If you’re looking for a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with savory leeks, fresh tomatoes, and creamy cheese, then you’ve landed in the right place. This Stuffed Chicken Roll with Leek, Tomato and Cheese is not just a feast for the eyes but also a celebration of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a family dinner or an impressive gathering, this dish takes the humble chicken to new heights with a tantalizing stuffing that is sure to impress.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Stuffed Chicken Roll stands out due to its unique combination of ingredients. The sweetness of the leeks and the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly complement the rich, gooey cheese, creating a balanced flavor profile. The chicken is rolled to encase all these delicious fillings, resulting in a beautiful presentation that makes it a showstopper on any table. The use of spices like smoked paprika and turmeric adds depth, while the mustard brings a subtle tanginess that ties everything together.

Your Shopping Guide

Before you dive into this culinary adventure, here’s a handy shopping list to gather everything you need for your Stuffed Chicken Roll with Leek, Tomato and Cheese:

1 whole chicken, cleaned and deboned
3 leeks, finely chopped
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 tomato, sliced
150g graviera cheese, cut into sticks (or Gruyere, Emmental, American Swiss Cheese)
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp turmeric
2 tbsp mustard

Gear Checklist

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, ensure you have the following kitchen gear at hand:

Sharp knife – for deboning the chicken and chopping vegetables.
Cutting board – to protect your countertops while preparing the ingredients.
Large mixing bowl – for combining the stuffing ingredients.
Roasting pan – to bake the stuffed chicken roll to perfection.
Cooking twine or toothpicks – to secure the chicken roll.
Meat thermometer – to check the doneness of the chicken.

Build Stuffed Chicken Roll with Leek, Tomato and Cheese Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by ensuring your whole chicken is clean and deboned. Lay the chicken skin-side down on a clean surface. If you’re not comfortable deboning a whole chicken, ask your butcher to do it for you.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped leeks and onion, sautéing until they are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and turmeric, mixing well to incorporate the flavors.

Step 3: Assemble the Stuffing

Once the leeks and onions are ready, remove them from heat and let them cool slightly. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed vegetables with the sliced tomatoes and graviera cheese sticks. Mix gently, ensuring that each ingredient is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Stuff the Chicken

Spread the vegetable and cheese mixture evenly over the deboned chicken, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the chicken from one end to the other, tucking the filling as you go to keep everything inside.

Step 5: Secure the Roll

Use cooking twine to tie the chicken roll at intervals, or use toothpicks to secure the ends. This will help maintain the shape during cooking and keep the filling intact.

Step 6: Season the Outside

Drizzle the outside of the stuffed chicken roll with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Rub in the mustard all over the surface for added flavor and a golden crust.

Step 7: Roast the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Place the stuffed chicken roll in a roasting pan and bake for approximately 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). Baste the chicken with its juices halfway through cooking for extra moisture.

Step 8: Rest and Slice

Once cooked, remove the chicken roll from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite. Slice into rounds and serve warm.

Seasonal Ingredient Swaps

Feel free to customize your Stuffed Chicken Roll with Leek, Tomato and Cheese according to seasonal ingredients or personal preferences:

For a spring twist, substitute leeks with asparagus or spinach.
In the fall, try adding roasted pumpkin or butternut squash for a sweet flavor.
Swap the tomato for sun-dried tomatoes to intensify the flavor.
Experiment with different cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a tangy finish.

Pro Perspective

Making a Stuffed Chicken Roll may seem intimidating, but it’s quite straightforward with practice. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Use a sharp knife for deboning to make the process cleaner and easier.
Don’t rush the sautéing process; properly caramelized leeks and onions add depth to the filling.
Consider marinating the chicken in spices for a few hours or overnight for enhanced flavor.
Serve with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Save It for Later

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! This Stuffed Chicken Roll with Leek, Tomato and Cheese stores well. Here are some tips:

Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain moisture.
Use leftovers in salads or sandwiches for a quick meal option.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed chicken roll a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it the next day. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before roasting.

What should I serve with the Stuffed Chicken Roll?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted potatoes. A glass of white wine also complements the flavors beautifully.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will impart different flavors and melting characteristics.

Is it possible to freeze the stuffed chicken roll?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed chicken roll. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking as instructed.

Save & Share

If you’ve enjoyed this Stuffed Chicken Roll with Leek, Tomato and Cheese recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! Whether you’re posting on social media or gathering around the dinner table, this dish is meant to be shared and savored together.

The Stuffed Chicken Roll with Leek, Tomato and Cheese is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire. With its eye-catching presentation and delectable taste, it’s an ideal choice for any occasion. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to impress your loved ones with this showstopping dish!