Chicken Roll-Ups: Easy, Cheesy, and Delicious

If you’re looking for a savory, easy-to-make dish that combines flavor, convenience, and satisfaction, then Chicken Roll-Ups are the perfect solution. These delectable treats are filled with a variety of mouthwatering ingredients, making them ideal for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep. Whether you’re a fan of Southwest Chicken Roll Ups, Chicken Prosciutto Roll Ups, or prefer the creamy indulgence of Chicken Cream Cheese Roll Ups, there’s a variation for everyone.

This article will explore different types of chicken roll ups, including baked chicken roll ups, cheesy chicken roll ups, and even chicken potato rolls. Additionally, we’ll provide detailed step-by-step instructions for making these delicious dishes, tips on how to perfect your rolls, and some creative variations to suit your taste. So, get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into these amazing chicken roll ups recipes.

What Are Chicken Roll-Ups?

Chicken roll-ups are a versatile dish that involves rolling up thin slices of chicken breast around various fillings, such as cheese, vegetables, or meat, and then baking or pan-frying them. These rolls are typically seasoned to perfection, giving them a crispy or golden exterior with a tender, flavorful interior. The beauty of chicken rolls is that they can be customized in many ways, from chicken cheese roll-ups to more elaborate versions like chicken prosciutto roll-ups or southwest chicken roll-ups.

These roll-ups can be baked in the oven or cooked on the stovetop, making them a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The added fillings such as cream cheese, mozzarella, or even prosciutto create layers of flavor that transform a simple chicken breast into an unforgettable meal.

Ingredients for Chicken Roll-Ups

To create a perfect batch of chicken roll ups, you’ll need a few essential ingredients. Depending on the type of roll-up you’re preparing, some ingredients may vary, but here’s a general list for creating your own version of chicken breast rolls recipes:

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for searing)

For the Fillings:

1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried herbs (such as oregano or basil)

For the Chicken Prosciutto Roll-Ups:

4 slices prosciutto
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added tang)
Fresh spinach leaves (optional, for added flavor)

For the Southwest Chicken Roll-Ups:

1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1/2 cup corn kernels
1 tablespoon taco seasoning (or chili powder and cumin)
Sour cream (for dipping or drizzling)

How to Make Chicken Roll-Ups: Step-by-Step Instructions

Making chicken roll-ups is easier than you might think, and the result is always a hit. Follow these simple instructions for a tasty and fulfilling meal.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Pound the Chicken: Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken until it’s an even thickness, about 1/2 inch thick. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and makes it easier to roll.
Season the Chicken: Once the chicken is flattened, season both sides with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you prefer. If you’re making southwest chicken roll-ups, you can add a bit of taco seasoning or cumin to give it a flavorful twist.

Step 2: Prepare the Fillings

While the chicken is being prepared, take the time to get your fillings ready. Here’s how to prepare a few of the most popular fillings for your chicken cheese roll-ups or chicken prosciutto roll-ups:

Cheese and Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, shredded cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and smooth. You can add fresh herbs like basil or oregano for an extra flavor boost.
Southwest Chicken Roll-Ups: For a southwest-inspired filling, combine black beans, corn kernels, and taco seasoning in a small bowl. Stir well and set aside.
Chicken Prosciutto Roll-Ups: Lay a slice of prosciutto on top of each chicken breast. If you want an extra flavor layer, you can spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the prosciutto, and top it with a few leaves of fresh spinach. The prosciutto adds a salty, savory touch that complements the tender chicken.

Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Roll-Ups

Once your fillings are ready and your chicken is seasoned, it’s time to assemble the roll-ups.

Add the Filling: Spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture or southwest filling onto each flattened chicken breast. If you’re using prosciutto, simply place a slice on top of the chicken. Be sure to leave a little space around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Roll Up the Chicken: Carefully roll up the chicken breast, ensuring that the filling stays inside. If necessary, you can use toothpicks to secure the ends of the roll, but be sure to remove them before serving.
Secure with Toothpicks (Optional): For chicken prosciutto roll-ups, securing the edges with toothpicks will help keep the prosciutto in place while cooking. You can also use string to tie the rolls, but this step is optional.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Roll-Ups

Once the roll-ups are assembled, it’s time to cook them. You can choose to bake chicken roll-ups in the oven or cook them on the stovetop for a crispy exterior.

Baked Chicken Roll-Ups:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the chicken roll-ups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). The baked chicken roll-ups will be golden and slightly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy inside.
Pan-Fried Chicken Roll-Ups:
- Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the chicken roll-ups in the pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning until golden brown on the outside and cooked through. If needed, cover the pan with a lid to help cook the chicken evenly. Make sure the rolls are cooked all the way through by checking the internal temperature.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once your cheesy chicken roll-ups are cooked, remove them from the oven or skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and ensures they stay moist. Remove any toothpicks or strings, slice them, and serve immediately.

Creative Variations for Chicken Roll-Ups

The great thing about chicken roll-ups is their versatility. You can change the fillings based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some creative variations to try:

1. Chicken Potato Rolls

For a comforting twist, try making chicken potato rolls. Instead of using cheese and cream cheese, stuff the chicken with a mixture of mashed potatoes, sautéed onions, and a sprinkle of cheese. These hearty rolls are perfect for a filling dinner and can be served with a side of gravy or a fresh salad.

2. Cheesy Chicken Roll-Ups

For a gooey, cheesy delight, use your favorite cheese—such as mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend—along with cream cheese for extra creaminess. You can also add spinach or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

3. Chicken Prosciutto Roll-Ups

For a more gourmet version, prosciutto and cheese make an irresistible combination. Try wrapping the chicken with prosciutto, adding some fresh rosemary or sage, and stuffing it with mozzarella or Parmesan. This version is perfect for a special dinner.

4. Southwest Chicken Roll-Ups

For a Southwest chicken roll-up, stuff your chicken with a blend of black beans, corn, cheddar cheese, and a bit of sour cream. Add a sprinkle of taco seasoning or chili powder to enhance the flavor. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.

5. Chicken Cream Cheese Roll-Ups

For a rich, creamy filling, cream cheese works wonders. You can make a simple cream cheese chicken roll-up by mixing cream cheese with garlic, herbs, and cheddar. This variation pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or a side salad for a balanced meal.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Roll-Ups

To ensure your chicken breast rolls recipes turn out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:

Pound the Chicken Evenly: To ensure that the chicken cooks evenly, make sure you pound it to an even thickness. This allows the roll-ups to cook more consistently and prevents dry edges.
Use Toothpicks or Kitchen Twine: For more delicate fillings, using toothpicks or kitchen twine will help hold the roll-up together while cooking. This is especially important for chicken prosciutto roll-ups to keep the prosciutto in place.
Choose the Right Filling: The beauty of chicken roll-ups is that you can get creative with your fillings. Try to balance rich, creamy ingredients (like cream cheese or cheese) with lighter or flavorful options like vegetables or herbs to keep the rolls from being too heavy.
Don’t Overstuff: When assembling the rolls, be sure not to overstuff them. A generous spoonful of filling is usually enough to provide flavor without making the roll difficult to close or cook evenly.
Cook to the Right Temperature: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (75°C), ensuring that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

Conclusion

Chicken roll-ups are a versatile, easy-to-make dish that can be customized in countless ways to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy the creamy indulgence of chicken cream cheese roll-ups, the savory elegance of chicken prosciutto roll-ups, or the bold flavors of southwest chicken roll-ups, these delicious rolls will never disappoint.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, cheesy chicken roll-ups and their variations can be baked or pan-fried to golden perfection. With simple ingredients like puff pastry sheets, cheese, and herbs, chicken breast rolls recipes provide endless possibilities for flavor and creativity.

Next time you’re looking for a quick, flavorful meal, try making chicken roll-ups—a dish that’s as easy as it is delicious.