Southern cuisine holds a special place in my heart, filled with rich flavors, family memories and that unbeatable sense of comfort. One dish that always brings a smile to my face is Chicken Roll Ups.
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A Southern food classic
Growing up in the South, I remember long family dinners where everyone gathered around the table to share stories and laughter. Southern food was always at the center of those moments — fried chicken, buttery biscuits and comforting casseroles.
Chicken Roll Ups, though, is meaningful to me because it was one of those dishes my grandmother used to make when the family came over. The combination of the tender chicken and melty mozzarella always felt like a warm hug. It’s a perfect example of how Southern food takes simple ingredients and transforms them into something magical.
Ingredients
How to make Chicken Roll Ups
Chicken Roll Ups are as easy to make as they are delicious. First, gather your chicken breasts, mozzarella, spinach and your favorite seasoning. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready for the chicken.
Start by butterflying each chicken breast. This means cutting them horizontally to open up like a book. Once butterflied, gently pound the chicken with a meat mallet to make it an even thickness. This step ensures the chicken will cook evenly, making it easier to roll up.
Now it’s time to fill the chicken! Layer a piece of mozzarella on each breast and top it with spinach. The creamy mozzarella and earthy spinach create a satisfying and hearty flavor combination. Roll up each breast carefully, securing it with toothpicks, if needed, to hold everything together.
Next, arrange the chicken roll ups in a baking dish, and ensure they fit tightly together. If you have extra spinach or cheese, fill the gaps between the chicken roll ups with the remaining ingredients. Add another layer of sliced mozzarella on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through without drying out, and the flavors to meld together. Once cooked, remove the foil and let the roll ups rest for a few minutes before serving. The result is tender, flavorful chicken with a delightful cheesy center.
Serving suggestions
Chicken Roll Ups make for a filling and flavorful main dish, but they can easily be paired with other Southern favorites. Serve them with mashed potatoes on the side or some rice to soak up the delicious juices. A fresh, tangy salad with a simple vinaigrette perfectly complements the richness of the chicken. Don’t forget some homemade cornbread to round out the spread for a true Southern meal.
These roll ups also work well for a casual family dinner or as part of a larger gathering. Their comforting flavors and simple preparation make them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Storage tips
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (though I doubt you will!), Chicken Roll Ups store well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate.
When it’s time to reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for quicker reheating, though the oven method will help maintain that delicious crispy edge.
Southern farewell
There’s something about Southern food that feels like home, no matter where you are. Chicken Roll Ups are a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can create a satisfying and comforting dish.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your home as well. It’s perfect for those moments when you want something hearty, cheesy and flavorful. I encourage you to give it a try and share it with your loved ones — there’s nothing like enjoying good food and good company.
Chicken roll-ups
Equipment
- 1 Casserole
- 1 Sharp Knife
- 1 Aluminum Foil
Ingredients
- 4 Chicken Breasts
- 2 Buffalo Mozzarella
- 1 Cup Frozen Spinach
- Seasoning – alternative
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Gather the chicken breasts, mozzarella, spinach and your seasoning of choice.
- Butterfly each chicken breast by cutting it horizontally. Gently pound the chicken with a meat mallet to ensure an even thickness. This helps it cook evenly and makes rolling easier.
- Place a piece of mozzarella on each chicken breast. Top it with a generous amount of frozen spinach.
- Carefully roll up each chicken breast with the mozzarella and spinach inside. Secure with toothpicks if necessary to hold everything in place.
- Place the chicken roll ups in a baking dish. Add any extra spinach and cheese around the chicken for extra flavor.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the juices run clear.
- Remove the foil and let the roll ups rest for a few minutes. Serve with chopped parsley or over rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Notes
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, mushroom powder, panko, or your preferred seasoning blend to enhance the flavor.
- If you have leftover shredded or cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken, dicing it can save you time.
- For a flavorful twist, try adding sautéed peppers and onions, or a slice of ham or prosciutto to the filling.
