Are you ready for a dish that combines rich flavors and simple ingredients? In this post, I’ll show you how to make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Roll Ups. This delightful recipe will be a hit at dinner and impress your family and friends. With just a few key steps, you’ll enjoy tender chicken filled with creamy goodness. Let’s dive into this easy and tasty recipe that everyone will love!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients List
– Chicken breasts
– Cream cheese
– Parmesan cheese
– Garlic (minced and powder)
– Italian seasoning
– Spinach leaves
– Sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
– Olive oil
– Chicken broth
– Salt and pepper
For this dish, I use two large chicken breasts. Pounding them thin makes rolling easier. Next, I soften one cup of cream cheese. It blends well with half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Three cloves of minced garlic and one teaspoon of garlic powder add a big flavor punch. Italian seasoning gives it that extra boost.
I love adding fresh spinach leaves for color and taste. If you like, toss in a quarter cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet bite. For cooking, I use one tablespoon of olive oil and half a cup of chicken broth. Salt and pepper round out the flavor.
Cooking Tools Required
– Mixing bowl
– Cutting board
– Baking dish
– Skillet
– Toothpicks (optional)
You’ll need a mixing bowl to combine the cheese and spices. A cutting board is great for prepping the chicken. Use a baking dish to cook the roll-ups. A skillet is perfect for searing them before baking. Toothpicks come in handy for holding the rolls together.
Suggested Garnishes
– Fresh parsley
Fresh parsley is my go-to garnish. It adds a nice pop of color and a hint of freshness. You can sprinkle it on top right before serving. It makes the dish look fancy and inviting!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This helps cook the chicken evenly. Grease a baking dish with a bit of olive oil. This keeps the roll-ups from sticking.
2. Mixing the cheese filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and 3 minced garlic cloves. Add 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until you have a smooth and creamy filling.
3. Preparing the chicken breasts
Take your two large chicken breasts and pound them thin. This makes it easier to roll them up. Lay them flat on a cutting board. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over each breast.
Cooking Instructions
1. Spreading the filling and assembling the roll-ups
Place a few spinach leaves on top of the cheese mixture. If you like, add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Roll each chicken breast from the thin end to the thick end. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
2. Searing the chicken roll-ups
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sear each roll-up for about 2-3 minutes per side. You want them golden brown for extra flavor.
3. Baking in the oven
Transfer the chicken roll-ups to your greased baking dish. Pour 1/2 cup of chicken broth over them. This keeps the chicken moist as it bakes. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check that the chicken is no longer pink inside.
Final Touch
1. Resting and garnish before serving
Once baked, let the roll-ups rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices in. Remove any toothpicks and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Now, you’re ready to serve this delightful dish!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To pound chicken breasts evenly, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound them until they’re about 1/2 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
To avoid dryness in chicken roll-ups, do not overcook them. Bake just until the chicken is no longer pink. Also, adding chicken broth while baking keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
Flavor Enhancements
Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the cheese filling. You can also mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
For sauces, consider a creamy Alfredo or a rich marinara. Both pair well with the flavors of garlic and cheese in the roll-ups.
Presentation Suggestions
For plating, place the chicken roll-ups on a bed of sautéed spinach. This makes the dish look vibrant and inviting.
For sides, serve with roasted vegetables or a light salad. These balance the richness of the roll-ups and add freshness to your meal.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can easily switch up the cheese in these roll-ups. Instead of cream cheese, try ricotta or goat cheese. Both add a lovely taste. You can also use mozzarella for a melty twist.
Feel free to play with the fillings. Spinach is great, but you can add other veggies, too. Try bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. For meat lovers, you can include cooked bacon or ham. These swaps make the dish your own.
Cooking Methods
If you want a quicker option, use an air fryer. Preheat it to 375°F. Cook the roll-ups for about 15-20 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through. The air fryer gives a crispy outside.
You can also adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Brown the roll-ups in the pot first. Then, add the chicken broth and cook on high pressure for about 8-10 minutes. This method keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
Dietary Modifications
Looking for gluten-free options? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to coat the chicken if you want a crunch. You can also skip the breading altogether and still enjoy a tasty meal.
For low-carb variations, focus on veggies. Skip any high-carb fillings like sun-dried tomatoes. Instead, pack the roll-ups with spinach and mushrooms. This keeps the dish healthy and satisfying.
Storage Info
Best Storage Practices
To keep your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Roll Ups fresh, refrigerate them promptly. Place the roll-ups in an airtight container. This method seals in flavor and keeps them moist. Make sure they cool to room temperature before sealing. If you want to freeze them, wrap each roll-up in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer-safe bag. This keeps them safe from freezer burn.
Reheating Instructions
To enjoy leftover roll-ups, the best method is to reheat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the roll-ups in a baking dish and cover them with foil. This helps keep moisture in and prevents drying out. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warm. You can also use a microwave, but it may change the texture. If you choose the microwave, heat in short bursts and cover with a damp paper towel.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your chicken roll-ups will last about 3-4 days. After that, they may spoil. Always check for off smells or discoloration before eating. If you see any signs of spoilage, it’s best to toss them. When in doubt, throw it out!
FAQs
Common Questions
– Can I make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Roll Ups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare these roll-ups a day in advance. Just follow the recipe until baking. Cover them and place them in the fridge. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
– Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, goat cheese, or even feta. Each cheese will add a unique flavor to your roll-ups.
– How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Check the chicken with a meat thermometer. It should reach 165°F (75°C). The meat should also be white and no longer pink inside.
Serving Questions
– What sides pair well with this dish?
Serve these roll-ups with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies. They add nice colors and flavors to your meal.
– Can I serve this as an appetizer?
Yes! Cut the roll-ups into smaller pieces. They make a great finger food for parties or gatherings.
Ingredient-Specific Questions
– Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
You can use ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt. Both will give a creamy texture and taste.
– What’s the best way to cut sun-dried tomatoes?
Use kitchen scissors to cut them easily. This method helps avoid a mess and gives you nice-sized pieces for your roll-ups.
This blog post covered the key ingredients and steps for your Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Roll-Ups. We discussed preparing the filling, cooking methods, and useful tips to enhance flavor. You now have variations to suit dietary needs and storage tips for leftovers. Remember to enjoy the cooking process and get creative with flavors. These roll-ups make a delicious meal or appetizer. Happy cooking, and enjoy your tasty creation!
