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Chicken roulade is a gourmet dish that looks and tastes impressive, yet it’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking to elevate a family meal, this recipe offers tender, juicy chicken wrapped around flavorful fillings, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness. Here’s your ultimate guide to mastering the art of making chicken roulade.

What is Chicken Roulade?

Chicken roulade, or roulade of chicken, refers to a dish where chicken is flattened, filled with various ingredients, rolled up, and cooked to perfection. Originating from French cuisine, the word “roulade” means “to roll,” emphasizing the dish’s signature preparation method. Whether stuffed with vegetables, cheese, or cured meats, chicken roulade is versatile and sure to impress.

How to Make Chicken Roulade

Ingredients

To make the perfect chicken roulade recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The base of the roulade, tender and perfect for rolling.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle, aromatic kick to the seasoning.
1 tsp onion powder: Provides a mild, savory undertone.
½ tsp smoked paprika: Infuses a hint of smoky flavor and vibrant color.

For the Filling:

1 cup sautéed spinach: Adds a nutritious, earthy element to the filling.
½ cup cream cheese (softened): Creates a creamy, rich texture.
1 cup grated mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, binding the filling together.
½ cup sautéed mushrooms (finely chopped): Adds umami depth and a meaty texture.
2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped): Provides a tangy, concentrated flavor burst.
¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped): Lends a fresh, herbal note to balance the richness.
4 slices of bacon (optional but recommended): Adds a smoky, crispy layer of indulgence.

For the Outer Coating:

2 cups breadcrumbs: Creates a crisp, golden crust when baked or fried.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty finish to the coating.
2 large eggs (beaten): Helps the coating stick to the chicken roulade.
½ cup all-purpose flour: Provides the base layer for the coating to adhere.

For the Sauce (Optional):

1 cup chicken stock: Forms the flavorful base of the sauce.
½ cup heavy cream: Adds richness and smoothness to the sauce.
2 tbsp unsalted butter: Enhances the sauce’s creamy consistency.
1 clove garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with a robust, aromatic flavor.
1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy, slightly sharp complexity to the sauce.

Instructions to Make Chicken Roulade Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place a chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound it with a meat mallet until it is about ¼-inch thick. Repeat for all chicken breasts.
Season the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika on both sides.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, combine sautéed spinach, cream cheese, mozzarella, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and parsley. Mix until well incorporated.
If using bacon, cook the slices until slightly crispy and set them aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Roulade

Lay the flattened chicken breast on a clean surface.
Spread 2–3 tablespoons of the filling evenly over the chicken, leaving a small border around the edges.
If using bacon, place a slice on top of the filling.
Carefully roll the chicken tightly, starting from one end. Secure the seam with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
Dredge each roulade in flour, dip it in the egg, and coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully covered.

Step 5: Cook the Roulade

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roulades until golden brown on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Transfer the seared roulades to a baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Make the Sauce (Optional)

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant.
Add chicken stock, heavy cream, and Dijon mustard. Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the toothpicks or twine from the roulades. Slice them into medallions.
Drizzle the sauce over the roulade slices and serve immediately.

Tips to make perfect chicken roulade

Use a sharp knife to slice the roulades for a clean, restaurant-quality presentation.
Secure tightly: Ensure the roulade is rolled tightly and secured with toothpicks or twine to prevent the filling from leaking out.
Chill before coating: Place the roulades in the fridge for 15 minutes before breading to help them hold their shape better.
Rest before slicing: Let the roulades rest for 5 minutes after baking to retain their juices.
If you’re new to working with chicken breasts, check out this guide on How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets for tips on preparing juicy, flavorful chicken every time.

What to Serve With Chicken Roulade

Pairing the perfect side dishes, desserts, and drinks with your chicken roulade can elevate your meal into a gourmet experience. Here are some fantastic options:

Side Dishes:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery, and full of garlic flavor, these potatoes are the ultimate comfort food to pair with the rich and savory roulade.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of carrots, zucchini, and asparagus adds vibrant color and a healthy balance to your plate.
Buttered Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned and aromatic, this fluffy rice dish complements the roulade’s flavorful filling.
Parmesan Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe: This creamy and indulgent pasta is the perfect side for chicken roulade, providing an extra layer of decadence to your meal.
Spaghetti with Alfredo Sauce: A classic, comforting dish with a rich, velvety sauce that harmonizes beautifully with the roulade’s flavors.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: This Italian dessert, with its creamy layers and coffee-soaked ladyfingers, is light enough to balance the savory roulade.
Lemon Tart: Its tangy and refreshing flavor makes for an ideal palate cleanser after a rich meal.
Heart Shaped Cake Recipe: A delightful and visually appealing dessert option, perfect for special occasions or romantic dinners.

Drinks:

White Wine: Pair your roulade with a crisp Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to bring out the dish’s savory and creamy notes.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: A refreshing, non-alcoholic choice that keeps the meal light and crisp.
Honey Sriracha Sauce Recipe: While not a drink, this sauce can be offered as an additional dipping option for your roulade, adding a spicy-sweet twist for adventurous diners.

Variations of Chicken Roulade Recipe

The beauty of chicken roulade lies in its versatility. You can customize the filling, preparation, and even cooking method to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some creative and delicious variations of chicken roulade to inspire your culinary adventures:

1. Chicken Roulade with Mushrooms

Enhance the earthy flavors by using a blend of wild mushrooms like shiitake, cremini, or porcini.
Sauté the mushrooms with garlic, thyme, and a splash of white wine before adding them to the filling.
For extra richness, mix the mushrooms with Gruyère cheese or ricotta.

2. Chicken Bacon Roulades

Wrap the chicken roulade in crispy bacon strips before cooking for added smokiness and a crunchy texture.
Incorporate crumbled cooked bacon into the filling along with cream cheese, cheddar, and chives.
This variation works wonderfully when baked or pan-seared for a caramelized exterior.

3. Mediterranean Chicken Roulade

Fill the roulade with sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, spinach, and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
Season the chicken with oregano, basil, and a touch of lemon zest to elevate the flavors.
Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or a Greek salad for a complete meal.

4. Spinach and Ricotta Roulade

Create a lighter, vegetarian-inspired filling with ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, garlic, and a hint of nutmeg.
Add a sprinkle of pine nuts or slivered almonds for texture.
This variation pairs beautifully with a tangy marinara sauce or a drizzle of olive oil and Parmesan.

5. Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Roulade

For those who love a spicy kick, fill the roulade with a blend of cream cheese, shredded pepper jack cheese, and diced jalapeños.
Add cooked chorizo or sausage to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
Serve with a side of salsa or a creamy avocado dip for a Tex-Mex flair.

6. Caprese Chicken Roulade

Incorporate classic Caprese ingredients like fresh mozzarella, sliced tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves into the filling.
Drizzle the roulade with balsamic glaze before serving to tie the flavors together.
This variation is light yet flavorful, perfect for a summer dinner.

7. Pesto-Stuffed Chicken Roulade

Use a generous spread of basil pesto as the base for the filling, then add shredded Parmesan and chopped roasted red peppers.
This variation is aromatic and pairs wonderfully with buttery mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus.

8. Gluten-Free Chicken Roulade

Swap out the breadcrumbs in the coating for gluten-free alternatives like crushed rice crackers, almond flour, or gluten-free panko.
Ensure all other ingredients, such as sauces or stock, are certified gluten-free.
Serve with a gluten-free pasta or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.

9. Sweet and Savory Chicken Roulade

Combine goat cheese, dried cranberries, and toasted walnuts for a unique sweet-and-savory filling.
Add a touch of honey or maple syrup for a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables.

10. Vegetarian-Inspired Chicken Roulade

Substitute chicken with thin slices of eggplant or zucchini, rolling them with the filling of your choice.
Great options for fillings include ricotta and spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers.
This is a lighter, veggie-forward alternative for those avoiding meat.

These variations showcase how chicken roulade can be transformed into a dish that suits a variety of tastes, occasions, and dietary preferences. Experiment with your favorite ingredients to create a signature version of this elegant recipe!

FAQs

Can I prepare chicken roulade ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the roulades and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Can I freeze chicken roulade?

Absolutely. Freeze uncooked roulades on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking.

How do I know when the roulade is done?

Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should read 165°F (74°C).

Can I cook chicken roulade on the stovetop instead of baking it?

Yes, you can cook chicken roulade on the stovetop. After searing the roulades in a skillet to get a golden brown crust, cover the pan and lower the heat to cook the roulades through. It will take about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of the roulades. Be sure to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).

What other fillings can I use for chicken roulade?

The possibilities are endless when it comes to fillings! You can try using ingredients like ricotta cheese, pesto, roasted red peppers, prosciutto, or even caramelized onions. Just make sure your fillings are well-cooked before adding them to the chicken to avoid excess moisture.

How do I keep the chicken roulade from falling apart while cooking?

To keep your chicken roulade intact, make sure to tightly roll the chicken and secure it with toothpicks or kitchen twine. Additionally, chilling the roulades for 15-20 minutes in the fridge before cooking can help them maintain their shape. Cooking them on medium heat and not overcrowding the pan also helps prevent them from falling apart.

Substitutes

For Bacon: Use turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a lighter version.
For Cream Cheese: Try ricotta or mascarpone for a different texture.
For Spinach: Kale or Swiss chard works just as well.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: 420
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 680mg

Conclusion

In conclusion, how to make chicken roulade is a fantastic way to elevate your cooking and impress your guests with a flavorful, visually stunning dish. This chicken roulade recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, from savory mushrooms and spinach to rich cheeses and crispy bacon. Whether you’re preparing a special meal for a family dinner or hosting a party, this dish delivers both elegance and comfort in every bite.

With its step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and creative variations, you now have all the tools to create a perfect chicken roulade every time. Remember to serve it with delicious sides, a refreshing drink, and a sweet dessert to complete the meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings and sauces to make this recipe your own.

So, next time you’re wondering what to cook for an impressive yet approachable dinner, reach for this chicken roulade recipe—a dish that’s sure to become a new favorite in your culinary repertoire.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to explore other delicious chicken dishes on our blog, like How to Make Oven Baked Chicken Cutlets or Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe, for more culinary inspiration.

Chicken Roulade Recipe | Easy & Delicious

Serves: 4 Prep Time: 20 Minutes Cooking Time: 30 Minutes 30 Minutes

Nutrition facts: 420 calories 25 Grams fat

Rating: 5.0/5

( 1 voted )