I saw these at a neighbourhood cookout and could not figure out how they were assembled until the host showed me. Thin slices of chicken breast layered with slices of zucchini and strips of pancetta, rolled up tightly, and skewered alongside baby potatoes. Brushed with olive oil, sprinkled with rosemary, seasoned with Badia Complete Seasoning, and grilled until the chicken was cooked through and the potatoes were tender.
The pancetta wraps around the chicken and zucchini inside the roll and renders as it grills, basting everything from the inside. The rosemary chars on the outside and the seasoning mix clings to the olive oil. Each wheel, when you bite into it, has layers: crispy pancetta, soft zucchini, juicy chicken. This is the one I pull out when we have people over for grilling.
Tips for Making Grilled Chicken, Pancetta, and Zucchini Wheels
Slice the chicken thin enough to roll
Thin breast slices, about a quarter inch thick, are pliable enough to wrap around the zucchini and pancetta. Thick slices crack when you try to roll them.
Lay the chicken flat, top with a strip of zucchini and a strip of pancetta, roll tightly, and push a skewer through to hold it together.
Skewer the potatoes separately or cut them small
Baby potatoes take longer to cook than the chicken wheels. Cut them in half or quarter them so they cook in the same time as the chicken on the grill.
The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a knife. If the chicken is done and the potatoes are still firm, move the potatoes to indirect heat and let them finish.
Grilled Chicken, Pancetta, and Zucchini Wheels
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Skewer chicken with pancetta, zucchini, and rosemary potatoes for a delightful grilled meal perfect for summer dining.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into thin strips
- 8 slices pancetta
- 1 lb (450g) baby potatoes, halved
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, leaves stripped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Badia Complete Seasoning (or all-purpose seasoning blend)
- Wooden skewers, soaked
Instructions
- Layer thin slices of chicken breast, zucchini, and pancetta together and roll them up.
- Skewer the rolls along with baby potatoes.
- Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with rosemary.
- Season with Badia Complete Seasoning.
- Grill the skewers until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 15
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 30
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Badia Complete Seasoning?
A pre-mixed seasoning blend with garlic, onion, black pepper, oregano, and other spices. It is widely available in grocery stores. Any all-purpose seasoning blend works as a substitute.
Can I use a different meat?
Turkey breast slices or pork tenderloin, pounded thin, both work. The meat must be thin enough to roll around the fillings.
Can I make these ahead?
Assemble the rolls and skewer them up to a day ahead. Refrigerate covered. Brush with olive oil and season just before grilling.
Looked so impressive for how simple they are. Used bacon instead of pancetta and it was great.
Fancy but easy!
A couple fell off the grill so pack them tighter.
Mine came out juicy and looked fancy on the platter. Loved them, thanks!