Ricette di Sicilia
Cibo, cultura e tradizioni siciliane
Chicken Roulade with Spinach: A Heartfelt Sicilian Classic
Master the art of Sicilian cooking with this sumptuous chicken roulade filled with spinach — a taste of tradition that promises a truly memorable meal!
📖 What is it
Master the art of Sicilian cooking with this sumptuous chicken roulade filled with spinach — a taste of tradition that promises a truly memorable meal!
🛒 Ingredients
- ✓ 600 g chicken breast
- ✓ 150 g stale bread
- ✓ 400 g spinach
- ✓ 100 ml milk
- ✓ 30 g Sicilian pecorino, grated
- ✓ 1 egg
- ✓ 1 clove of garlic
- ✓ 150 g pancetta or lard
- ✓ 30 g sun-dried tomatoes in oil
- ✓ 40 g walnuts
- ✓ 3 sprigs of rosemary
- ✓ salt
- ✓ freshly ground black pepper
- ✓ extra virgin olive oil
📊 Nutritional Information
This chicken roulade with spinach is a loving nod to the authentic flavours of Sicily, where age-old traditions meet fresh, local ingredients. Imagine a cosy kitchen filled with the enticing aroma of fragrant herbs and a dish that recalls those cherished Sunday family dinners. Tender chicken breast wrapped around a rich filling of fresh spinach, milk-soaked bread, crispy pancetta and that wonderfully distinctive Sicilian pecorino cheese, all lifted by the tang of sun-dried tomatoes. A dish that tells the story and passion of the island’s cuisine — perfect for sharing warmth and good company around the table.
👨🍳 Preparation
- 1
Finely chop the pancetta and sun-dried tomatoes, then add the crushed walnuts and rosemary. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil and mix well.
- 2
Wash the spinach and gently cook it with garlic and oil for about 10 minutes, then set it aside.
- 3
Cut the bread into cubes and soak in the milk. Add the egg, pecorino, salt and pepper, then stir this mixture into the pancetta blend.
- 4
Split the chicken breasts in half, flatten them gently with a rolling pin, and season with salt. Spread the filling over the chicken and scatter on the cooked spinach.
- 5
Roll up the chicken tightly and secure with kitchen string.
- 6
Place the roulade in a roasting dish, drizzle with olive oil and add a few rosemary sprigs. Roast at 180°C for 50 to 55 minutes, then crisp the top under the grill.
- 7
Allow to cool slightly before slicing and serve warm.
💡 Tips and Variations
- •
For an even richer filling, try adding slices of caciocavallo ragusano or a sprinkle of salted ricotta, introducing complex layers of flavour.
- •
Using a meat mallet to flatten the chicken ensures an even thickness, making it easier to roll and cook through perfectly.
- •
While chicken is the star here, feel free to swap it with turkey steaks for a lighter yet equally tasty alternative.
- •
For a vegetarian version, omit the pancetta and replace it with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and soft goat's cheese to maintain a lovely balance.
- •
A pinch of nutmeg in the spinach and bread mixture really lifts the depth of flavour in this cosy filling.
- •
If you're aiming for a vegan take, swap the egg with a tablespoon of chickpea flour mixed with a touch of water, and choose dairy-free bread and a plant-based grated cheese.
- •
The magic of this recipe lies in slow roasting and the harmonious blend of ingredients — patience and love are the true keys here.
📦 Storage
- • Store the roulade in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it tender and fragrant for up to 2-3 days.
- • For longer storage, wrap it tightly in cling film or foil and freeze; it will keep for up to three months without losing flavour or texture.
- • When ready to enjoy again, thaw slowly in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 180°C for about 15-20 minutes to restore the crisp top and awaken the aromas.
🍷 Pairing
Pair this dish with a Cerasuolo di Vittoria, a well-balanced Sicilian red with fruity notes that complement the delicate chicken and savoury pecorino beautifully.
Alternatively, a fresh, lively Frappato offers an elegant, lightly spiced match that brings out the herbaceous spinach.
If you prefer something a bit further afield, a Dolcetto d’Alba from Piedmont is a brilliant choice, its freshness and gentle tannins balancing the richness of the filling.
Give this Sicilian chicken roulade a try in your own kitchen and bring a little warmth and tradition to your dinner table. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike — perfect for creating new memories over a shared meal. Don’t hesitate to tuck in and share the love of Sicily’s wonderful flavours with those you hold dear.
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