Stuffed Chicken Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed Chicken Rolls are a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The chicken is tender and juicy, while the stuffing adds a deliciously creamy and savory touch. This recipe is customizable to your liking, whether you prefer a classic spinach and cheese filling or want to experiment with other fillings like sun-dried tomatoes, bacon, or even mushrooms. It’s a perfect dish to serve for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup spinach, chopped (fresh or frozen)

• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for coating)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)

• Toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure rolls

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Use a sharp knife to carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket for the filling, being sure not to cut all the way through.

3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.

4. Stuff each chicken breast with a generous amount of the cheese mixture, then carefully roll the chicken up, securing the ends with toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the filling inside.

5. If you prefer a crispy coating, roll each stuffed chicken breast in breadcrumbs to coat the outside.

6. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken rolls and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.

7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

8. Remove the toothpicks or kitchen twine before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. The preparation time is about 10-15 minutes, with a cooking time of 25-30 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken breasts.

Variations

• Add bacon: For an extra savory touch, add crispy bacon to the filling or wrap the stuffed chicken rolls in bacon before baking.

• Substitute spinach: Try using other leafy greens, like kale or Swiss chard, in place of spinach.

• Add sun-dried tomatoes: Sun-dried tomatoes make a flavorful addition to the stuffing for a Mediterranean twist.

• Use different cheeses: Swap the mozzarella for provolone, cheddar, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the stuffing for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

• To store: Place any leftover stuffed chicken rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• To reheat: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or place in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. They may need a slightly longer cooking time due to their thickness.

2. Can I make these stuffed chicken rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken rolls up to a day ahead and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just be sure to sear and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze these stuffed chicken rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the prepared, uncooked stuffed chicken rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

4. Can I use store-bought chicken cutlets for this recipe?

Yes, using thinly sliced chicken cutlets can save time. Simply skip the step of slicing the chicken and proceed with the stuffing and rolling.

5. How can I make these rolls more flavorful?

You can enhance the flavor by adding additional seasonings such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika to the chicken or filling.

6. How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.

7. Can I add more vegetables to the stuffing?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or zucchini to the stuffing mixture for added flavor and texture.

8. How can I make these rolls crispy?

For a crispy exterior, coat the stuffed chicken rolls with breadcrumbs or panko before searing and baking. Alternatively, you can broil them for a minute or two at the end to crisp up the crust.

9. Can I use low-fat cream cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute low-fat or fat-free cream cheese if you’re looking for a lighter version of this dish. It may affect the richness, but the flavors will still be delicious.

10. What side dishes go well with Stuffed Chicken Rolls?

Stuffed Chicken Rolls pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a fresh salad. For a lighter option, try pairing it with steamed broccoli or a quinoa salad.

Conclusion

Stuffed Chicken Rolls are a flavorful and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. With tender chicken, a creamy, cheesy filling, and endless customization options, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, these chicken rolls will quickly become a go-to meal in your cooking repertoire.