Chicken Rolls with Cilantro Lime Pesto
3 cloves garlic
1/2 small onion, chopped
1/2 C. cilantro
Juice of 1 lime
1 T. marinated jalapeño chile peppers
4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves, butterflied and pounded to 1/4″ thick (about 1 1/2 lb.)
Salt
Ground black pepper
1 T. canola oil
1/2 C. shredded reduced-fat Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese
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To butterfly a boneless chicken breast, start at the thickest side of the breast and slice it crosswise through the side, almost in half. Open the breast up like a book and press to flatten. To pound it thin, place the chicken between 2 pieces of plastic wrap and use the flat side of a meat mallet to pound it to the desired thickness, being careful not to tear the plastic. In a blender or food processor, combine the garlic, onion, cilantro, lime juice, and peppers. Pulse for 4 or 5 seconds to blend. Sprinkle the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper to taste. Spread 1/4 of the garlic mixture over one side of each piece of chicken. Roll up the chicken and secure it with twine. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, turning to ensure that both sides are evenly browned. Remove the twine with kitchen scissors. Sprinkle each piece of chicken with the cheese just before serving.