If you’re craving a fun and flavorful twist on classic comfort food, this Pizza Chicken Roll Ups Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts stuffed with melty mozzarella and spicy pepperoni, all wrapped up and baked to golden perfection. It combines all the best parts of pizza in an easy-to-eat, protein-packed dinner that feels indulgent but comes together quickly. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a special meal to impress friends, these roll ups are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Pizza Chicken Roll Ups Recipe is essential to building layers of flavor and texture that make the final dish irresistible. From the fresh mozzarella melting inside to the crispy seasoned breadcrumbs coating each roll, these simple pantry staples work together beautifully.
- Olive oil spray: Helps achieve a crispy, golden outer crust without extra grease.
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender, lean protein base that holds all the delicious fillings.
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste: Seasoning essentials that bring out the best flavors.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping): Provides that classic melty, gooey pizza cheese effect.
- 12 slices pepperoni: Adds a spicy, savory punch and authentic pizza flavor.
- ¼ cup seasoned breadcrumbs: Creates a crunchy coating to contrast the tender chicken.
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Adds depth of flavor and enhances the breadcrumb crust.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the olive oil mixture for dipping and cutting through richness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Binds the lemon juice for the perfect coating dip.
- ½ cup marinara sauce: The finishing touch that delivers tangy tomato goodness on top.
- Fresh chopped basil (optional, for garnish): Brings a fresh herbal note and a pop of color.
How to Make Pizza Chicken Roll Ups Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). Preparing your workspace is key here: line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly spray it with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and help crisp up the roll ups. While your oven warms, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese in one bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the olive oil with fresh lemon juice—you’ll use this to give the chicken a light, flavorful coating before breading.
Step 2: Prepare Chicken Cutlets
Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and carefully cut each one horizontally so you end up with six thin cutlets. Placing each cutlet between two pieces of wax paper, gently pound them down to about ¼-inch thickness. This step not only tenderizes the chicken but creates an even surface perfect for rolling. Season the chicken cutlets with kosher salt and black pepper to bring out their natural juices and flavor.
Step 3: Fill and Roll Your Chicken
This is where the magic happens! Lay each chicken cutlet flat, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese and two slices of pepperoni. These toppings pack all the quintessential pizza flavors inside every bite. Roll each cutlet up tightly, ensuring the filling is snug to avoid any spills during baking. Next, dip each rolled chicken first into the olive oil and lemon juice mixture, then roll it generously in the Parmesan breadcrumb blend. Placing them seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet helps them maintain shape while baking. Finish this step by lightly spraying the tops with olive oil spray for that perfect crisp crust.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake your roll ups for about 20 minutes, which allows the chicken to cook through and the crust to turn golden and crispy. At this point, remove the tray from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each roll up. Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella on top for a melty, gooey finish. Pop them back in for another 4 to 5 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles into irresistible golden spots.
Step 5: Ready to Serve
Once out of the oven, these Pizza Chicken Roll Ups Recipe beauties are ready to steal the spotlight on your dinner table. Garnish with some fresh chopped basil to add a burst of freshness and vibrant color that makes the dish as pretty as it tastes. Serve them warm and watch them disappear fast!
How to Serve Pizza Chicken Roll Ups Recipe
Garnishes
While fresh chopped basil is a classic garnish for this dish, don’t hesitate to experiment. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick, or freshly grated Parmesan brings an extra savory layer. A drizzle of olive oil or a handful of microgreens can enhance both flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
Because the roll ups pack so much flavor, pairing them with simple, fresh sides is a smart choice. A crisp Caesar salad or a classic garden salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances richness beautifully. For carb lovers, roasted garlic Parmesan potatoes or a light pasta tossed with olive oil and herbs complements the pizza-inspired chicken perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For entertaining, slice the roll ups into bite-sized rounds and serve them as fun appetizers with toothpicks. You can also arrange them on a platter with small bowls of marinara for dipping. For a family dinner, serve them whole with sides plated individually for a comforting, restaurant-style meal at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Pizza Chicken Roll Ups Recipe cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for easy next-day meals. The breading might lose a bit of crispiness but the flavors will remain just as vibrant.
Freezing
These roll ups freeze beautifully for longer storage. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap, then place them together in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, place the roll ups on a baking sheet and pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This method crisps the breadcrumb coating back up while warming the chicken evenly. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that delicious crust from turning soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella gives the classic gooey melt, provolone or fontina work wonderfully for a slightly different flavor profile. Just stick to cheeses that melt well to keep the delicious, oozy texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free seasoned breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to coat the chicken. Make sure your marinara sauce and other ingredients don’t contain hidden gluten to keep things safe and tasty.
How spicy are these Pizza Chicken Roll Ups?
The roll ups have a mild amount of heat from the pepperoni, but nothing overwhelming. You can adjust the spice level by choosing a mild or spicy pepperoni or adding red pepper flakes if you like it hotter.
Can I prepare the roll ups ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! Assemble the roll ups and keep them covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just be sure to add the marinara and extra cheese right before baking to keep everything fresh and melty.
What can I substitute for fresh basil if I don’t have any?
If fresh basil isn’t available, dried basil sprinkled in the marinara or a few fresh spinach or arugula leaves as garnish provide a nice herbal brightness. Parsley also works well for a fresh finishing touch.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a Pizza Chicken Roll Ups Recipe that brings all the best flavors of your favorite pizza wrapped up in tender chicken. It’s a fun, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself turning to these delicious roll ups again and again for a sure-fire way to wow your family and friends with a heartfelt home-cooked meal.
Print
Pizza Chicken Roll Ups Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
These Pizza Chicken Roll Ups are a delicious twist on traditional pizza, featuring tender chicken breasts rolled with mozzarella cheese and pepperoni, coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture, baked to perfection, and topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for a family dinner or a fun meal that combines the best of pizza and chicken in one delightful dish.
Ingredients
Chicken and Filling
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (plus more for topping)
- 12 slices pepperoni
Breadcrumb Coating
- ¼ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Oil and Marinade
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Olive oil spray
Sauce and Garnish
- ½ cup marinara sauce
- Fresh chopped basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and lightly grease with olive oil spray. In a bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. In another bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut each chicken breast in half horizontally to create six thin cutlets. Place each cutlet between two pieces of wax paper and pound to ¼-inch thickness to ensure even cooking. Season each cutlet with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
- Fill and Roll: On each flattened chicken cutlet, evenly distribute shredded mozzarella cheese and place 2 slices of pepperoni on top. Roll up each cutlet tightly to enclose the filling. Dip each roll-up first in the olive oil and lemon juice mixture, then coat in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Place each roll-up seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray to help browning.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through and the coating to become golden and crisp.
- Top and Finish: Remove the roll-ups from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each one. Sprinkle additional shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and the chicken is fully cooked.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh chopped basil if desired. Serve the pizza chicken roll ups hot for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Pounding the chicken to an even thickness ensures they cook evenly and roll easily.
- Using seasoned breadcrumbs adds extra flavor, but you can use plain breadcrumbs and add your own seasoning.
- These roll ups can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking.
- Adjust the amount of pepperoni and cheese to your preference for a more or less indulgent meal.
- For a spicier twist, add crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
