Imagine a dish that combines the succulent tenderness of perfectly cooked chicken or veal with the irresistible allure of melted cheese and savory ham. Our Cheese Birds recipe is not just a meal – it's a gastronomic experience that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary masterpiece. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, these rolled delights promise to elevate your cooking game and leave everyone craving more!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: European
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts or veal cutlets
- 100g cheese (e.g., Emmental or Mozzarella), sliced
- 4 slices of ham
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the meat by placing each chicken breast or veal cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the meat until it's approximately 1/4 inch thick and evenly flattened.
- Season both sides of the flattened meat with salt and pepper, ensuring even coverage.
- Place a slice of ham on each piece of meat, covering it almost completely.
- Layer sliced cheese on top of the ham, choosing Emmental or Mozzarella for best melting properties. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
- Carefully roll the meat tightly, tucking in the sides to create a compact bundle. Secure each roll with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent unraveling during cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
- Carefully place the rolled meat bundles into the skillet, seam-side down. Cook for approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, ensuring the meat is golden brown and the cheese begins to melt.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for chicken or 145°F (63°C) for veal.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 3-5 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute and ensures tender meat.
- Remove toothpicks or twine before serving. Optional: Garnish with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or thyme.
- Slice rolls diagonally and serve immediately, accompanied by a light salad or roasted vegetables.
Tips
- Meat Preparation is Key: Take your time pounding the meat evenly to ensure uniform cooking and a beautiful roll.
- Cheese Selection Matters: Choose high-moisture cheeses like Emmental or Mozzarella that melt beautifully and create that irresistible gooey center.
- Secure Tightly: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent the rolls from unraveling during cooking. Remove them carefully before serving.
- Temperature Control: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Let It Rest: Always allow the meat to rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to retain maximum juiciness.
- Pro Hack: For extra flavor, consider adding a thin spread of Dijon mustard or herbs inside before rolling.
- Presentation Matters: Slice diagonally and garnish with fresh herbs to make your Cheese Birds look as amazing as they taste!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 685kcal
Carbohydrates: 0g
Protein: 61g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 21g
Cholesterol: 195mg
