Ingredients

1 large eggplant
1 whole boneless skinless chicken breast , halved
1 onion
4 garlic cloves
4 tablespoons olive oil
salt , to taste
fresh ground black pepper , to taste
1 lemon , zest of
1 tablespoon fresh basil , shredded
150 g ricotta cheese
1 jar red capsicum pasta sauce
12 wooden cocktail sticks , possibly more , depending on how many rolls you make
fresh basil ( to garnish )
These Chicken and Eggplant Rolls are a delicious twist on traditional Italian rollatini. The dish is perfect for lunch or dinner and is sure to satisfy your hunger. Eggplant provides a unique and satisfying flavor to the dish, while the chicken adds protein and heartiness. The combination of the creamy ricotta cheese and tangy pasta sauce takes this dish to the next level. Serve these rolls with a salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2.Cut the eggplant lengthwise into 1/2 cm thick slices.
3.Slice the onion and garlic.
4.Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a frying pan and fry the eggplant slices until both sides are golden brown. Set aside.
5.Fry the chicken breast halves until golden brown on both sides, set aside and let cool down before cutting into small cubes.
6.In a large bowl, mix the chopped chicken cubes with the sliced onions, garlic, basil, and ricotta cheese until well combined.
7.Lay each eggplant slice out flat and spoon a portion of the chicken mixture onto one end of each slice.
8.Roll up the eggplant slice, securing it with a wooden cocktail stick.
9.Spread 2 tablespoons of olive oil on a baking dish, then pour in the pasta sauce.
10.Arrange the eggplant rolls on top of the pasta sauce.
11.Top each roll with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.
12.Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the rolls are golden brown.
13.Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.

PROS

These Chicken and Eggplant Rolls are a great source of protein and fiber.
They’re filling and satisfying, perfect for lunch or dinner.

The recipe is easy to make and doesn’t require many ingredients.

CONS

Eggplant can be a bit bitter if not cooked properly, but frying it before rolling helps to reduce the bitterness.

Using wooden cocktail sticks requires a bit of extra work, but it’s worth it to keep the rolls from falling apart.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Eggplant is low in calories and high in fiber, making it great for weight management and digestive health.
Chicken is high in protein, which supports muscle growth and repair. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12 and iron.
Olive oil is a heart-healthy fat that helps to decrease inflammation and protect against chronic diseases like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

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