Description
Tender and flavorful Chicken Braciole made quickly with thinly sliced chicken breasts rolled with a savory Parmesan and spinach filling, seared to perfection, and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This classic Italian dish is perfect for a fast, satisfying dinner that pairs beautifully with pasta, vegetables, or rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Filling
- 4 thinly sliced chicken breasts (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- Red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Notes
- Pound chicken evenly to ensure quick cooking without drying out.
- Secure rolls tightly with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent filling from leaking.
- Sear chicken rolls in batches to avoid overcrowding and maintain a crispy crust.
- Use fresh parsley and basil for vibrant flavor.
- Let braciole rest a few minutes after cooking to retain juices when slicing.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken roll with sauce
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: Chicken Braciole, Italian chicken recipe, stuffed chicken breast, quick dinner, tomato sauce chicken