Chicken Braciole

Discover how to make tender, flavorful Chicken Braciole quickly with this easy recipe perfect for a fast, delicious dinner anytime. This classic Italian dish features thinly sliced chicken breasts rolled with a savory filling, seared to perfection, and simmered in rich tomato sauce. It’s a wonderful way to bring a restaurant-quality meal to your table without hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: Uses simple steps that get dinner ready in under 30 minutes.
• Flavor-packed: Combines fresh herbs, Parmesan, and savory fillings for deep, satisfying tastes.
• Versatile meal: Easily pairs with pasta, vegetables, or rice for any occasion.
• Perfect texture: Tender chicken wrapped around a moist, flavorful stuffing.
• Family favorite: Appeals to all ages, making it a hit at the dinner table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These carefully chosen ingredients are simple but essential, each adding texture, color, or flavor that comes together beautifully in your Chicken Braciole.

• Chicken breasts: Thinly sliced for easy rolling and quick cooking.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor to the filling.
• Fresh spinach: Contributes vibrant color and a mild, earthy taste.
• Garlic cloves: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
• Italian breadcrumbs: Provide crisp texture and help bind the stuffing.
• Fresh herbs (parsley, basil): Bring fragrant freshness to every bite.
• Olive oil: For searing the braciole to golden perfection.
• Canned crushed tomatoes: Form the base of the savory sauce.
• Salt and pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): For a subtle spicy kick.

Variations for Chicken Braciole

Feel free to customize this Chicken Braciole recipe to fit your dietary preferences, available ingredients, or taste cravings. It’s incredibly adaptable and simple to tailor.

• Cheese swap: Try mozzarella or provolone instead of Parmesan for a gooey filling.
• Meat choice: Use thin pork loin slices as an alternative to chicken for a richer dish.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute chicken with thick eggplant slices for a meat-free version.
• Spice level: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for more heat.
• Stuffing mix: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or toasted pine nuts for an added crunch and flavor.

How to Make Chicken Braciole

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch, which helps the chicken cook evenly and makes rolling easier.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a bowl, combine chopped fresh spinach, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian breadcrumbs, and finely chopped herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing everything together until evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Braciole

Lay each pounded chicken breast flat and spread an even layer of the filling over it. Roll up the chicken tightly starting from one edge, securing the roll with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the shape during cooking.

Step 4: Sear the Rolls

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken rolls seam side down and sear until browned on all sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. This locks in juices and adds a beautiful crust.

Step 5: Simmer in Tomato Sauce

Pour crushed tomatoes into the skillet with the seared chicken braciole. Add salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Braciole

• Uniform thickness: Pound chicken evenly to ensure quick cooking without drying out.
• Secure tightly: Use kitchen twine or toothpicks firmly to prevent filling from leaking.
• Don’t overcrowd: Sear chicken rolls in batches to maintain a perfect crust without steaming.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and basil elevate the brightness of the dish.
• Rest before slicing: Let braciole rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain juices when cut.

How to Serve Chicken Braciole

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and a little extra grated Parmesan over the top for a fresh look and added flavor that complements the tomato sauce beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve your Chicken Braciole with al dente pasta tossed in garlic and olive oil, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad to balance the hearty main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the rolled chicken into medallions to showcase the colorful filling and arrange them over a bed of roasted vegetables or polenta for an elegant presentation sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Chicken Braciole and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

Wrap individual chicken braciole rolls tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. They keep well for up to 2 months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Warm leftovers gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave with a drizzle of water to keep them moist and tender.

FAQs

What cut of chicken is best for Chicken Braciole?

Thinly sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best because they’re easy to pound thin and roll without falling apart.

Can I make Chicken Braciole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and even cook it ahead; simply refrigerate or freeze the dish and reheat gently when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of Italian breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can substitute, though Italian seasoned breadcrumbs add more flavor to the stuffing.

Is Chicken Braciole gluten-free friendly?

By using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour in the filling, this recipe can easily be adapted to be gluten-free.

How do I prevent the filling from spilling out?

Rolling tightly and securing with toothpicks or twine prevents leakage; also, avoid overfilling to keep everything neat.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Braciole recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a classic Italian favorite that’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special meal with friends, you’ll love how easily it comes together and how deeply delicious every bite is. Give it a try and make your mealtime something to look forward to!

Related Posts

• Marry Me Chicken
• Cheesy Hamburger Potato Casserole
• Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole

Print