If you are on the hunt for a delightful dish that’s both comforting and impressive, the Chicken Roll Outs Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. These tender, creamy, and savory chicken roll ups bring together the perfect blend of flavors—moist chicken wrapped around a luscious cheese and spinach filling, kissed with garlic and onion hints, and enhanced by savory ham or bacon. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe embraces simplicity and flavor, making every bite a moment to savor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is straightforward, but each one plays a vital role in creating the textures and flavors that make this dish so memorable. From the creamy cheeses to the savory ham slices, every component adds its own magic to the Chicken Roll Outs Recipe.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin): The base for your roll outs, thinly pounded to ensure even cooking and easy rolling.
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened): Adds a smooth, creamy texture that melds perfectly with the mozzarella.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully and provides a mild, cheesy flavor that balances the dish.
- 1/4 cup chopped spinach (fresh or thawed and drained if frozen): Gives a fresh burst of color and nutrition without overpowering the filling.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the filling with a gentle, aromatic punch.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic and enhances the savory profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- 8 slices thin deli ham or cooked bacon: Adds a salty, smoky layer wrapped within the chicken rolls.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for coating): Gives a crispy, golden exterior if you want a bit of crunch.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter: Helps achieve that irresistible golden finish when baked.
How to Make Chicken Roll Outs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure an easy cleanup. Setting the oven ahead of time helps streamline the cooking process once your chicken rolls are ready.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Filling
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, chopped spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the ingredients are well blended into a creamy, flavorful filling that will shine inside each chicken breast.
Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Roll Outs
Lay each pounded chicken breast flat on your work surface. Spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cheese and spinach mixture evenly over each one. Then, top with 1 to 2 slices of ham or bacon for that irresistible saltiness. Carefully roll each chicken breast up, keeping the filling inside. For extra security, use toothpicks if needed. This step is crucial for keeping those tastes perfectly wrapped!
Step 4: Optional Breadcrumb Coating
If you love a crunchy crust, roll each chicken roll in breadcrumbs before placing them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. This coating will add texture and help lock in moisture as the chicken bakes. If you prefer a gluten-free or low-carb option, feel free to skip this step.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the tops of the chicken rolls to promote a beautiful golden color during baking. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature that assures it is fully cooked and juicy. Once baked, let your Chicken Roll Outs Recipe rest for 5 minutes so the flavors settle and every bite is moist and tender.
How to Serve Chicken Roll Outs Recipe
Garnishes
Simplicity works wonders here. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous touch that complements the rich filling. For a little zing, a drizzle of balsamic glaze can brighten the plate perfectly.
Side Dishes
Since the Chicken Roll Outs Recipe is rich and flavorful, serving it alongside lighter sides balances the meal beautifully. Think garlic butter green beans, a crisp mixed salad, or even fluffy rice or pasta to soak up any delightful juices from the bake.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing each roll into medallions and arranging them on a platter for an elegant appetizer-style presentation. Alternatively, serve the whole roll with a fresh lemon wedge and grain mustard on the side for dipping to add a tangy contrast. Presentation can be playful and inviting!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken roll outs keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them intact or slice before storing to save time on the next meal.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked chicken roll outs by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to a month. To freeze cooked rolls, wrap each piece individually and freeze similarly; thaw before reheating.
Reheating
For reheating, warm leftover rolls covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes to maintain moisture and heat evenly. Microwaving is quicker but might sacrifice some crispness if you used breadcrumbs.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach in this Chicken Roll Outs Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture so the filling doesn’t become watery. Fresh is great, but frozen spinach works perfectly too.
What if I don’t have ham or bacon on hand?
You can swap ham or bacon for thin slices of prosciutto, turkey bacon, or even omit it for a vegetarian-friendly twist with extra veggies in the filling.
Is there a low-carb option for this recipe?
Yes! Simply skip the breadcrumbs coating, and your Chicken Roll Outs Recipe remains tender and flavorful without the added carbohydrates.
Can I prepare these in advance for a dinner party?
Definitely. Assemble the roll outs, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes hosting much easier and keeps your guests impressed.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The safest method is to use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear, and the exterior should be nicely golden.
Final Thoughts
Cooking the Chicken Roll Outs Recipe is like opening the door to a world of comforting flavors and simple elegance. It’s a dish that truly brings people together around the table and makes every meal feel special. I encourage you to give it a try soon—you’ll find it becoming a cherished favorite that’s easy to prepare but spectacular to savor.
Print
Chicken Roll Outs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Chicken Roll Outs are a delicious and easy-to-make main course featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy spinach and cheese filling, wrapped with ham or bacon, and baked to golden perfection. This dish combines rich flavors and a satisfying texture, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Filling
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin)
- 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped spinach (fresh or thawed and drained if frozen)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices thin deli ham or cooked bacon
Coating and Finishing
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for coating)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking during baking.
- Prepare Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, chopped spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well blended to create a creamy and flavorful filling.
- Assemble Chicken Rolls: Lay the pounded thin chicken breasts flat on a clean surface. Spread 2 to 3 tablespoons of the cheese and spinach mixture evenly onto each piece of chicken.
- Add Ham or Bacon: Place 1 to 2 slices of deli ham or cooked bacon on top of the cheese filling on each chicken breast.
- Roll and Secure: Carefully roll up each chicken breast tightly around the filling. Use toothpicks to secure the edges if necessary to keep the roll intact during cooking.
- Optional Breadcrumb Coating: If using breadcrumbs, gently roll each chicken roll in the breadcrumbs until evenly coated, then place them seam-side down in the greased baking dish.
- Drizzle Oil or Butter: Drizzle the tops of the chicken rolls with olive oil or melted butter to promote browning and add flavor.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the tops are golden brown.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rolls rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before serving.
Notes
- You can customize the filling by adding herbs, sautéed mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- For a low-carb or gluten-free version, omit the breadcrumbs or use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Pair the chicken roll outs with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad to complete the meal.
