Name: Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups (Cuban Chicken) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 4 lb thin boneless chicken cutlets; 1¼ cups Pickle Juice; 4 tsp deli mustard; 2 oz reduced-sodium deli ham; 2 oz swiss cheese; 2 dill pickles; Olive oil spray; For Breading:; 1 large egg; ⅓ cup seasoned wheat; ⅓ cup seasoned wheat; Cooking spray

This is a delightful fusion recipe that combines the warmth of a Swiss roll with the tangy surprise of pickles and the hearty satisfaction of ham and chicken. The dish, aptly named Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups, is a unique twist on the traditional Cuban Chicken, bringing together a smorgasbord of flavors.

Photos of Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups (Cuban Chicken) Recipe

Most ingredients in this recipe are pantry staples in many homes. However, you may need to source Swiss cheese and reduced-sodium deli ham from your local supermarket or deli. These ingredients, with their unique flavor profiles, are essential to the dish. Make sure to go for thin boneless chicken cutlets, which can be easily rolled up. Also, quality dill pickles are key for the dish’s tangy element.

Ingredients for Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups

Chicken cutlets: Thin, boneless chicken cutlets are preferred for this recipe as they are easier to roll up.

Pickle juice: Used as a marinade, it gives the chicken a tangy flavor and tenderizes it.

Deli mustard: It adds a spicy kick to the dish.

Deli ham: Ham provides a smoky flavor, balancing out the tanginess.

Swiss cheese: Swiss cheese melts beautifully and gives a creamy texture.

Dill pickles: They are key to the roll's tangy flavor.

Olive oil spray: It helps to achieve a golden crisp exterior for the rolls.

Egg: Used for the egg wash, it helps the bread crumbs adhere to the chicken.

Seasoned wheat: The coating for the chicken, it gives a flavorful crunch.

One reader, Kelly Larue says:

This recipe is a game-changer! The combination of pickle, ham, and Swiss cheese in the chicken roll-ups is simply divine. The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the dish is so easy to make. It's a definite crowd-pleaser and has become a family favorite in no time. Highly recommended!

Kelly Larue

Techniques Required for Making Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups

How to marinate the chicken: Place the chicken in a shallow bowl and cover it with the pickle juice, ensuring it is completely submerged. Allow the chicken to marinate in the refrigerator for 8 hours, then drain and discard the marinade.

How to bread the chicken: Dip the chicken in the egg wash, then into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Shake off any excess breading before cooking.

How to bake the chicken roll-ups: Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and spray a baking sheet with oil. Place the breaded chicken roll-ups on the prepared baking sheet and spray the top generously with oil. Bake for about 25 minutes until golden outside and cooked through.

How to air fry the chicken roll-ups: Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F. Transfer the breaded chicken roll-ups to the air fryer basket in two batches. Cook until golden outside and cooked through in the center, for about 12 minutes, turning halfway through the cooking time.

How To Make Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups (Cuban Chicken)

Heads up! The most flavorful pickle-brined chicken roll ups are coming your way! This perfect Cuban dinner is served with pineapple for that Hawaiian twist.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4lbthin boneless chicken cutlets
1¼cupspickle juice
4tspdeli mustard
2ozreduced-sodium deli ham,thin sliced
2ozSwiss Cheese,shredded
2dill pickles,sliced very thin lengthwise, dried on paper towel
olive oil spray

For Breading:

1large egg,beaten
⅓cupseasoned wheat,or gluten-free breadcrumbs
⅓cupseasoned wheat,or gluten-free panko
cooking spray

Instructions

Oven Method:

Place chicken in a shallow bowl and cover with the pickle juice (enough to cover completely). Marinate in the refrigerator for 8 hours then drain discard marinade.
Dry the chicken completely on paper towels.
Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Spray a baking sheet with oil.
Spread 1 teaspoon of mustard over each piece of chicken. Layer the ham on top, then the Swiss cheese and pickles along the center and roll.
Place egg in a medium bowl.
In a shallow bowl, combine the bread crumbs and panko. Dip chicken in the egg wash, then into the breadcrumb mixture and shake off excess.
Transfer to the prepared baking sheet and spray the top generously with oil. Bake for about 25 minutes until golden outside and cooked through.

Air Fryer Method:

Follow steps 1-6.
Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F. Transfer to the air fryer basket in two batches until golden outside and cooked through in the center for about 12 minutes, turning halfway.

Nutrition

Calories: 1075.18kcal
Fat: 59.55g
Saturated Fat: 16.52g
Trans Fat: 0.48g
Monounsaturated Fat: 26.70g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.81g
Carbohydrates: 24.85g
Fiber: 4.21g
Sugar: 0.74g
Protein: 105.58g
Cholesterol: 357.92mg
Sodium: 798.76mg
Calcium: 201.70mg
Potassium: 1223.58mg
Iron: 4.84mg
Vitamin A: 162.25µg
Vitamin C: 1.33mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups

When rolling the chicken cutlets, ensure they are tightly rolled to keep the ham, swiss cheese, and pickles securely inside. This will not only help maintain the shape during cooking but also ensure even distribution of flavors in every bite. If you're having trouble keeping them rolled, you can use toothpicks to secure them. Just remember to remove the toothpicks before serving!

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Cuban Chicken Roll-Ups

Marinate efficiently: To save time, use a resealable plastic bag for marinating the chicken. This allows for even distribution of the pickle juice and reduces cleanup time.

Prep in advance: Prepare the chicken roll-ups the night before and store them in the refrigerator. This way, you can simply bread and cook them when you're ready to eat, saving valuable time during busy evenings.

Use a meat mallet: Pound the chicken cutlets to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This not only tenderizes the meat but also ensures quicker and more uniform cooking.

Opt for pre-sliced ingredients: Consider purchasing pre-sliced deli ham and Swiss cheese to streamline the preparation process and minimize the time spent on slicing and prepping ingredients.

Multi-task: While the chicken roll-ups are baking or air frying, use that time to prepare a quick side dish or salad to complete the meal. This helps maximize efficiency in the kitchen.

Substitute Ingredients For Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups (Cuban Chicken) Recipe

pickle juice - Substitute with white vinegar mixed with a pinch of salt: White vinegar mixed with a pinch of salt can replicate the tangy flavor of pickle juice and provide the necessary acidity to the dish.
deli mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard has a similar tangy and slightly spicy flavor that can replace deli mustard in the recipe.
deli ham - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey can provide a similar smoky and savory flavor as deli ham, while also adding a delicious depth to the dish.
swiss cheese - Substitute with Gruyère cheese: Gruyère cheese has a similar nutty and slightly sweet flavor profile to Swiss cheese, making it a great substitute in this recipe.
dill pickles - Substitute with bread and butter pickles: Bread and butter pickles have a slightly sweeter flavor compared to dill pickles, but they can still provide a delicious tanginess and crunch to the dish.

Plating Ideas for Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups

Elevate the dish with a stunning plating: When presenting the pickle ham and swiss chicken roll ups, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Consider using white plates to make the colors pop, and arrange the roll-ups in a neat and artistic manner.
Incorporate vibrant garnishes: Add a pop of color and freshness to the plate by incorporating vibrant garnishes such as microgreens, edible flowers, or thinly sliced radishes. These elements will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a layer of complexity to the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the roll-ups to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate and instead, strategically position the components to create a balanced and visually striking presentation.
Highlight the textures: Showcase the contrasting textures of the dish by incorporating a crunchy element such as a delicate herb-infused breadcrumb topping. This will add a delightful textural contrast to the tender chicken and gooey melted cheese.
Emphasize precision and symmetry: Pay attention to the placement of each component to ensure precision and symmetry. Neatly roll the chicken, and align the pickles and cheese to create a visually appealing and harmonious presentation.
Consider the use of sauce: Elevate the dish further by incorporating a drizzle of a complementary sauce, such as a tangy dijon mustard vinaigrette, to add a touch of finesse and flavor to the plate.
Add a touch of elegance with edible gold leaf: For an extra touch of sophistication, consider delicately adorning the plate with edible gold leaf. This luxurious addition will elevate the presentation and add a touch of opulence to the dish.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Cuban Chicken Roll-Ups

Shallow bowl: A shallow bowl is used for marinating the chicken and coating it with the breadcrumb mixture. It provides a wide surface area for easy dipping and coating.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used to place the rolled chicken for baking in the oven. It provides a flat, even surface for cooking and allows for easy removal of the chicken roll-ups.
Medium bowl: A medium bowl is used for beating the egg wash. It provides enough space for dipping the chicken and ensures even coating with the egg wash.
Air fryer: An air fryer is an alternative cooking appliance used for air frying the chicken roll-ups. It provides a healthier cooking method by using hot air circulation to cook the food.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Cuban Chicken Roll-Ups

Once cooled, store the chicken roll ups in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze, place the cooled chicken roll ups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid, about 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and contents. Frozen chicken roll ups will keep for up to 3 months.
To reheat, place the frozen chicken roll ups on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual chicken roll ups on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
If you plan to freeze the chicken roll ups, it's best to undercook them slightly during the initial baking process. This will help prevent them from drying out when reheated.
Consider doubling the recipe and freezing extra chicken roll ups for quick and easy future meals. They make great lunches or dinners when you're short on time.

How To Reheat Leftover Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups

To reheat leftover pickle ham and swiss chicken roll ups in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the roll ups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the roll ups loosely with another piece of foil to prevent them from drying out. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating to crisp up the exterior.
For a quicker reheating method, use the microwave. Place the chicken roll ups on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help maintain moisture and prevent the roll ups from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become tough and rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover cuban chicken roll ups. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the roll ups in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and the exterior is crispy. This method is ideal for maintaining the crispiness of the breadcrumb coating.
For a stovetop method, heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken roll ups in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until heated through. This method will help maintain moisture and create a slightly crispy exterior.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken roll ups reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature before serving.

Random Fact about Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups

The recipe for pickle ham and swiss chicken roll ups is a delicious fusion of flavors, combining the tangy taste of pickles with the savory ham and swiss cheese. This dish is a great way to add variety to your chicken recipes and is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

Is Making Cuban Chicken Roll-Ups at Home Cost-Effective?

This pickle ham and swiss chicken roll ups (Cuban chicken) recipe offers a moderate cost-effectiveness for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like chicken cutlets, pickle juice, deli ham, and swiss cheese makes it budget-friendly. However, the cost may slightly increase due to the use of olive oil spray and dill pickles. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $25-$30.

Is This Chicken Roll-Up Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The pickle ham and swiss chicken roll ups recipe, while tasty, may not be the healthiest option. Here's why:

The recipe uses 4 lbs of chicken cutlets, which is a significant amount of meat. Consuming large portions of meat can lead to an increased intake of saturated fat and cholesterol.
Deli ham and swiss cheese are processed meats and cheeses, which are often high in sodium and saturated fat. Excessive consumption of these ingredients can contribute to health issues like high blood pressure and heart disease.
The breading process involves egg wash and seasoned breadcrumbs, adding extra calories and carbohydrates to the dish.
The recipe calls for frying the chicken roll ups in oil, which can significantly increase the fat content of the meal.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the portion size of the chicken cutlets and increase the amount of vegetables served alongside the dish. This will help balance the meal and provide essential nutrients.
Opt for low-sodium, nitrate-free deli ham and reduced-fat swiss cheese to minimize the intake of harmful additives and saturated fat.
Instead of breading the chicken roll ups, try seasoning them with herbs and spices before baking. This will reduce the calorie and carbohydrate content while still providing flavor.
Bake the chicken roll ups in the oven or use an air fryer instead of frying them in oil. This cooking method will significantly reduce the fat content of the dish.
Serve the chicken roll ups with a side salad or roasted vegetables to add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Delightful Chicken Roll-Up Recipe

The combination of pickle juice, deli mustard, ham, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles creates a unique and flavorful profile for the chicken roll-ups. The marinating process infuses the chicken with tangy and savory notes, while the crispy breading adds a delightful texture. The recipe offers versatility with both oven and air fryer cooking methods, catering to different preferences. Overall, the Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups (Cuban Chicken) recipe is a creative and delicious twist on traditional chicken dishes, sure to impress with its bold flavors and delightful presentation.

Enhance Your Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups (Cuban Chicken) Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of roasted garlic, perfect for complementing the savory flavors of the pickle ham and swiss chicken roll ups.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest, adding a bright and refreshing element to the dish.

Caramelized Pineapple Slices: Sweet and juicy pineapple slices caramelized to perfection, providing a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the Cuban chicken roll ups.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Chicken Roll-Ups

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs, then grill until cooked through. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Mango Salsa Fish Tacos: Season and grill the fish, then assemble the tacos with a homemade mango salsa, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of creamy chipotle sauce. These tacos are a refreshing and delicious option for a summer dinner.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Sauté mushrooms and onions, then add arborio rice and slowly incorporate chicken broth until the rice is creamy and tender. Finish with a touch of butter and parmesan cheese for a comforting and satisfying risotto dish.

Berry Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream: Combine fresh berries with sugar and lemon juice, then top with a buttery biscuit dough and bake until golden and bubbly. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic and irresistible dessert option.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a delectable appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a crowd-pleasing starter.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Whip up a tropical-inspired appetizer by coating shrimp in a crispy coconut breading. Fry until golden brown and serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful flavor combination.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate when you cut into it. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry sauce for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Why trust this Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups (Cuban Chicken) Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the succulent taste of pickle juice-marinated chicken with the savory notes of deli ham and swiss cheese. The meticulous preparation ensures that the chicken is tender and juicy, while the dill pickles add a refreshing crunch. The use of deli mustard and a crispy bread crumb coating further enhances the dish, creating a mouthwatering experience. Whether baked in the oven or air-fried, this recipe guarantees a delectable outcome, making it a trustworthy choice for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Share your thoughts and experiences with making Pickle Ham and Swiss Chicken Roll Ups (Cuban Chicken) in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken cutlets?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of cutlets. Simply pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure they cook evenly.

Can I use regular mustard instead of deli mustard?

Yes, you can use regular mustard if you don't have deli mustard on hand. The flavor may be slightly different, but it will still work well in the recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and freeze it?

Yes, you can assemble the chicken roll-ups ahead of time and freeze them before baking. When ready to cook, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the baking instructions.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese in place of Swiss cheese. Cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella would all work well in this recipe.

Can I skip the marinating step?

While marinating the chicken in pickle juice adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat, you can skip this step if you're short on time. However, I recommend marinating for at least a couple of hours to enhance the flavor.