There’s something truly magical about cutting into a perfectly baked mozzarella chicken roll and watching that gooey cheese stretch from your plate. These delicious bundles of joy combine tender chicken breasts, melty mozzarella, and flavorful additions like spinach and herbs for a dinner that looks impressive but is surprisingly simple to make.
I still remember the first time I made baked mozzarella chicken rolls for my family. The kitchen filled with an irresistible aroma of garlic and herbs, and when I pulled that golden-brown baking dish from the oven, everyone gathered around with wide eyes and rumbling stomachs. The moment we cut into those juicy chicken rolls, revealing the stretchy mozzarella and vibrant spinach inside, I knew this recipe would become a regular in our dinner rotation.
What makes these chicken roll ups with mozzarella so special is their versatility and crowd-pleasing nature. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, planning a romantic meal, or simply trying to elevate your weeknight dinner game, these rolls deliver restaurant-quality results without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about creating perfect baked mozzarella chicken rolls every time. From choosing the best ingredients to mastering the rolling technique, plus creative variations and serving suggestions that will take this dish to the next level. By the time you finish reading, you’ll be ready to create this showstopping meal in your own kitchen.
Let’s dive into the world of mozzarella stuffed chicken and discover why this dish deserves a spot in your recipe collection!
Why You’ll Love These Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of making these delicious baked mozzarella chicken rolls, let me tell you why this recipe is about to become your new favorite:
Impressive Without the Stress
These chicken roll ups with mozzarella look like something from a fancy Italian restaurant, but don’t let their elegant appearance fool you. The preparation is straightforward enough for beginner cooks. The most technical skill you’ll need is pounding chicken breasts thin, and I’ll walk you through exactly how to do that with minimal mess and effort.
Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best things about mozzarella stuffed chicken is how versatile it is. Need a quick but satisfying Tuesday night dinner? These rolls have you covered. Planning a dinner party that will impress your friends? Serve these baked mozzarella chicken rolls with a side of pasta and a nice salad, and watch as your guests rave about your culinary skills.
Customizable to Your Taste
While the classic combination of mozzarella, spinach, and marinara is divine, these chicken roll ups with mozzarella are endlessly adaptable. Love pesto? Try making baked mozzarella chicken rolls with pesto. Prefer different cheeses or veggies? The possibilities are nearly endless, and I’ll share some of my favorite variations later in this article.
Meal-Prep Friendly
In our busy lives, make-ahead meals are worth their weight in gold. These baked chicken rolls stuffed with mozzarella and spinach can be prepped in advance and baked when you’re ready to eat. I’ll show you exactly how to store them for maximum freshness and flavor.
Relatively Healthy Comfort Food
Unlike many comfort food favorites that leave you feeling sluggish, these mozzarella stuffed chicken rolls pack lean protein, vegetables, and calcium-rich cheese. With some simple swaps (which I’ll detail below), you can make this dish even more nutritious without sacrificing an ounce of flavor.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls
Creating stellar baked mozzarella chicken rolls starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the classic version:
The Star: Chicken Breasts
For this recipe, you’ll want boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Look for breasts that are similar in size for even cooking. About 2 pounds (usually 4 large breasts) will serve 4-6 people, depending on appetite. The quality of your chicken matters here since it’s the foundation of the dish. If possible, opt for free-range, organic chicken for the best flavor and texture.
The Gooey Goodness: Cheese
Two types of cheese create the perfect balance in these mozzarella stuffed chicken rolls:
- Fresh mozzarella: This provides that Instagram-worthy cheese pull and mild, milky flavor. You can use either fresh mozzarella pearls or a larger ball sliced into pieces.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling together. Part-skim ricotta works perfectly, but whole milk ricotta will give you a richer result.
The Flavorful Fillings
- Fresh spinach: Provides color, nutrition, and flavor. Baby spinach works best since it’s tender and mild.
- Garlic: A couple of cloves, minced fine, adds aromatic depth.
- Fresh herbs: Basil is traditional, but oregano, thyme, or parsley are excellent additions too.
- Parmesan cheese: This adds a savory depth to the filling. Freshly grated is always better than pre-packaged.
The Coating
- Breadcrumbs: Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs provide flavor and a crispy exterior. For a healthier option, whole wheat breadcrumbs work beautifully.
- Eggs: These help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken. You can use whole eggs or just egg whites for a lighter version.
- Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs complement the other flavors without overpowering them.
The Sauce
- Marinara sauce: Use a good quality store-bought sauce to save time, or make your own if you’re feeling ambitious. The sauce keeps the chicken moist during baking and adds wonderful flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
Before we start cooking, let’s make sure you have the right tools for the job:
- Meat mallet or rolling pin: For pounding the chicken to an even thickness
- Cutting board: Preferably one used only for meat
- Sharp knife: For butterflying the chicken breasts if needed
- Mixing bowls: For preparing the filling and breadcrumb mixture
- Baking dish: A 9×13 inch baking dish works well for most recipes
- Plastic wrap or parchment paper: To place over the chicken when pounding to prevent splatter
- Toothpicks: These help secure the rolls during cooking (optional but helpful)
- Instant-read thermometer: The most reliable way to check if chicken is fully cooked
Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment ready, let’s make some delicious baked mozzarella chicken rolls!
1. Prepare the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place each chicken breast on a cutting board and cover with plastic wrap or parchment paper.
- Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken to about ¼-inch thickness. Work from the center outward for even results.
- Season both sides of each flattened chicken breast with salt and pepper.
Key Takeaway:
- The thinner and more even your chicken, the easier it will be to roll and the more quickly it will cook.
- Don’t skip the plastic wrap when pounding—it prevents raw chicken from splattering around your kitchen.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, combine 1 cup ricotta cheese, 1 cup chopped fresh spinach (or 1/2 cup thawed and squeezed frozen spinach), 2 minced garlic cloves, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix until well combined. The filling should be thick enough to spread easily without being runny.
Key Takeaway:
- If using frozen spinach, it’s crucial to squeeze out all excess moisture to prevent your filling from becoming watery.
- This filling can be made up to a day ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container.
3. Roll the Chicken
- Lay each flattened chicken breast flat with the smoother side down.
- Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the ricotta-spinach mixture evenly over each piece, leaving a half-inch border around the edges.
- Place a slice or two of fresh mozzarella on top of the ricotta mixture.
- Starting from the narrower end, tightly roll up each chicken breast, tucking in the sides as you go.
- Secure each roll with toothpicks if needed.
Key Takeaway:
- Don’t overstuff the chicken breasts or they’ll be difficult to roll and might leak during baking.
- Rolling tightly is key to keeping the filling inside during cooking.
4. Coat the Rolls
- In a shallow dish, beat 2 eggs (or 3 egg whites for a lighter version).
- In another shallow dish, combine 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Roll each chicken bundle in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Key Takeaway:
- For extra crispiness, you can drizzle or spray the breaded rolls with a little olive oil before baking.
- The egg wash is essential for making the breadcrumbs stick properly to the chicken.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Spread 1/2 cup marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place the breaded chicken rolls seam-side down in the dish, leaving some space between each roll.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is almost cooked through (internal temperature around 155°F).
- Remove from oven, spoon remaining marinara sauce over each roll, and top with additional slices of mozzarella.
- Return to oven for 5-7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving (this helps the juices redistribute and makes for easier slicing).
Key Takeaway:
- The two-stage baking process ensures the chicken cooks through without burning the cheese.
- Don’t skip the resting period! It makes a big difference in the final juiciness and texture.
Variations: Creative Twists on Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls
While the classic version is fantastic, don’t be afraid to experiment with these delicious variations:
Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls with Pesto
Replace the marinara sauce with fresh basil pesto for a vibrant green twist. The nutty, herbal flavors of baked mozzarella chicken rolls with pesto complement the cheese beautifully. You can either spread pesto inside the rolls along with the cheese or use it in place of marinara sauce on top.
Mediterranean Style
Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese to the filling for a Mediterranean-inspired version. The tangy, briny flavors add complexity to these chicken roll ups with mozzarella.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Crossover
Add thin slices of ham along with the mozzarella for a fusion of two classic dishes. This variation combines the best of mozzarella stuffed chicken and traditional Cordon Bleu.
Spicy Kick
Add red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or pepper jack cheese to the filling for baked mozzarella chicken rolls with a spicy edge. The heat works wonderfully against the cooling cheese.
Mushroom Lover’s Version
Sauté mushrooms with garlic and herbs, then add to the filling for an earthy, umami-rich variation of chicken roll ups with mozzarella.
Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Easy Solutions
Even experienced cooks sometimes encounter challenges when making baked mozzarella chicken rolls. Here’s how to solve the most common problems:
Problem: Cheese Leaking Out During Baking
Solution:
- Make sure you’re not overfilling the chicken
- Secure the rolls tightly with toothpicks
- Ensure the seam is positioned down in the baking dish
- Consider chilling the prepared rolls for 30 minutes before baking to firm up the filling
Problem: Dry Chicken
Solution:
- Don’t overcook—use a meat thermometer to check for doneness
- Make sure there’s enough sauce in the baking dish
- Let the chicken rest after cooking
- Consider brining the chicken breasts for 30 minutes before starting the recipe
Problem: Breadcrumb Coating Falls Off
Solution:
- Pat the chicken dry before coating
- Make sure to dredge thoroughly in egg wash
- Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken
- Let the breaded rolls sit for 5-10 minutes before baking to allow the coating to set
Problem: Rolls Unravel During Cooking
Solution:
- Use toothpicks to secure (just remember to remove before serving!)
- Don’t overstuff the chicken
- Place seam-side down in the baking dish
- Roll as tightly as possible
Expert Tips for Baked Mozzarella Chicken Roll Success
After making countless baked mozzarella chicken rolls, I’ve picked up some professional tips that make a big difference:
Prep Smart, Cook Relaxed
Prepare all components before you start assembling. Have your filling mixed, cheese sliced, eggs beaten, and breadcrumbs seasoned. This makes the assembly process much smoother and less stressful.
The Right Temperature Matters
Let your chicken come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before you begin. Cold chicken doesn’t pound as evenly and can cook unevenly. Similarly, if you’ve refrigerated the assembled rolls before baking, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Get Creative with Breadcrumbs
While traditional breadcrumbs work well, try panko for extra crispiness or crushed cornflakes for a golden, crunchy coating. For a low-carb version, try a mixture of almond flour and grated Parmesan.
The Secret to Even Cooking
If some of your chicken breasts are thicker than others, place them between the folds of a kitchen towel and give the thicker areas a few extra taps with the mallet. Even thickness means even cooking.
Slice for Presentation
For a gorgeous presentation, let the baked mozzarella chicken rolls rest for 5 minutes after baking, then slice each roll diagonally into medallions. Arrange on a serving platter with extra sauce and fresh herbs.
What to Serve with Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls
A stellar main dish deserves stellar sides. Here are some perfect pairings for your baked mozzarella chicken rolls:
Starches
- Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread: Perfect for sopping up extra sauce
- Pasta: A simple spaghetti or linguine tossed with olive oil and herbs
- Creamy polenta: The smooth texture contrasts beautifully with the chicken
- Roasted potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy inside
Vegetables
- Roasted asparagus or broccolini: The slight bitterness balances the rich chicken
- Simple green salad: With a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness
- Sautéed zucchini and yellow squash: Light and complementary
- Caprese salad: Echoes the flavors in the chicken rolls
Wine Pairings
A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Pinot Noir works beautifully with these mozzarella stuffed chicken rolls. If you prefer white, try a Pinot Grigio or unoaked Chardonnay.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Baked mozzarella chicken rolls are perfect for meal prep and planning ahead:
Make-Ahead Options:
- Prep the components: Make the filling and pound the chicken up to a day ahead. Store separately in the refrigerator.
- Assemble but don’t bake: You can completely assemble and bread the rolls, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add 5-7 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
- Freeze unbaked rolls: After assembly, freeze the rolls on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Storage Guidelines:
- Refrigerate leftovers: Cooked baked mozzarella chicken rolls will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
- Freezing cooked rolls: While possible, the texture of the breadcrumb coating suffers a bit. If freezing cooked rolls, wrap individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes). Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can make the breading soggy.
Nutrition and Dietary Adaptations
These baked chicken rolls stuffed with mozzarella and spinach can easily be adapted to suit various dietary needs:
Gluten-Free Version
- Replace standard breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed Rice Chex
- Ensure all other ingredients (especially store-bought marinara) are certified gluten-free
- Check that any seasonings or spice blends don’t contain gluten fillers
Lower-Carb Option
- Skip the breadcrumbs altogether and instead coat with a mixture of grated Parmesan and almond flour
- Serve with roasted vegetables instead of pasta or bread
- Use a low-sugar marinara sauce
Lighter Version
- Use part-skim mozzarella and ricotta
- Use egg whites instead of whole eggs for the coating
- Increase the ratio of spinach to cheese in the filling
- Bake on a rack set over a baking sheet instead of in sauce for a crispier, less oil-absorbing result
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving* | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 385 | – |
| Protein | 42g | 84% |
| Carbohydrates | 15g | 5% |
| Fat | 18g | 28% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Calcium | 350mg | 35% |
| Iron | 2.5mg | 14% |
*Based on standard recipe using part-skim cheeses, 1 serving = 1 chicken roll
Key Takeaway:
- These baked mozzarella chicken rolls provide an excellent protein-to-calorie ratio, making them a satisfying choice for those watching their intake.
- The calcium content is notable, thanks to the cheese.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
The ingredients in these chicken roll ups with mozzarella don’t just taste good—they’re good for you too:
Spinach
This leafy green superfood is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, plus iron, folate, and calcium. The antioxidants in spinach may help reduce inflammation and support eye health.
Mozzarella Cheese
While cheese is sometimes avoided on strict diets, fresh mozzarella is actually lower in sodium and calories than many other cheeses. It provides calcium for bone health and protein for satiety.
Tomato-Based Marinara
Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease. The vitamin C in tomatoes also helps with iron absorption from the spinach.
Safety First: Food Handling Tips
When working with chicken, food safety is paramount.
- Always wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw chicken
- Use separate cutting boards for meat and other ingredients
- Never rinse raw chicken (it spreads bacteria rather than removing it)
- Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking
Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls: Perfect for Special Diets
These versatile baked mozzarella chicken rolls can fit into several popular eating plans:
Mediterranean Diet
With olive oil, fresh vegetables, and moderate amounts of cheese, this dish aligns well with Mediterranean diet principles, especially when served with a large salad and moderate portion of whole grains.
High-Protein/Low-Carb
For those focusing on protein intake and limiting carbs, these rolls deliver. Each serving provides approximately 42g of protein while keeping carbs relatively low, especially if you use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs.
Family-Friendly
Getting kids to eat vegetables can be a challenge, but tucking spinach inside cheesy chicken is a clever way to incorporate greens. The familiar flavors appeal to young palates while providing good nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls
Let’s address some common questions about making baked mozzarella chicken rolls:
How do you keep baked mozzarella chicken rolls from drying out?
To prevent dryness, don’t overcook the chicken (use a meat thermometer to check), add plenty of sauce to the baking dish, and let the rolls rest for 5 minutes after baking. You can also brine the chicken breasts beforehand for extra juiciness.
What’s the best way to roll baked mozzarella chicken rolls?
Start with evenly pounded chicken breasts about ¼-inch thick. Place the filling on top, leaving a half-inch border around the edges. Begin rolling from the narrower end, tucking in the sides as you go. Roll tightly but not so tight that the filling squeezes out. Secure with toothpicks if needed.
Why are my baked mozzarella chicken rolls leaking cheese?
Cheese leakage usually happens if the rolls aren’t sealed well or if they’re overstuffed. Try using toothpicks to secure the seams, position the rolls seam-side down in the baking dish, and don’t overfill them. Using a combination of ricotta and mozzarella (rather than just mozzarella) can also help prevent leaking.
Can I prepare baked mozzarella chicken rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours before baking. Store them covered in the refrigerator, and add 5-7 minutes to the baking time. You can also freeze the unbaked rolls for longer storage—just thaw in the refrigerator before baking.
What side dishes go well with baked mozzarella chicken rolls?
These versatile rolls pair beautifully with pasta, roasted potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread. For vegetables, try a simple green salad, roasted asparagus, sautéed zucchini, or a classic caprese salad. The Italian flavors complement many Mediterranean-style sides.
A Final Word on Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls
From weeknight dinners to special occasions, baked mozzarella chicken rolls deliver remarkable flavor and presentation with relatively simple preparation. The combination of tender chicken, melty cheese, and flavorful fillings creates a dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
What I love most about these chicken roll ups with mozzarella is their ability to make an ordinary meal feel special. There’s something about cutting into a golden-brown roll and watching the cheese stretch out that brings joy to the table—not to mention the incredible flavors that come through in every bite.
Whether you stick with the classic recipe or experiment with one of the variations, I hope these baked mozzarella chicken rolls become a favorite in your household as they have in mine. Don’t be intimidated by the rolling technique—with a little practice, you’ll be creating picture-perfect rolls in no time.
So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to share your table. Happy cooking!
Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls: Easy, Cheesy Dinner Recipe
Description This recipe for Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls is easy, delicious, and beautiful!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep the chicken: Cut the chicken into 8 pieces and pound the pieces until they are thin (for quick cooking) and have expanded in surface area (for more filling). Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow bowl with 2 tablespoons of Parmesan cheese and set aside.
- Prep the filling: Chop the spinach and saute it with the garlic and just a drizzle of olive oil for 2-3 minutes or until just barely wilted. Combine the sauteed spinach with the ricotta, Parmesan cheese, and 2-3 tablespoons of the egg whites. Place the remaining egg whites in a separate shallow bowl and set aside.
- Assemble the chicken: Oil the bottom of a large baking dish and preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Place one piece of chicken on a flat working surface. Put a spoonful of ricotta-spinach filling right in the middle and roll the chicken up so that the edges meet to form a “seam”. Dip the entire chicken roll in egg whites, and then roll it in the breadcrumbs. Place in a baking dish, seam side down. Repeat for the remaining 7 pieces of chicken. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Finishing touches: After 25 minutes, the chicken should be cooked through (white on the inside) and browned on the top. Cover the chicken with the marinara sauce and slices of fresh Mozzarella. Bake for another 3-5 minutes or until cheese is melting. Sprinkle with fresh basil..
Note
Notes
Don’t try to cram all the pieces too close together because if the sides are touching each other, they won’t get crispy. Leaving a little space between each piece allows the breadcrumbs to bake, brown, and crispify perfectly. 🙂
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