Chicken Roll Ups
These chicken roll ups are a delicious, easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with savory fillings. Perfect for a quick meal, they offer great flavor in every bite, making dinner effortless.

When I want a quick and delicious meal that don’t require hours in the kitchen, chicken roll ups are the perfect solution. They look impressive but are easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, melted cheese, and flavorful fillings makes every bite satisfying, and the best part is, it only takes about 30 minutes to make!
This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight meal or preparing something special for friends and family. It’s always a hit with everyone, including my picky eaters who enjoy eating it with a copycat Longhorn mac and cheese on the side.
Over the years, I’ve found that these roll ups are not only quick to make but also budget-friendly and they store well for leftovers the next day. The recipe is versatile enough to suit a variety of diets, whether you’re looking for a low-carb option or something more indulgent. If you’re looking for a dinner idea that’s as easy as it is tasty, I think you’ll really love this chicken recipe.
Items Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make chicken roll ups:
- Chicken breasts: A lean protein that provides a tender, juicy base for the roll ups.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding a creamy, gooey texture that enhances the flavor.
- Tomato sauce: Offers a tangy, rich flavor that complements the chicken and adds moisture to the dish.
- Parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant color and a subtle herbal flavor to balance the richness of the other ingredients.
- Garlic: Brings a savory, aromatic kick that enhances the overall flavor profile of the roll ups.
- Pepper: Adds a touch of heat and seasoning, elevating the taste without overwhelming the dish.
- Salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients and brings everything together.
- Ham: Adds a savory, slightly smoky flavor and extra protein, making the roll ups even more filling.
- Cream cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy richness that helps bind the filling and adds smooth texture.
Tools you’ll need
Before starting the recipe, you’ll want to have all your kitchen essentials ready. I recommend having the following items:
Ways To Customize
Here are some easy ways to customize your chicken roll ups recipe to suit your taste:
- Cheese Variety: Swap out mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or provolone for a different flavor profile.
- Sauce Alternatives: Try Alfredo sauce, pesto, or even a spicy marinara to give the roll-ups a unique twist.
- Meat Options: Use turkey breasts instead of chicken for a lighter, leaner option.
- Herbs and Spices: Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano to the filling for extra aroma and flavor.
- Veggie Add-ins: Include spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers in the filling to add texture and nutrients.
- Low-Fat Version: Use low-fat cheese or substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a healthier take.
- Extra Crunch: Coat the chicken in breadcrumbs before baking for a crispy, golden exterior.
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below.
How To Make It
To get started, preheat your oven to 375°F(190°C) and gather your ingredients. Then, follow these simple step-by-step instructions.
Halve the chicken breasts horizontally to get 4 fillets.
Lay the chicken fillets on a cutting board. You can flatten more with a mallet, if desired.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Spread one tablespoon of cream cheese on each chicken fillet evenly.
Sprinkle some minced garlic over the cream cheese.
Then sprinkle on chopped parsley.
Add a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the garlic and parsley.
Place a slice of ham on top.
Roll up each chicken fillet from one end, forming a roll. Secure each roll with a toothpick to keep it from unraveling.
Place the roll-ups in a backing dish.
Pour a small amount of tomato sauce over the roll-ups. Bake the roll-ups in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Pour more tomato sauce over the roll-ups.
Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and melted.
Remove the roll-ups from the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley on top.
Serve hot and enjoy.
Note
Make sure to evenly flatten the chicken with a meat mallet to ensure uniform cooking and prevent thick areas in the roll-ups.
Storage
To store leftover chicken roll ups, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Helpful Hints
Pro tip: Flatten Chicken Evenly
Flattening the chicken evenly ensures it cooks uniformly, preventing any thick spots that might remain undercooked. Use a meat mallet to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness for the best results.
Here are some helpful hints for making the perfect chicken roll ups.
- For extra flavor, season with your favorite spices before rolling them up.
- If the chicken breasts are too thick, use a meat mallet to flatten them for even cooking.
- To avoid the cheese from oozing out, be sure to secure the roll-ups tightly with toothpicks.
- For a crispy finish, broil the for the last few minutes of baking.
- Don’t skip checking the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
Serving Suggestions
For a lighter option, serve them with a fresh green salad made of mixed greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad complements the richness of the roll ups, balancing the flavors beautifully. You can also add a side of vegetables, like roasted zucchini, steamed green beans, or oven-baked asparagus, for an extra dose of nutrition without sacrificing taste.
If you’re in the mood for something more heartier, pair the chicken roll ups with a side of garlic bread or roasted potatoes. A simple side of mashed potatoes also works well, as the creamy texture contrasts nicely with the crispy chicken roll ups. For a more filling meal, consider adding a cheesy pasta dish like macaroni and cheese or a baked ziti alongside the roll ups.
For a Mediterranean twist, you can serve the chicken with a side of couscous, quinoa, or rice pilaf. These grains offer a light and aromatic base that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and cheese. A dollop of tzatziki or a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice over the grains enhances the dish with refreshing and zesty flavors. Adding a few slices of pita bread and a simple Greek salad can transport the meal into a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
FAQs
Recipe
Chicken Roll-Ups with Ham and Cheese
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon parsley chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- Salt to taste
- 4 slices of ham
- ¼ cup cream cheese
Instructions
Prepare the chicken breasts:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Halve the chicken breasts horizontally to get 4 fillets. Lay the chicken fillets on a cutting board and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread one tablespoon of cream cheese on each chicken fillet evenly.
- Sprinkle some minced garlic and chopped parsley over the cream cheese.
- Add a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the garlic and parsley.
- Place a slice of ham on each fillet.
- Roll up each chicken fillet from one end, forming a roll. Secure each roll with a toothpick to keep it from unraveling.
- Place the roll-ups in a baking dish and pour a small amount of tomato sauce over them.
- Bake the roll-ups in the preheated oven for 20 minutes and then remove the dish from the oven.
- Pour more tomato sauce over the roll-ups and sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and melted.
- Remove the roll-ups from the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
thick. This will help them cook more evenly. Make sure to use heat-resistant toothpicks to secure the roll-ups. Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking that the
internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Add extra fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the filling for a more aromatic flavor. Sprinkle some grated Parmesan along with the mozzarella can add an extra layer of flavor
Nutrition
Equipment
- Meat mallet
- Heat-resistant toothpicks
- Baking dish
- Oven
- Small pouring cup or spoon
- Grater (optional)
- knife (optional)
- Meat thermometer