These rolls are filled with a tasty combination of chicken, peppers, onions, and a blend of herbs, then wrapped in a golden, slightly crisp crust. Finished with melted cheddar cheese on top, they’re perfect for a meal any time of day. To complement these savory rolls, we’ll make a tangy and creamy yogurt sauce for dipping.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Cuisine: Comfort Food, Savory Rolls, Chicken Recipes
Ingredients
For the Rolls:
- 3 medium eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus extra for seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (plus extra for seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 5 medium potatoes, grated
- 1 red pepper, finely chopped
- 1 yellow pepper, finely chopped
- 1 bunch of parsley, finely chopped
- 1 bunch of green onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 stick (120g) butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 8 mushrooms, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Cherry tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
For the Filling:
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 large or 2 small chicken breasts, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 120g cheddar cheese (grated)
For the Sauce:
- 1 jar of Greek yogurt (120g)
- 1 teaspoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 small pickle, grated
- 1 bunch parsley, finely chopped
- 1 clove garlic, grated
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Whisk the Eggs and Seasoning
Start by cracking 3 eggs into a large mixing bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of oregano. Whisk everything together until the eggs are well combined and slightly frothy. -
Prepare the Potatoes
Grate 5 medium potatoes finely. This will give the rolls a lovely texture and a good bite. Once grated, use your hands or a towel to squeeze out the excess water from the potatoes. This step is crucial to prevent the roll from becoming soggy. -
Combine the Potatoes and Egg Mixture
Add the squeezed-out grated potatoes to the egg mixture. This will ensure that the potatoes are coated in the egg and seasoning, helping the rolls stay together. -
Chop the Vegetables
Finely chop 1 red pepper, 1 yellow pepper, and 1 bunch of green onions. Add these to the bowl with the potato and egg mixture. Then, finely chop 1 bunch of parsley and add it to the mix. The fresh parsley will provide a vibrant herby flavor to the rolls. -
Add Flour to Bind
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour into the bowl and mix it thoroughly. This will help bind the ingredients and make the mixture firm enough to spread. -
Prepare the Baking Base
On a baking sheet, line a piece of parchment paper. Spread the potato mixture out into a rectangular shape on the parchment paper. Aim for about half an inch of thickness, as this will be the base for your rolls. -
Bake the Base
Preheat your oven to 360°F (180°C). Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the base for about 20 minutes, just until it’s firm and set. -
Cook the Chicken Filling
While the base is baking, heat 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Finely chop 1 onion and add it to the hot pan. Sauté until the onion softens and turns golden. Then, finely chop 1 large chicken breast (or 2 small ones) and add them to the pan with the onion. Stir to cook the chicken, letting it brown and cook through. -
Add the Vegetables
Finely chop 1 red bell pepper and add it to the chicken in the pan. This will give the filling a sweet crunch. Grate 2 cloves of garlic and stir it into the pan. Allow the garlic to infuse the chicken with flavor. -
Season the Filling
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of oregano. Stir the mixture well, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed through the chicken and vegetables. -
Add Cheese
Grate 120g of cheddar cheese and add about a quarter of it to the pan. Stir it in until the cheese melts, helping to bind the filling and make it creamy. -
Remove the Base and Prepare the Rolls
After 20 minutes, the baked base should be firm and ready. Take it out of the oven and allow it to cool slightly for about 2 minutes. Then, cut the base into 4 or 6 rectangular pieces, depending on how large you want each roll to be. -
Fill the Rolls
Take a generous scoop of the chicken and vegetable filling and place it on each rectangle of the baked base. Spread the filling evenly across the base. -
Roll and Shape
Carefully roll each piece, keeping the filling inside. The rolls should hold their shape beautifully, creating small, packed rolls. Place each rolled piece back on the baking sheet. -
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining grated cheddar cheese on top of the rolls. This will melt into a beautiful, golden crust while baking. -
Bake the Rolls
Return the rolls to the oven and bake them for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. -
Prepare the Yogurt Sauce
While the rolls are baking, make the yogurt dipping sauce. Start with 1 jar (120g) of Greek yogurt and add 1 teaspoon of mustard and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a zesty kick. Grate 1 small pickle and add it to the sauce. The pickle will give the sauce a lovely crunch and tartness. Add 1 finely chopped bunch of parsley and 1 grated clove of garlic to enhance the flavor. -
Season the Sauce
Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper into the sauce. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. The sauce should be creamy, tangy, and slightly crunchy from the pickle. -
Serve and Enjoy
Once the rolls are out of the oven and golden, plate them up. Arrange the mini rolls on a serving platter with a small bowl of the yogurt sauce on the side. These rolls are perfect for dipping into the tangy sauce and make a comforting, savory treat.
Nutritional Information
- Serving size: 1 roll
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Vitamin A: 15%
- Vitamin C: 50%
- Calcium: 8%
- Iron: 15%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This dish is an excellent fusion of comfort food and Mediterranean influences. Savory rolls with a cheesy, herby filling are reminiscent of many classic Mediterranean dishes, where layers of flavor and textures blend beautifully. The fresh ingredients, such as parsley, bell peppers, and garlic, bring vibrant flavor and nutrients to the dish, while the use of yogurt for dipping gives it a cool contrast to the warm, cheesy rolls. The recipe is ideal for gatherings, meal prep, or any occasion that calls for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Comforting and Filling: These cheesy rolls are perfect for a satisfying meal. The creamy chicken and veggie filling inside the crispy exterior make them irresistible.
- Customizable: You can swap out vegetables, use ground meat instead of chicken, or adjust the seasoning to your taste.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced home cooks.
- Perfect for Sharing: The rolls are small and easy to serve, making them a great dish to share with family or guests.
Health Benefits
- Packed with Protein: The chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Rich in Fiber: The vegetables and potatoes in this dish contribute fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.
- Vitamins and Antioxidants: The fresh herbs, peppers, and onions offer a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants that promote overall health.
- Low in Carbs: If you’re following a low-carb diet, this dish offers a lower carb option than traditional meat-and-potato meals.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Fresh Salad: Pair these rolls with a light, leafy salad to balance out the richness of the rolls.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted or grilled vegetables to make the meal even heartier.
- Pair with a Glass of Wine: A light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs wonderfully with the creamy, savory flavors of the rolls.
Cooking Tips
- Let the Rolls Cool Slightly: Allow the rolls to cool for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps them set and makes them easier to handle.
- Make the Rolls in Advance: You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply bake for a few extra minutes to heat through and melt the cheese.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh, quality ingredients make all the difference in this dish. Use fresh chicken and vegetables for the best flavor.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or beans for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Spicy Rolls: Add some chopped chili peppers to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or gouda, for a different flavor.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Chicken and Veggie Rolls are a perfect combination of comforting flavors and textures, making them a delightful meal for any occasion. With their savory filling, golden crust, and tangy yogurt dipping sauce, they’re sure to please everyone at the table. Whether served for a weeknight dinner, a party, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
10 Comprehensive FAQs
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Can I make these rolls in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes before serving. -
Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the rolls before baking. Wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake them from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes. -
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Try using mozzarella, gouda, or any other cheese you prefer. -
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add more vegetables, such as spinach, zucchini, or carrots, to the filling for added flavor and nutrients. -
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use turkey, pork, or even beef in place of the chicken. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, but you can easily make it gluten-free by substituting the flour with a gluten-free flour blend. -
How do I make these rolls spicier?
Add some chili flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling for extra heat. -
How long do the rolls last in the fridge?
The rolls will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. -
Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt for a dairy-free version. -
Can I serve this dish as a main course?
Yes, these rolls are hearty enough to be served as a main dish, especially when paired with a side of vegetables or salad.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Cheesy Chicken and Veggie Rolls!