Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls

Introduction

Prepare to fall in love with a dish that effortlessly combines comfort, flavor, and a touch of culinary magic: Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts, lovingly pounded thin and seasoned to perfection, then wrapped around a savory, delectable stuffing. But the true pièce de résistance? A generous topping of bubbling, golden-brown cheese, studded with crispy bacon bits and fresh herbs, baked until every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes. This isn’t just dinner; it’s an experience, a warm embrace on a plate that promises to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

What makes these Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls so incredibly special? For starters, they’re surprisingly easy to make, transforming simple ingredients into an impressive meal that’s perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. They’re a fantastic way to elevate standard chicken breasts into something extraordinary, offering endless possibilities for customization to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner that everyone will devour or an elegant dish to impress guests, these rolls hit all the right notes. The combination of tender chicken, a flavorful interior, and that irresistible melted cheese topping creates a dish that’s both comforting and undeniably delicious.

At their heart, these rolls are all about tender chicken, a rich and savory stuffing, and a glorious, melted cheese topping that bakes to golden perfection. The process of pounding the chicken thin ensures quick and even cooking, while the stuffing, a delightful blend of cream cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic, and fresh herbs, adds a creamy, aromatic core. Then, a generous layer of shredded cheese, often a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for that perfect melt and stretch, along with crispy bacon bits and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, creates a visually stunning and incredibly tasty crust. The result is a dish that’s easy to prepare but looks and tastes like it came straight from a gourmet kitchen, making it a go-to recipe for anyone craving a truly satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximate values):

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 45g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sodium: 650mg

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 oz each)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs, plus 1/4 cup for topping
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnish
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (from 2-3 slices bacon), plus 2 tablespoons for topping
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for baking)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large zip-top bag. Using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan, pound the chicken breasts to an even 1/4-inch thickness. This ensures uniform cooking and makes them easier to roll.
3. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder. Sprinkle this seasoning evenly over both sides of the pounded chicken breasts.
4. Make the Stuffing: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives, minced garlic, 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
5. Assemble the Rolls: Lay one pounded chicken breast flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 1/4 of the stuffing mixture onto one end of the chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges. Carefully roll the chicken breast tightly from the stuffed end, tucking in the sides as you go, to create a compact roll. Secure the roll with one or two toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling during baking. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts and stuffing.
6. Sear the Rolls (Optional but Recommended): Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the chicken rolls seam-side down in the skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly golden brown. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and helps seal in the juices. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can sear in a regular skillet and then transfer to the baking dish.
7. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the seared chicken rolls to the prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. If desired, pour 1/4 cup of chicken broth around the bottom of the dish; this helps keep the chicken moist and creates a little pan sauce.
8. Add the Cheesy Topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, and the remaining 2 tablespoons bacon bits. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of each chicken roll.
9. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C) and the cheese topping is bubbly and golden brown. If the cheese isn’t as golden as you’d like, you can briefly place the dish under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
10. Rest and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rolls rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender and moist chicken. Garnish with additional fresh parsley or chives, if desired, and carefully remove the toothpicks before serving.

Cooking Tips and Variations

For truly perfect Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls, achieving an even thickness when pounding the chicken is crucial. Aim for about 1/4-inch across the entire breast. This ensures all parts cook at the same rate, preventing dry edges or undercooked centers. Don’t be shy with the meat mallet; a firm, even pressure is key. To secure the rolls, toothpicks are your best friend. Insert them horizontally through the roll, usually one or two per roll, to keep the stuffing nestled safely inside. If you’re concerned about them coming undone, a quick sear in a hot pan before baking can also help “glue” the seams together. For that irresistible golden crust on top, don’t be afraid to let the cheese get beautifully browned in the oven. If it’s not quite golden enough after the chicken is cooked through, a quick minute or two under the broiler can work wonders, but watch it like a hawk – cheese can go from perfect to burnt in seconds! These rolls are also fantastic for making ahead. You can fully assemble them, including the cheese topping, and refrigerate them, covered, for up to 24 hours. Just add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. When it comes to variations, the possibilities are endless! For the stuffing, try swapping the bacon for sautéed mushrooms and spinach, or add some sun-dried tomatoes and basil for a Mediterranean twist. Different cheeses can also transform the dish; think provolone, Gruyere, or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick. Serve these versatile rolls with creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or some roasted asparagus for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating

To store leftover Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls, allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze individual rolls by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw frozen rolls in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, the oven is your best bet for maintaining texture. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken rolls in an oven-safe dish, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it may take 30-40 minutes. For a quicker option, you can microwave individual rolls for 1-2 minutes, but be aware that the cheese topping may not be as crispy, and the chicken can sometimes dry out slightly. A toaster oven also works well for single servings, bringing back some crispness to the cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare these chicken rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! These Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls are excellent for meal prep. You can assemble them completely, including adding the cheese topping, and store them in the baking dish, covered tightly with plastic wrap, in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, simply remove from the fridge 15-20 minutes before baking and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the stuffing?

If you’re not a fan of cream cheese or don’t have any on hand, you can try using ricotta cheese for a lighter, slightly grainy texture, or even a blend of softened goat cheese for a tangier flavor. For a dairy-free option, a plant-based cream cheese alternative can work, though the texture might vary slightly.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to ensure your chicken rolls are cooked through and safe to eat is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken roll, avoiding the stuffing as much as possible. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also appear opaque throughout, and the juices should run clear.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, it’s very easy to make these Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls gluten-free. Simply substitute the plain breadcrumbs in both the stuffing and the topping with your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients, such as chicken broth and bacon bits, are also certified gluten-free if you have severe dietary restrictions.