Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups Recipe
If you’re craving a cozy, cheesy dinner that’s secretly packed with veggies, these Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups might just become your new obsession. Imagine tender chicken breasts, rolled up with a savory, creamy broccoli and cheddar filling, then baked under a golden, buttery Parmesan crumb topping. Each bite is a perfect balance of juicy chicken, melty cheese, and a burst of broccoli freshness. Whether you’re feeding picky kids or impressing guests, this dish is a weeknight hero and a dinner party delight all rolled into one.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups are delightfully simple, but each one plays a starring role in creating layers of flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need, with tips to make your rollups extra delicious:
- Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy rolling and juicy results.
- Salt: Brings out all the savory notes in the chicken and the filling.
- Black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth and gentle heat.
- Garlic powder: Gives a subtle, aromatic kick to every bite.
- Paprika: Lends a lovely color and a mild, smoky flavor.
- Broccoli florets: Finely chop for even distribution and a pop of green in every slice.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: The gooey, melty star of the filling.
- Cream cheese (softened): Helps bind the filling and adds creaminess to the rollups.
- Dijon mustard: A spoonful brightens the filling with subtle tang.
- Olive oil: Keeps the chicken moist and helps crisp up the topping.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: For a salty, nutty flavor boost in the crumb topping.
- Breadcrumbs: Adds crunch and soaks up the buttery topping.
- Melted butter: The secret to a perfectly golden, irresistible crust.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly greasing a baking dish. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper, then gently pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness. This step is crucial—it ensures the chicken cooks evenly and is easy to roll up later. Season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to set the stage for flavor.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a small mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli florets, shredded cheddar, softened cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Stir until everything is well mixed and the broccoli is evenly coated. This filling will be creamy, cheesy, and loaded with little green flecks—exactly what you want for these Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups.
Step 3: Assemble the Rollups
Lay each flattened chicken breast out and spread a generous layer of the broccoli cheddar mixture over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Gently roll up each piece of chicken, starting from the short end, tucking in the filling as you go. Secure with toothpicks if you need a little extra help keeping them closed. Place each rollup seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: Add the Crunchy Topping
In a separate bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the tops of the chicken rollups. Drizzle a little olive oil over everything—the extra fat ensures your topping comes out golden and crisp after baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Slide your baking dish into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is deeply golden. The aroma will fill your kitchen and make it almost impossible to wait. Let the Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups rest for about 5 minutes before serving—this helps seal in all those tasty juices.
How to Serve Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle your Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups with a little extra chopped parsley or a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan right before serving. A squeeze of fresh lemon over the top can also brighten up the flavors and add a lovely zing.
Side Dishes
These rollups are hearty on their own, but they pair beautifully with a scoop of fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad. For extra veggies, roasted carrots or asparagus make a colorful and tasty addition to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get a bit fancy, slice each rollup into thick rounds and arrange them on a platter, showing off that gorgeous spiral of broccoli and cheese. They look stunning as appetizers at a party, or you can serve them family-style for an inviting, shareable dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as they mingle, so you’re in for a treat the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze these rollups either before or after baking. For best results, wrap each rollup individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the rollups in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. This helps keep the chicken moist and the topping crisp. A quick zap in the microwave works too, though the topping may not stay as crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain the broccoli thoroughly before chopping and mixing it into the filling. This keeps the rollups from getting watery.
What’s the best way to keep the rollups from unrolling while baking?
Secure each rollup with toothpicks after rolling, and place them seam-side down in the baking dish. They’ll hold their shape perfectly as they bake.
Can I make Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the rollups up to a day ahead, cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking for the best texture.
Are there gluten-free options for the topping?
You can substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers in place of the regular breadcrumbs. Or skip them entirely and use extra Parmesan for a crisp, gluten-free crust.
What other cheeses work well in the filling?
While cheddar is classic, feel free to mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a little Gruyère for a different cheesy twist. Just make sure the cheese melts well for that irresistible filling.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to bring Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups to your dinner table. They’re simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough to wow your family and friends. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!
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Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups are a delicious and cheesy main course featuring tender chicken breasts stuffed with a savory broccoli and cheddar mixture, then baked to golden perfection with a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb topping. This recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner that combines protein-rich chicken with flavorful vegetables and cheese.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Filling
- 1 cup broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
Topping and Finishing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish. Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound them to about 1/4-inch thickness to ensure even cooking. Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika for a flavorful base.
- Make Filling: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped broccoli florets, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, and Dijon mustard. Mix thoroughly until well combined to create a creamy and cheesy filling.
- Assemble Rollups: Spread the broccoli-cheese mixture evenly over each flattened chicken breast. Carefully roll up each breast tightly, securing with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling inside during baking.
- Prepare Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and melted butter. Mix well to create a buttery, cheesy crumb topping.
- Coat and Bake: Place the chicken rollups seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture over the tops of the rollups, then drizzle with olive oil to promote browning and crispiness.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaching 165°F/74°C) and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the rollups rest for about 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving. Enjoy as is or with your favorite sides like rice, mashed potatoes, or a salad.
Notes
- For a lower-carb alternative, omit the breadcrumbs and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top instead.
- These rollups pair wonderfully with rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple green side salad.
- Secure rollups with toothpicks to prevent unrolling during baking.
- Make sure chicken breasts are pounded evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rollup
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
