Pesto Roll-Ups
A low carb chicken recipe. Cut down on pesto used and can be waist friendly too.
A low carb chicken recipe. Cut down on pesto used and can be waist friendly too.
- Carbohydrate 0 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 1.68750000072367 g
- Fiber 0 g
- Protein 0 g
- Saturated Fat 0.233010000099924 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (115g)
- Sodium 0.0337500000144734 mg
- Sugar 0 g
- Trans Fat 0.0456975000195973 g
- Calories 15 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat the olive oil to medium heat in a large skillet
- Place a thin chicken cutlet on a cutting board, spread with 1 tbsp of pesto and 1 tbsp of shredded parmesan.
- Roll the chicken cutlet and secure with a toothpick if needed. (I secured all of mine with a toothpick, then removed them half way through cooking them and they stayed perfectly rolled up)
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste and add to pan.
- Cook chicken until light golden brown and cooked all the way through about 6-8 minutes. Turning frequently to ensure even browning. Repeat until all pieces are cooked. I added several to the pan at a time and it took me 2 batches to get them all cooked.
- Serve with lemon wedges and just before eating sprinkle some lemon juice over the chicken. The lemon accentuates the flavor of the basil and makes it a 5 star dish.
- I served mine with fresh asparagus sauteed in a pan at high heat with butter. Sprinkled with salt and pepper and drizzled with some lemon juice to serve. Excellent!
- Please note you can also use your own pesto recipe or pre-made pesto. But the flavor in the pre-made one will not be as fantastic as freshly made pesto.
Pesto Roll-Ups: My Go-To Weeknight Dinner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and keeping the house running smoothly, the last thing I want to spend my precious evenings doing is slaving away in the kitchen. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of quick, easy, and versatile recipes that don’t compromise on flavor or nutrition. This Pesto Roll-Ups recipe is a perfect example – it’s ready in under 30 minutes, and the results are absolutely stunning. The vibrant green pesto pairs beautifully with the tender chicken, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave your family wanting more.
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. It’s incredibly adaptable to your preferences and what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different herbs in your pesto, add some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and acidity, or serve it with a side of your favorite vegetables. The possibilities are endless! I often change up the sides based on the season – in the spring, I love serving it with fresh asparagus, while in the summer, a simple salad hits the spot. In the autumn, roasted root vegetables create a comforting and warming side, while in winter, a creamy potato gratin pairs beautifully. No matter the season, this dish always feels fresh, exciting, and satisfying.
Why I Love this Recipe:
- Speed and Efficiency: This recipe takes minimal time to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of pesto, chicken, and lemon is truly divine. The fresh basil pesto adds a vibrant, herbaceous layer to the tender chicken.
- Versatility: This dish can be easily customized to your liking. Experiment with different cheeses, herbs, or vegetables to create your own unique variation.
- Healthier Option: This is a relatively low-carb meal making it a great fit for those who are trying to maintain or lose weight. Using lean chicken ensures it's a lean protein option.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The vibrant green pesto and golden-brown chicken make this dish visually appealing, adding a touch of elegance to any meal.
Tips and Tricks for Pesto Roll-Ups Perfection:
- Thinly Sliced Chicken: Using thinly sliced chicken breasts ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from becoming dry.
- Fresh Pesto is Best: While store-bought pesto works in a pinch, homemade pesto offers a far superior flavor profile. This is one of the best things about this dish - it's truly enhanced by fresh ingredients.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: To ensure even browning, don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. Cook the rolls in batches if necessary.
- Toothpicks: Use toothpicks to secure the chicken rolls during cooking. This helps to maintain their shape and prevents the filling from spilling out.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens the flavors and adds a refreshing touch.
This Pesto Roll-Ups recipe is a testament to the fact that healthy and delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a light and flavorful weekend lunch. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and see for yourself the magic that simple ingredients can create. Remember to adjust the seasoning to your preference, and experiment with different sides to keep things exciting. Happy cooking!
