Pizza Chicken Roll Ups Recipe

These Pizza Chicken Roll Ups are a fun and flavorful twist on classic pizza! Imagine tender chicken breasts filled with gooey mozzarella cheese and savory pepperoni, all rolled up and baked to perfection with a crispy breadcrumb coating. This recipe is easy to make and delivers a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Fun: This recipe combines the familiar flavors of pizza with the heartiness of chicken for a unique and satisfying dish.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
• Kid-Friendly: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters. It’s a fun and interactive way to enjoy pizza night.
• Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite pizza toppings, such as mushrooms, onions, or peppers.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Use high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture.
• Olive oil spray: Used to lightly coat the baking sheet and the chicken roll ups.
• Kosher salt and pepper: Season the chicken to perfection.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a gooey and cheesy filling.
• Pepperoni slices: Adds a classic pizza flavor.
• Seasoned breadcrumbs: Create a crispy and flavorful coating.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty and umami flavor to the breading.
• Fresh lemon juice: Adds a bright and zesty flavor to the chicken.
• Olive oil: Used to coat the chicken before breading.
• Marinara sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.
• Fresh basil (optional): Adds a fresh herb flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Pizza Chicken Roll Ups

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly spray with olive oil. In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice. Set both bowls aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create 6 thin cutlets. Place each cutlet between two pieces of wax paper or plastic wrap and lightly pound them to an even thickness of about ¼ inch. Season the chicken cutlets with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Assemble the Roll Ups

Lay each chicken cutlet flat and top with 1-2 tablespoons of mozzarella cheese and 2 slices of pepperoni. Starting with the shorter edge, tightly roll up each chicken cutlet. Dip each roll up in the olive oil mixture, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Place the breaded chicken roll ups seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops of the roll ups with olive oil spray.

Step 4: Bake and Serve

Bake the chicken roll ups for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and top each roll up with about 1 tablespoon of marinara sauce and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use high-quality chicken: For the best flavor and texture, use high-quality chicken breasts.
• Pound the chicken evenly: Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures that it cooks evenly and makes it easier to roll.
• Don’t overstuff the chicken: Overstuffing the chicken can prevent it from cooking evenly and may cause the cheese to leak out.
• Use a meat thermometer: An instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Make ahead: You can assemble the chicken roll ups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

How to Serve

These Pizza Chicken Roll Ups are delicious with a variety of sides:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy and colorful touch.
• Pasta: Serve the chicken roll ups with a side of your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccine, or angel hair.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pizza Chicken Roll Ups are best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover chicken roll ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are more flavorful and forgiving than chicken breasts, so they’re a great option for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

3. Can I add other pizza toppings?
Definitely! Chopped mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, or olives would be delicious additions to the filling.

4. Can I make this recipe without the breading?
Yes, you can! Simply omit the breading step and bake the stuffed chicken breasts as directed.

This Pizza Chicken Roll Ups Recipe is a fun, flavorful, and easy way to enjoy a pizza-inspired meal. With its cheesy filling, tender chicken, and crispy coating, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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