Ham and Cheese Roulade

Ingredients:

For the Roulade:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 slices of ham (such as deli ham or prosciutto)
• 4 slices of cheese (Swiss, cheddar, mozzarella, or any cheese of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine (to secure the roulades)

For the Breading (optional):

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for a crunchy exterior)
• 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Sauce (optional):

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley), chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

1. Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and is easier to roll.
2. Season the Chicken: Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme (if using).

Step 2: Assemble the Roulade

1. Layer the Ham and Cheese: Lay a slice of ham on each chicken breast. Then, place a slice of cheese on top of the ham.
2. Roll Up the Chicken: Carefully roll the chicken breast from one edge to the other, securing the ham and cheese inside. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the edges so the roulade doesn’t unroll during cooking.

Step 3: (Optional) Bread the Roulades

1. Prepare the Breading Station: Set up a breading station by placing flour in one dish, the beaten egg in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese in a third.
2. Bread the Roulades: Dredge each chicken roulade in the flour, then dip it in the beaten egg, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. This step gives the roulades a crispy, golden exterior, but you can skip it if you prefer a more straightforward version.

Step 4: Cook the Roulades

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Roulades: Place the roulades in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (about 165°F or 75°C internal temperature). If you’ve breaded the chicken, it will have a crispy, golden crust.
   • If the roulades are large or thick, you can also finish cooking them in the oven. Transfer the skillet to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 5: Make the Sauce (Optional)

1. Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, in a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth (or white wine), and Dijon mustard. Simmer over low heat for 3-5 minutes, whisking until the sauce thickens slightly.
2. Season the Sauce: Stir in the fresh herbs, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat once the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

1. Slice the Roulades: Once the chicken roulades are cooked, remove the toothpicks or twine. Slice the roulades into rounds (about 1-2 inches thick) for a beautiful presentation.
2. Plate and Serve: Drizzle the sauce over the sliced roulades or serve it on the side. Enjoy with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Tips:

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, provolone, or brie for a different flavor profile.
• Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs (like rosemary or sage) inside the roulade along with the ham and cheese for extra flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the roulades in advance, refrigerate them for a few hours, and then cook them when you’re ready.
• For a Lighter Version: Skip the breading and opt for searing the roulades directly in the skillet for a lighter option.

This Ham and Cheese Roulade recipe is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. The tender chicken, savory ham, and melty cheese make every bite a treat!