Irresistible Grilled Chicken Involtini with Smoked Turkey and Basil
Savor the flavors of Grilled Chicken Involtini with Smoked Turkey and Basil, a juicy, herb-infused dish perfect for any dinner occasion. This delicate yet flavorful recipe combines tender chicken breast rolled with savory smoked turkey slices and fresh basil leaves, grilled to perfection for a beautiful caramelized finish. It’s a crowd-pleaser that offers a delightful balance of smoky, herby, and cheesy goodness wrapped into one satisfying bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of smoked turkey and fresh basil creates a mouthwatering taste that will keep you coming back.
- Healthy and Protein-Packed: Lean chicken breast paired with flavorful additions offers a nutritious, balanced option for any meal.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special event, this dish fits every setting perfectly.
- Perfect Presentation: These neat, rolled involtinis make a stunning display on the plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Grilled Chicken Involtini with Smoked Turkey and Basil lies in using straightforward but thoughtful ingredients that enhance taste, texture, and color. Each component plays a role in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and a visually appealing dish.
- Chicken Breasts: Thinly sliced for easy rolling and quick grilling, they serve as the tender base.
- Smoked Turkey Slices: Adds a rich, smoky flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Bring bright, fresh herbal notes, balancing the smoky elements.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Vegetal): Melts inside for creamy texture and a mild, comforting taste.
- Olive Oil: For brushing, adding richness and helping achieve that perfect char.
- Garlic Cloves: Minced to infuse the chicken with a lovely aromatic base.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A splash in the marinade for a subtle tang and tenderizing effect.
Variations for Grilled Chicken Involtini with Smoked Turkey and Basil
One of the best parts about this recipe is how easily you can make it your own. Feel free to switch up ingredients or adjust based on dietary preferences, seasonality, or whatever you have on hand.
- Herb Swap: Use fresh parsley or thyme instead of basil for a different herbal twist.
- Cheese Variation: Try shredded plant-based gouda or cheddar to change the flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Vegan Version: Use grilled thin slices of eggplant or zucchini instead of chicken, with smoked tofu replacing turkey.
- Gluten-Free Flour Dusting: Before grilling, dust rolled involtinis lightly with almond flour for an extra crispy crust.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Involtini with Smoked Turkey and Basil
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board and gently pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they are about 1/4 inch thick. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of apple cider vinegar for tenderness.
Step 2: Assemble the Involtini
Place a smoked turkey slice on each chicken breast, followed by several fresh basil leaves. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) on top. Roll the chicken tightly around the filling and secure with toothpicks if needed.
Step 3: Marinate for Flavor
Whisk olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper together and brush the involtinis generously. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes for the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the involtinis on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, turning carefully to avoid losing the filling. Look for lovely grill marks and that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once grilled, let the involtinis rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Remove toothpicks and slice if desired for a beautiful presentation.
Pro Tips for Making Grilled Chicken Involtini with Smoked Turkey and Basil
- Even Thickness: Pounding chicken evenly ensures quick, uniform cooking without dryness.
- Secure Rolls: Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the involtinis from unraveling while grilling.
- Don’t Overload Filling: Too much cheese or turkey can make rolling and grilling tricky.
- Preheat Fully: A hot grill creates those perfect sear marks and locks in moisture.
- Rest Before Serving: Essential for juicy bites and preventing the filling from leaking.
How to Serve Grilled Chicken Involtini with Smoked Turkey and Basil
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top bring vibrant color and an additional burst of fragrance right before serving. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds a glossy finish and subtle richness.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with a simple mixed green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or some grilled asparagus for a fresh, crisp contrast. Creamy mashed potatoes or a bed of quinoa also complement the involtinis perfectly, absorbing the smoky, cheesy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the involtinis into medallions and arrange them on a serving platter for a tapas-style presentation, perfect for entertaining. Alternately, serve whole with roasted cherry tomatoes to add a pop of color and fresh sweetness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled leftover involtinis in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Store them separately from any fresh garnishes to maintain texture and flavor.
Freezing
Wrap each involtini tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing to prevent freezer burn. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a low oven (around 325°F / 160°C) for 10-15 minutes to warm thoroughly without drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cause the fillings to separate.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat instead of smoked turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute with smoked chicken slices or thinly sliced roast beef for a different flavor profile while still keeping the smoky essence.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply swap the shredded mozzarella cheese (vegetal) for your favorite dairy-free cheese alternative or skip cheese altogether and add extra herbs for flavor.
How do I know when the involtinis are fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), and you should see clear juices when pierced. Cooking time varies slightly based on size, so using a meat thermometer is ideal.
Can I grill these indoors on a grill pan?
Definitely! A good grill pan works well for this recipe and gives those classic grill marks and smoky flavor even without an outdoor grill.
What sides pair best with Grilled Chicken Involtini with Smoked Turkey and Basil?
Fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or simple grains like quinoa or couscous complement the rich and smoky flavors perfectly, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Chicken Involtini with Smoked Turkey and Basil recipe is a delicious way to bring warmth, flavor, and a bit of elegance to your table any night of the week. It’s approachable, adaptable, and sure to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it. Give it a try and savor those incredible flavors rolled into every bite!
