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Chicken Roll Ups

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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.

A wooden spoon lifts a portion of cheesy baked chicken from a glass baking dish.

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

Ingredients on a marble surface: chicken breasts, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, ham slices, garlic, parsley, cream, salt, and pepper in separate bowls.

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:

  • Meat mallet
  • Heat-resistant toothpicks
  • Baking dish
  • Oven
  • Small pouring cup or spoon
  • Grater (optional)
  • Knife (optional)
  • Meat thermometer

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.

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.

Two raw chicken breasts on a wooden cutting board placed on a marble surface.

Halve the chicken breasts horizontally to get 4 fillets.

Two raw chicken breasts on a wooden cutting board with a hand holding a small bowl of salt above them.

Lay the chicken fillets on a cutting board. You can flatten more with a mallet, if desired.

A hand holds a small glass bowl of ground pepper above two seasoned chicken breasts on a wooden cutting board.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

A hand holds a white bowl of cream cheese above two seasoned chicken breasts on a wooden cutting board.

Spread one tablespoon of cream cheese on each chicken fillet evenly.

A hand holding a small bowl of minced garlic above two pieces of chicken coated with a white sauce on a wooden board.

Sprinkle some minced garlic over the cream cheese.

Two chicken breasts on a wooden board are spread with cream sauce. A hand holds a small bowl of chopped green herbs above them.

Then sprinkle on chopped parsley.

A hand holds a white bowl filled with grated cheese over a wooden cutting board.

Add a small amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the garlic and parsley.

Two slices of bread on a wooden board topped with grated cheese and layers of ham.

Place a slice of ham on top.

Two uncooked chicken breasts stuffed with ham and cheese, secured with toothpicks, placed on a wooden cutting board.

Roll up each chicken fillet from one end, forming a roll. Secure each roll with a toothpick to keep it from unraveling.

Three raw chicken breasts are rolled and secured with toothpicks in a glass dish on a marble countertop.

Place the roll-ups in a backing dish.

A hand holds a bowl of red sauce over a plate with three uncooked, seasoned chicken breasts secured with toothpicks, on a marble surface.

Pour a small amount of tomato sauce over the roll-ups. Bake the roll-ups in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

A hand pouring tomato sauce over stuffed peppers in a glass baking dish on a cooling rack.

After 20 minutes, remove the dish from the oven. Pour more tomato sauce over the roll-ups.

Four stuffed tomatoes topped with grated cheese in a glass baking dish on a marble and wire rack background.

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.

A hand holding chopped herbs over a dish of cheesy pizza rolls on a wire rack.

Remove the roll-ups from the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley on top.

Baked stuffed tomatoes topped with melted cheese and herbs in a glass dish on a striped surface.

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.

A glass baking dish with baked cheesy stuffed chicken breasts garnished with tomato sauce and parsley.

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.

Oval dish with four stuffed bell peppers topped with melted cheese and parsley, placed on a wooden board. Parsley sprigs on the side.

FAQs

Yes! Chicken roll-ups can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble them, place them in an airtight container, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready to cook, bake or fry them as directed, adding a few extra minutes if cooking straight from the fridge.

Insert 1–2 toothpicks through the edges to hold them in place. Or, tie the roll-ups securely with Butcher’s twine before cooking. For added security, ensure the seam side is placed down when baking or frying, and avoid overstuffing.

To make this recipe healthier, you can use low-fat cheese, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt, and opt for leaner cuts of chicken, such as chicken tenderloins or skinless chicken breasts. Additionally, you can skip the ham or replace it with a plant-based alternative.

Recipe

Baked stuffed chicken breasts topped with melted cheese and tomato sauce in a glass dish, garnished with parsley.

Chicken Roll-Ups with Ham and Cheese

Learn how to make delicious chicken roll ups with cheesy, savory fillings for a satisfying meal the whole family will love. Perfect for any occasion!
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 474 kcal

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

You can experiment with other types of cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, or provolone, to vary the flavor. For a lighter option, consider using low-fat mozzarella cheese.
If you prefer a healthier option, you can use turkey breasts instead of chicken.
You can use Alfredo sauce or pesto sauce instead of tomato sauce for a change of flavor.
Use a meat mallet to flatten the chicken breasts if they are too
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

Calories: 474kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 47gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 159mgSodium: 1262mgPotassium: 765mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1048IUVitamin C: 7mgCalcium: 388mgIron: 2mg

Equipment

  • Meat mallet
  • Heat-resistant toothpicks
  • Baking dish
  • Oven
  • Small pouring cup or spoon
  • Grater (optional)
  • knife (optional)
  • Meat thermometer
Keyword cheese, chicken, ham
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