Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe | Easy and Delicious Italian Dinner Idea

Introduction

Lasagna is a classic dish that has captured hearts and taste buds worldwide. Traditional lasagna is rich, hearty, and layered with sauce, cheese, and pasta. However, chicken lasagna roll ups offer a creative twist that makes this beloved meal easier to prepare, serve, and enjoy. Instead of stacking layers in a large pan, thin sheets of pasta are rolled around a flavorful chicken filling. This method allows for individual portions that are both visually appealing and delicious. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and aromatic herbs wrapped in pasta brings a comforting yet sophisticated meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you are cooking for family, hosting friends, or meal prepping, chicken lasagna roll ups provide a fresh way to enjoy classic Italian flavors without the fuss of cutting through a heavy casserole.

This recipe blends the savory taste of chicken with the creamy texture of ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, enhanced by subtle garlic and basil. It is satisfying and wholesome, ideal for those who want a homemade meal that feels special but doesn’t take hours to assemble. Preparing chicken lasagna roll ups invites creativity and personalization, making it easy to adapt according to your favorite tastes or dietary needs. Let’s dive into the ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and tips for customizing this delightful dish that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

Below is a table listing all the ingredients needed for chicken lasagna roll ups, along with their approximate calorie counts per serving size. This helps you keep track of what goes into your meal and supports healthier choices.

Ingredient	Quantity	Approximate Calories per Quantity
Lasagna noodles	8 sheets (uncooked)	840
Cooked chicken breast	2 cups (shredded)	330
Ricotta cheese	1 cup	430
Mozzarella cheese	1 cup (shredded)	320
Parmesan cheese	1/2 cup (grated)	215
Spinach (fresh or frozen)	1 cup	7
Garlic	2 cloves (minced)	9
Marinara sauce	2 cups	140
Olive oil	1 tablespoon	120
Fresh basil	1/4 cup (chopped)	1
Salt	To taste	0
Black pepper	To taste	0

This list captures everything you need to make the dish flavorful and balanced. You can find many of these ingredients in your pantry or local grocery store, making it convenient to prepare this meal anytime.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven and prepare noodles: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Boil the lasagna noodles in salted water until they are al dente. Drain the noodles carefully and lay them flat on a clean towel to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the chicken filling: In a medium bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, minced garlic, and chopped fresh basil. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.For more delicious ideas, don’t miss Classic Lasagna Recipe_ which pairs perfectly with this recipe.
3. Assemble the roll ups: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Lay one noodle flat on your workspace and spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture along one edge of the noodle. Carefully roll the noodle over the filling to create a neat roll. Place the roll seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this for all noodles.
4. Top with sauce and cheese: Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the rolled noodles. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top to create a golden, bubbly crust during baking.
5. Bake and serve: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and slightly browned. Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Following these steps ensures a tender, cheesy, and flavorful chicken lasagna roll up that holds together perfectly.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

One of the best things about chicken lasagna roll ups is how adaptable the recipe is. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or simply experiment with new flavors.

• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. Incorporate more spinach or other greens to boost nutrition and flavor.
• Spicy variation: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a subtle kick.
• Different cheeses: Try using fontina, provolone, or a sharp cheddar instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles or thin slices of zucchini or eggplant as a pasta substitute.
• Add herbs: Fresh oregano, thyme, or rosemary complement the dish beautifully and add an extra layer of aroma.

These simple tweaks can transform the dish and keep it exciting each time you make it.

Nutritional Information

Chicken lasagna roll ups are a well-balanced meal combining protein, carbohydrates, and fats with essential vitamins and minerals. A typical serving provides roughly:

The use of chicken breast offers lean protein, while spinach and basil contribute antioxidants and fiber. Using fresh ingredients and controlling cheese portions help maintain a nutritious profile. This dish is satisfying enough to fuel an active lifestyle without feeling heavy.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken lasagna roll ups pair well with fresh, light side dishes that complement the rich flavors.

• Serve with a crisp green salad tossed with olive oil and lemon juice.
• Roasted vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and nutrients.
• Garlic bread or warm focaccia can make the meal feel extra comforting.
• A glass of chilled white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, balances the creamy texture of the lasagna.
• For a lighter option, steamed broccoli or a simple tomato and cucumber salad work beautifully.

These accompaniments help round out the meal while keeping it fresh and balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make chicken lasagna roll ups ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the roll ups, cover them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
Cottage cheese works as a good substitute. For a dairy-free option, try blending silken tofu with a bit of lemon juice and nutritional yeast.

How do I prevent the noodles from drying out?
Boil noodles until just al dente and lay them flat to cool without overlapping. Lightly brush with olive oil if necessary to prevent sticking.

Can I freeze chicken lasagna roll ups?
Yes. Assemble the roll ups and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding extra cooking time.

Is it possible to make this recipe low-carb?
Replace lasagna noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or eggplant for a lower carbohydrate version.

Conclusion

Chicken lasagna roll ups are a wonderful way to reinvent a classic Italian favorite. They combine the comforting richness of cheese and sauce with the wholesome goodness of chicken and fresh herbs. This dish is both versatile and straightforward, offering plenty of room for personalization without compromising taste. Whether for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or meal prep, these roll ups deliver on flavor and presentation.