This Easy Cheesy Chicken Rollatini is like a warm hug on a plate! It features tender chicken rolled around cheese and herbs, then baked until bubbly and golden. Yum!
You know what’s great? It’s simple to make! Just roll, bake, and enjoy. I usually serve it with pasta or a fresh salad for a lovely dinner. Perfect for impressing guests—or just treating yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect for this recipe. If you’re looking for something lower in fat, you can use turkey cutlets. They’ll cook in a similar way!
Cheeses: Mozzarella gives that melty goodness while Parmesan adds a nice salty kick. If you’re out of one, try Gouda for mozzarella or Pecorino Romano for Parmesan. Both work well!
Cream Cheese: It adds creaminess to the filling. If you’re avoiding dairy, a vegan cream cheese might work as a substitute. I’ve sometimes used ricotta for a different texture; it’s lighter!
Basil: Fresh basil is fantastic here, but dried basil will work in a pinch. If you want an extra punch of flavor, you can try using spinach or arugula instead.
How Do I Get the Chicken Sweet and Juicy without Drying It Out?
Pounding the chicken to an even thickness is essential. This ensures even cooking and prevents drying out. Here’s how to do it right:
- Lay the chicken between plastic wrap to prevent mess.
- Use a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound until about 1/4 inch thick.
- Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Cooking the chicken in an oven-safe skillet helps it stay juicy. Searing it first locks in moisture before it bakes. Make sure your oven temperature is right—too hot can dry it out, while too low may not cook it through.
Happy cooking! Enjoy your delicious Chicken Rollatini!
Easy Cheesy Chicken Rollatini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus some whole leaves for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Optional: red pepper flakes, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe requires about 15-20 minutes of prep time and 30-35 minutes of cooking time. You’ll be ready to enjoy a delicious meal in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Lay the chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap or parchment paper. With a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound each chicken breast until they’re about 1/4 inch thick. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for added flavor.
3. Make the Cheesy Filling:
In a medium bowl, mix together the mozzarella, Parmesan, cream cheese, minced garlic, and chopped basil. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
4. Fill and Roll the Chicken:
Spoon an equal amount of the cheesy filling onto each flattened chicken breast. Roll each breast tightly, and secure the ends with toothpicks if needed to keep the filling from escaping.
5. Sear the Rollatini:
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the chicken rollatini and sear them until they are golden brown on all sides—about 3 minutes per side.
6. Prepare the Sauce:
While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the heavy cream and chicken broth in a separate bowl. Once the chicken is browned, pour this creamy mixture over the rollatini in the skillet.
7. Bake the Dish:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the sauce is bubbling.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, remove any toothpicks holding the chicken together. Plate the rollatini and spoon some of the creamy sauce over the top. Finish off with extra Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of black pepper and red pepper flakes, if desired.
9. Enjoy!
Serve hot with your favorite side like pasta, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your rich, creamy, and cheesy Chicken Rollatini!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Chicken Rollatini
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well for this recipe and can add extra flavor. Keep in mind that they may need a slightly longer cooking time due to their thickness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To lighten it up, you can use less cheese or opt for low-fat cheese alternatives. Additionally, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a healthier filling without sacrificing creaminess.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute heavy cream with a mixture of milk and melted butter (about 1/2 cup milk with 2 tablespoons melted butter) or use a plant-based cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream if needed to freshen the sauce!
