Chef Mitchell preparing Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I first discovered Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups during my travels in the Mediterranean. The combination of fresh herbs and creamy cheese in a tender chicken wrap was unforgettable. After experimenting multiple times in my kitchen, I perfected this recipe to bring that authentic taste home. It's now a family favorite that I love to share with friends."

With over a decade of experience in Mediterranean cuisine, my passion lies in creating vibrant and delicious dinner recipes. I've traveled extensively, gathering inspiration from local flavors and techniques. My goal is to make Mediterranean cooking accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups served on a plate

Why This Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe Works

This recipe stands out because of its harmonious blend of fresh herbs and rich cheeses, creating a delightful filling. The combination of chicken and cheese provides a satisfying and protein-rich meal that is also comforting. The use of breadcrumbs adds a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken.

The technique of searing the chicken before baking helps to lock in moisture while adding flavor. By preparing the filling with fresh ingredients, you ensure that every bite bursts with flavor. This method not only elevates the dish but also makes it visually appealing when served.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, use fresh herbs and high-quality cheeses. If you can, make the filling a few hours in advance and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish. Additionally, make sure the chicken is pounded evenly to ensure even cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the roll-ups ahead of time. Simply assemble them, then cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining guests. Just allow extra time for baking if they are coming straight from the refrigerator.

If you don't have ricotta cheese, you can substitute it with cottage cheese or cream cheese. For a lighter option, Greek yogurt can also work well. Just make sure to adjust any additional seasoning to maintain the flavor balance.

The Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups are done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check this. Additionally, the chicken should be golden brown and the cheese should be melted and bubbly.

Yes, Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups freeze well. To freeze, assemble them, but do not bake. Wrap each roll securely in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups pair beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. A side of garlic bread or couscous can complement the dish as well. For a Mediterranean touch, consider serving with tzatziki sauce for dipping.

When stored properly in an airtight container, Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups can last in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat thoroughly before consuming to ensure food safety.

Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the roll-ups a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate. This makes for easier meal planning, especially when hosting guests or during busy weeknights.

The best way to reheat Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups is to place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain the crispy exterior. You can cover them with foil to prevent drying out during reheating.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

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Too Dry

Problem: If your chicken roll-ups are coming out too dry, you might be overcooking them or using chicken that is too lean.

Solution: To prevent dryness, ensure you don't cook the roll-ups longer than necessary. Using chicken thighs instead of breasts can also add moisture since they have more fat.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the roll-ups aren't as crispy as you'd like, it may be due to insufficient breadcrumbs or not searing them properly.

Solution: Make sure to coat the roll-ups evenly with breadcrumbs and ensure they are seared in a hot skillet for a golden, crispy exterior.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked chicken roll-ups can become tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and remove them from the oven as soon as they reach 165°F (75°C).

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the centers of the roll-ups are undercooked, they may not have been baked long enough.

Recovery: If you find the centers undercooked, cover the roll-ups with foil and return them to the oven for a few more minutes while checking the temperature again.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the exterior of the roll-ups is burnt but the inside is undercooked, the oven temperature may be too high.

Prevention: Reduce the oven temperature and bake for a longer time, ensuring that the heat is evenly distributed throughout the dish.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If the dish is too salty, adding a bit of sugar or unsweetened yogurt can help neutralize the saltiness.

Bland: If the roll-ups are bland, try adding more herbs and spices to the filling or serving with a zesty sauce.

Fresh ingredients for Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups

Essential Ingredients for Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups

The key ingredients for Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups include lean chicken breast, fresh spinach, and a blend of ricotta and feta cheeses. These ingredients work together to create a flavorful filling that complements the chicken perfectly. Fresh herbs like parsley and basil enhance the taste and aroma of the dish, making every bite delightful.

Using high-quality ingredients is vital in this recipe. Fresh vegetables and cheeses will provide the best flavor and texture, while organic chicken ensures a healthier meal. Take the time to select the best ingredients, as they will make a noticeable difference in the final dish.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Choose high-quality, organic chicken breast for the best flavor and tenderness. Look for pieces that are plump and have a pale color. Pounding the chicken to an even thickness will help it cook uniformly and remain juicy.
  • Ricotta Cheese: Opt for fresh ricotta cheese, preferably from a local dairy if available. It should be creamy and moist, which will contribute to a rich filling. Avoid dry or overly processed ricotta, as it won’t blend well with the other ingredients.
  • Fresh Herbs: Using fresh herbs like parsley and basil is crucial for the flavor profile of this dish. Always choose vibrant, green herbs with no wilting or browning. A quick rinse and pat dry will help preserve their freshness before mixing them into the filling.
Cooking process for Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups involves several straightforward steps. Start by preparing your filling, which is a mix of cheeses and fresh herbs. After assembling the roll-ups, they are pan-seared to lock in moisture and then baked with marinara sauce for added flavor. This method ensures the chicken remains juicy while providing a crispy exterior.

To achieve perfect results, pay attention to the cooking time and temperature. Using a thermometer to check for doneness will help prevent overcooking. The combination of flavors develops beautifully during the baking process, so allowing them to bake until bubbly and golden is key.

Key Technique for Perfect Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups

The most important technique in making Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups is ensuring even cooking by pounding the chicken to a uniform thickness. This helps the chicken cook evenly and remain tender. Additionally, searing the roll-ups before baking creates a delicious crust that enhances texture and flavor.

Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
    For topping
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
    Shredded
  • 2 tbsp fresh herbs
    For garnish

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken breast
    Thinly sliced
  • 1 cup spinach
    Chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese
    Crumbled
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley
    Chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil
    Chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
    For searing

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven

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

  2. Prepare the Filling

    In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, feta cheese, spinach, parsley, basil, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.

  3. Fill the Chicken

    Take each chicken slice and place a spoonful of the filling at one end, then roll it up tightly.

  4. Secure the Rolls

    Use toothpicks to secure the rolls, making sure the filling stays inside.

  5. Coat in Breadcrumbs

    Dip each roll in breadcrumbs to coat evenly.

  6. Sear the Rolls

    In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken rolls until golden brown on all sides.

  7. Transfer to Baking Dish

    Place the seared rolls in a baking dish, cover with marinara sauce, and sprinkle mozzarella on top.

  8. Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.

  9. Garnish and Serve

    Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve hot.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last for up to 3-4 days. If you have leftover roll-ups, consider reheating them in the oven to maintain their texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Herbed Chicken Roll-Ups with a side of fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an added Mediterranean flair, pair them with tzatziki sauce or a Mediterranean grain salad.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize the filling by adding different vegetables like roasted red peppers or zucchini. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add spices for a bit of heat, such as crushed red pepper flakes.