Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside
• Healthier than traditional fried chicken rolls
• Simple ingredients with restaurant-quality taste
• Great for meal prep and leftovers
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts
• Mozzarella cheese
• Italian breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Marinara sauce
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Italian seasoning
• Eggs
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on each chicken breast and roll them up tightly, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
4. In one bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
5. Dip each rolled chicken breast into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
6. Arrange the coated chicken rolls in the prepared baking dish and lightly drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
8. Remove from the oven, top with marinara sauce and extra mozzarella cheese, then bake for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
9. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

• Spinach and Ricotta: Add a mixture of ricotta cheese and sautéed spinach inside the chicken before rolling.
• Beef-Wrapped: Wrap the chicken rolls in thin slices of beef before baking for extra flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb coating or use spicy marinara sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
• Different Cheeses: Try provolone, gouda, or cheddar instead of mozzarella for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked, breaded chicken rolls for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time as needed.

FAQs

How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?

Make sure to roll the chicken tightly and secure it with toothpicks. Sealing the edges well helps prevent leaks.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used, but they may require a slightly longer cooking time.

What can I serve with baked mozzarella chicken rolls?

They pair well with pasta, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the chicken rolls, coat them in breadcrumbs, and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I use store-bought marinara sauce?

Absolutely! A good-quality store-bought marinara works perfectly for this recipe.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

To make it keto-friendly, use almond flour or crushed beef rinds instead of breadcrumbs.

Can I air fry the chicken rolls instead?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Can I add vegetables inside the chicken roll?

Of course! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be great additions inside the roll.

What’s the best way to slice the chicken rolls for serving?

Let them rest for a few minutes after baking, then slice diagonally for the best presentation.

Conclusion

Baked Mozzarella Chicken Rolls are a fantastic way to enjoy a crispy, cheesy, and flavorful meal without frying. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is easy, delicious, and customizable. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting, homemade Italian-inspired dish!