Chef Mitchell preparing Baked Chicken Roll-Ups with Spinach
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered Baked Chicken Roll-Ups with Spinach while experimenting with Mediterranean flavors in my kitchen. After several attempts, I perfected the balance of flavors that make this dish irresistible. The combination of creamy cheeses and fresh spinach wrapped in tender chicken has become a family favorite. This recipe reflects my love for simple yet delicious meals that bring people together."

With over 10 years of experience in Mediterranean cuisine, I specialize in creating recipes that highlight fresh ingredients and bold flavors. My passion for cooking has led me to develop over 1000 recipes, each crafted with care and creativity. I love sharing the joy of cooking with others through easy-to-follow recipes.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Baked Chicken Roll-Ups with Spinach served on a plate

Why This Baked Chicken Roll-Ups with Spinach Recipe Works

This recipe stands out for its combination of fresh ingredients and simple preparation. The tender chicken rolls encase a creamy and flavorful filling made with spinach and cheeses, making every bite unforgettable. Additionally, the use of marinara sauce adds depth to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.

The technique used ensures that the chicken remains juicy while the filling stays intact. By baking the roll-ups covered initially, they steam and cook evenly. The final uncovered baking step allows for a golden and slightly crispy exterior, creating a delicious contrast in texture.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, make sure your chicken is thinly sliced to ensure even cooking. You can also marinate the chicken in olive oil and herbs for extra flavor. Additionally, allow the chicken to rest after baking to help retain its juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the roll-ups ahead of time. Assemble them and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled.

If you don't have ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese as a substitute. Just blend it for a smoother consistency. Alternatively, cream cheese can work as well, providing a richer flavor to the filling.

You can check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer into the center of the chicken roll. It should read 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. Additionally, the chicken should be golden brown on top, and the filling should be hot and bubbly.

Yes, you can freeze the assembled roll-ups before baking. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

These roll-ups pair wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A light Mediterranean-style salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives would complement the dish perfectly.

Baked Chicken Roll-Ups with Spinach can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Absolutely! You can prepare the roll-ups ahead of time, even the day before. Just keep them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake them, ensuring you don’t lose any flavor or moisture.

To reheat, place the roll-ups in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, and remove the foil in the last few minutes for a crisp top.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your chicken roll-ups turn out dry, it may be due to overcooking.

Solution: To prevent this, make sure to monitor the internal temperature closely, removing from the oven as soon as it reaches 165°F. Adding some broth or extra sauce can also help retain moisture.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: Sometimes, the exterior may not become crispy as expected.

Solution: Ensure you bake without the foil during the last 15 minutes to allow for browning. A final broil can also enhance crispiness.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the chicken rolls are overcooked, they will be tough and dry.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, use a meat thermometer and keep an eye on the baking time. Consider adding a little broth to the baking dish.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: If the centers are undercooked, the chicken may not have been thin enough.

Recovery: Allow the roll-ups to bake longer and ensure they are well spaced in the dish to cook evenly. Check any remaining roll-ups with a thermometer.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior usually indicates too high of a temperature or baking time.

Prevention: Reduce the temperature or cover the dish with foil if browning too quickly. Check regularly while baking.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If too sweet, add a pinch of salt or an acid like lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If too salty, serve with unsalted sides or add a little sugar to the sauce to counterbalance.

Bland: If bland, consider increasing the spices or adding fresh herbs to boost flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Baked Chicken Roll-Ups with Spinach

Essential Ingredients for Baked Chicken Roll-Ups with Spinach

Key ingredients include fresh chicken breasts, which provide a lean protein base, and spinach that adds nutrients and color. The ricotta and mozzarella create a creamy texture, while the marinara sauce adds moisture and flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering a balanced and tasty dish.

Using high-quality ingredients is essential for the best results. Opt for fresh, organic spinach and premium cheeses for an enhanced flavor profile. The quality of your chicken also matters; choose free-range or organic chicken for better taste and texture.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breasts: Choose thinly sliced chicken breasts to ensure even cooking and tenderness. Marinating them briefly in olive oil and herbs can add additional flavor.
  • Spinach: Fresh spinach is preferable for its vibrant color and taste. You can also use baby spinach for a milder flavor. Be sure to wash and dry it thoroughly before use.
  • Cheeses: Use a mix of ricotta and mozzarella for creaminess and flavor. Grated parmesan on top adds a nice crust and saltiness to balance the dish.
Cooking process for Baked Chicken Roll-Ups with Spinach

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Baked Chicken Roll-Ups with Spinach is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Start by preparing the filling and rolling the chicken. Bake initially covered to ensure even cooking, then uncover for a finishing touch to achieve that golden-brown color.

To achieve perfect results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before use. This helps with even cooking and flavor integration. Pay attention to the baking times and temperatures for best outcomes.

Key Technique for Perfect Baked Chicken Roll-Ups with Spinach

The key to perfect Baked Chicken Roll-Ups lies in properly rolling the chicken and sealing the filling. Ensure not to overfill, and roll tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking. This technique ensures that every bite is filled with flavor.

Baked Chicken Roll-Ups with Spinach

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
    Store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    For greasing the baking dish

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken breasts
    Cut into thin slices
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
    Chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
    For the filling
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese
    Shredded
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
    For topping
  • 1 egg
    Beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
    For flavor

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Prepare Filling

    In a large bowl, combine chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, parmesan, beaten egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

  3. Assemble Roll-Ups

    Lay a chicken slice flat, place a spoonful of the filling at one end, and roll tightly.

  4. Place in Baking Dish

    Place the roll-up seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat until all chicken is used.

  5. Add Marinara Sauce

    Pour marinara sauce over the chicken roll-ups, ensuring they're well-coated.

  6. Drizzle with Olive Oil

    Drizzle olive oil over the top for added flavor.

  7. Bake

    Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden.

  8. Garnish and Serve

    Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Baked Chicken Roll-Ups, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these roll-ups with a side of garlic bread or a light salad to complement the flavors. A drizzle of extra marinara sauce on top adds a nice touch.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the filling. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist.