After a long day, I often find myself yearning for a comforting meal that’s as delightful to prepare as it is to eat. That’s how I discovered my Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels in Wine Sauce. The moment you unwrap the delicate layers of prosciutto and gooey mozzarella from the tender chicken, you know you’re in for something special. This dish not only combines elegant flavors but also provides the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal without hours of effort.
Imagine the enticing aroma of garlic and shallots sizzling on the stove while a rich Madeira wine sauce simmers to perfection. This easy recipe transforms simple chicken breasts into a gourmet experience that will impress family and friends alike. And the best part? Each rollicking pinwheel is not only a feast for the eyes but also a culinary adventure that delivers on taste and ease. So, let’s dive into making this show-stopping dish that’s bound to become a favorite at your dinner table!
Why love Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels in Wine Sauce?
Simplicity: This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for chefs of all skill levels, ensuring a stress-free cooking experience.
Irresistible Flavors: The combination of prosciutto, mozzarella, and Madeira wine creates a delightful flavor profile that elevates each bite.
Impressive Presentation: With their elegant appearance, these pinwheels are sure to wow guests at your next gathering.
Versatile Dish: Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these pinwheels adapt to any setting effortlessly.
Time-Saving: Quick to prep and cook, this dish allows you to enjoy a hearty homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up your delightful Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels in Wine Sauce with these essential ingredients!
For the Roll-Ups
- Boneless skinless chicken breast halves – a tender canvas for the delightful filling and sauce.
- Thin slices prosciutto or deli ham – adds a savory, salty kick that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- Slices part-skim mozzarella cheese – melts to creamy perfection, enhancing the flavor of each bite.
For the Coating
- Large eggs – lightly beaten, they help the breadcrumbs stick for a deliciously crispy exterior.
- Italian-style panko bread crumbs – provide a delightful crunch and absorb the flavors well.
For the Wine Sauce
- Butter, cubed – enriches the sauce with a velvety texture that makes it irresistible.
- Shallot, finely chopped – offers a subtle sweet onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Garlic cloves, minced – infuses a fragrant aroma and enhances the overall taste profile.
- Madeira wine – adds depth and sophistication to the sauce, making these pinwheels truly gourmet.
Get ready to create flavor-packed, juicy Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels that will impress at your dinner table!
How to Make Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels in Wine Sauce
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Pound the Chicken: Grab your meat mallet and gently pound the chicken breasts to a 1/4-in. thickness. Layer each piece with prosciutto and mozzarella for a mouthwatering filling. Roll the chicken from the short side and secure with toothpicks to keep everything cozy inside.
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Prepare for Coating: In two shallow bowls, place the beaten eggs and Italian-style panko bread crumbs. Dip each chicken roll in the eggs, allowing them to soak up the goodness, then roll them in the crumbs until nicely coated. Cut each roll crosswise into 3 slices and place them cut side down in a greased 13×9-in. baking dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors mingle.
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Preheat the Oven: About 15 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and uncover it, allowing it to come to room temperature while the oven warms up.
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Make the Wine Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, add shallots and garlic, sautéing until they’re tender and aromatic—about 1-2 minutes. Pour in the Madeira wine and bring it to a boil. Cook, stirring, until the liquid reduces to about 1-1/2 cups, intensifying the flavors.
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Bake to Perfection: Pour the luscious wine sauce over your chicken pinwheels, then bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until a thermometer reads 165°F. Don’t forget to remove the toothpicks before serving to ensure a delightful bite without any surprises!
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels in Wine Sauce?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these delightful pinwheels with accompaniments that enhance their gourmet flavors and textures.
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Creamy Risotto: The richness of creamy risotto balances the savory flavors of the pinwheels, making each bite a celebration of comfort.
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Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic provide a fresh, vibrant contrast, bringing out the earthy notes in the dish.
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Herb-Infused Quinoa: Light and fluffy, quinoa infused with fresh herbs complements the hearty chicken while adding a nutritious twist.
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Roasted Asparagus: Slightly charred and drizzled with olive oil, roasted asparagus offers an elegant touch that brightens the dinner plate.
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Italian Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette cleanses the palate, making each mouthful of chicken more enjoyable.
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Decadent Mashed Potatoes: Silky, buttery mashed potatoes create a comforting base that soaks up the rich wine sauce, making every bite irresistible.
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Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass of sparkling white wine brings a celebratory feel to the meal, enhancing flavors without overpowering the dish.
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Chocolate Mousse: Finish the meal on a sweet note with a light and airy chocolate mousse, perfectly balancing the savory entrée with a touch of decadence.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels in Wine Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken roll-ups up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps of pounding the chicken, layering with prosciutto and mozzarella, and rolling them up. Once assembled, simply dip them in the egg and panko coating, place them in a greased baking dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, just remove them from the fridge, let them sit at room temperature while the oven preheats, then pour over the lovely wine sauce and bake as directed. Enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal last-minute work!
Variations & Substitutions for Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels in Wine Sauce
Feel free to get creative and personalize this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs, transforming it into a unique masterpiece!
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Pesto Twist: Spread a layer of basil pesto over the chicken before adding prosciutto for a fresh herbaceous flavor. This will elevate your pinwheels into a vibrant culinary delight.
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Spinach & Feta: Substitute prosciutto with fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair. The spinach adds color and nutrients, while feta brings a tangy creaminess that’s irresistible.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free panko bread crumbs for a deliciously crispy crust that everyone can enjoy, no matter their dietary restrictions.
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Cheesy Extravaganza: Add a blend of cheeses like provolone or parmesan for an ultra-cheesy filling that takes these pinwheels to a whole new level of decadence.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the filling for those who crave a little heat in their dishes.
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Herb-Infused Sauce: Infuse the wine sauce with fresh thyme or rosemary for a delightful aromatic touch that complements the chicken beautifully.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for eggplant slices or zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version that still delivers on flavor and presentation.
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Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts into the breadcrumb mixture for an unexpected crunch that adds texture and flavor to the dish.
Let your imagination guide you as you prepare these delicious pinwheels, making each bite a personal creation!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels in Wine Sauce
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze pinwheels before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking. Reheat at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes, ensuring they reach 165°F.
Airtight Packaging: If storing cooked pinwheels, slice them for easy serving and place them in airtight containers to maintain their delicious flavors.
Tips for the Best Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels
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Right Thickness: Pound chicken to exactly 1/4-in. thickness for even cooking. If it’s too thick, the insides may remain undercooked while the outside gets dry.
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Delicious Cheese Melting: Use part-skim mozzarella for a perfect creamy texture that melts beautifully. Avoid low-fat versions, as they won’t melt as well.
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Chilling Time: Refrigerate the coated pinwheels overnight to enhance flavors and ensure they hold their shape during baking. Skipping this step may lead to spilling during cooking.
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Avoid Overcooking: Monitor the internal temperature closely using a meat thermometer. Remove from the oven as soon as it hits 165°F to keep the chicken juicy.
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Wine Quality Matters: Choose a good-quality Madeira wine for a richer sauce flavor. Lower-quality wines can alter the taste of your Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels in Wine Sauce.
Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels in Wine Sauce Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe chicken for my Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavor and tenderness, look for boneless skinless chicken breasts that are pinkish in color and firm to the touch. Avoid chicken with a gray tint or any dark spots, which could indicate spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels?
To keep your delicious pinwheels, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or oven—ensure they are warmed through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
Can I freeze Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels?
Very! Freezing is a great option. Prepare the pinwheels but do not bake them. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What should I do if my pinwheels fall apart during baking?
If your Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels are unravelling, it may be because they were not rolled tightly enough or the toothpicks came loose. To remedy this, ensure you roll them tightly and secure with firmly placed toothpicks. If you find them unravelling post-baking, serve them as a delicious deconstructed dish; they still taste amazing!
Are these pinwheels suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Yes! These Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels can accommodate various diets. To make them gluten-free, substitute the Italian-style panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs. If you’re concerned about dairy, you can experiment with non-dairy cheese alternatives. Always check for allergies or sensitivities to the specific ingredients used.
Can I substitute Madeira wine in the sauce?
Absolutely! If you don’t have Madeira wine, consider using dry vermouth or a combination of white wine with a splash of vinegar for acidity. The key is to ensure it retains a rich flavor to complement the chicken without overpowering it.
Irresistible Chicken-Prosciutto Pinwheels in Wine Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pound the chicken breasts to 1/4-in. thickness, layer with prosciutto and mozzarella, roll up, and secure with toothpicks.
- Prepare beaten eggs and panko bread crumbs in shallow bowls. Dip chicken rolls in eggs, then coat with breadcrumbs, slice into 3 pieces, and refrigerate.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F about 15 minutes before baking.
- Melt butter in a saucepan, sauté shallots and garlic, then add Madeira wine and boil until reduced.
- Pour sauce over chicken pinwheels, bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until cooked through, and remove toothpicks before serving.