will love it as much as I do.