Name: The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Rollatini Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-486235H19M49S
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ¼-inch thickness); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup ricotta cheese; ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup fresh spinach (sautéed and chopped); ½ cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs (beaten); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley (chopped); Extra grated parmesan cheese

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking to impress guests or simply want to treat yourself to one of the most rewarding chicken dishes at home, you’re going to fall in love with The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Rollatini. Imagine tender chicken stuffed with a medley of creamy cheeses and spinach, rolled and breaded to golden perfection. This recipe is equal parts craveworthy and elegant, perfect for making any night feel special. With approachable steps and everyday ingredients, even beginner cooks can earn rave reviews with this flavorful classic!

The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Rollatini Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the short ingredient list fool you — each item is carefully chosen to create bold flavors, melt-in-your-mouth texture, and those irresistible golden edges. These staples come together to prove that a standout meal only needs a few essentials.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect vessel for rolling and stuffing, plus they cook up juicy and tender every time.
Mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey, melty richness that strings beautifully when you cut into each roll.
Ricotta cheese: Brings creamy texture and a delicate, slightly tangy note to balance the flavors.
Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, umami punch and an extra layer of savory goodness in both the filling and as garnish.
Fresh spinach: Sautéed and chopped, this adds freshness, color, and a healthy veggie boost right in the center of each bite.
Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs: These coat the rolls with crunch and plenty of herb-infused seasoning.
Large eggs: Help the crumbs cling perfectly while adding structure and a golden finish during cooking.
Olive oil: Ensures crispness whether you’re baking, pan-frying, or air frying, all while adding rich flavor.
Garlic powder: Lends that classic, mellow garlic note in every delicious forkful.
Dried basil: Weaves in an unmistakable Italian aroma and earthy freshness.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out the best in all the superstar ingredients.
Fresh parsley (optional): For a pop of color and brighter flavor as a garnish on top.
Extra grated parmesan cheese (optional): Because who can say no to extra cheesy goodness right before serving?

How to Make The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Rollatini

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

The key to a perfectly even rollatini is starting with chicken breasts that are all the same thickness, so grab your trusty meat mallet. Place each breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them out until they’re about ¼-inch thick. Not only does this help them cook evenly, but it also creates the ideal surface for your fillings. Thinner chicken is easier to roll and sets you up for that irresistible spiral of cheese and spinach when you slice into the final dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, parmesan, mozzarella, sautéed spinach, garlic powder, dried basil, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely blended. This creamy filling will melt and meld inside the chicken as it cooks, giving you luscious, cheesy bites balanced by bursts of herby spinach.

Step 3: Assemble the Rollatini

Lay each pounded chicken breast flat out in front of you. Spoon a thin, even layer of the cheese and spinach mixture across each one, leaving a bit of border at the edges so that the filling doesn’t ooze out while baking. Starting from the narrow end, roll each breast up tightly, then secure with toothpicks. This step is both fun and satisfying — like making little gift parcels you know will be extra delicious!

Step 4: Coat the Rolls

First, dip each chicken roll carefully into the beaten eggs, making sure every side is coated. Immediately transfer it to a plate filled with seasoned breadcrumbs, rolling it around so it gets a full, even crust. The egg helps the crumbs stick and adds a gorgeous golden finish during cooking, while the breadcrumbs lock in juiciness and bring irresistible crunch.

Step 5: Cook the Rollatini

Now it’s time to bring everything together! For the baking method, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), then arrange the breaded rolls in a lightly greased baking dish. Bake them for 25-30 minutes, or until they’re golden and bubbling. Prefer to start on the stovetop? Pan-fry the rolls in olive oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until crisp, then finish them off in the oven. For an easy, lighter option, air fry at 360°F (182°C) for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway, for a gorgeously crispy result with less oil. Choose your adventure; each method works beautifully!

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once your chicken rollatini are gorgeously golden and cooked through, let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This little pause keeps them juicy and makes removing the toothpicks a cinch. Top with fresh parsley and extra parmesan for an impressive finish, then serve them warm so the cheese is perfectly melty. Every slice rewards you with savory, cheesy spirals that never fail to delight.

How to Serve The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Rollatini

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley brings a bright, fresh contrast to the rich filling, while an extra dusting of grated parmesan never goes amiss. For extra flair, add a few shavings of parmesan or even a little lemon zest for a pop of color and zip. Don’t forget to remove the toothpicks before topping and serving for a pro presentation!

Side Dishes

The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Rollatini pairs beautifully with just about anything. Classic options like garlic butter pasta, simple steamed vegetables, or a crisp arugula salad let the rollatini shine. On cozier nights, serve them with buttery mashed potatoes or roasted asparagus for a comforting, well-rounded meal. If you’re feeling extra Italian, a scoop of marinara alongside brings even more warmth and color to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party showstopper, slice each rollatini into thick rounds and arrange them artfully on a platter so guests can admire the cheesy spiral centers. Stack them slightly on their sides atop a bed of sautéed spinach or herby couscous for dramatic effect. For family-style comfort, serve the rollatini whole and let everyone dig in — bonus points if you let guests garnish their own!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover chicken rollatini can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool completely before storing; this helps preserve their texture and taste. If you sliced any in advance, pack them in a single layer to keep the beautiful fillings intact.

Freezing

Want to stash some away for a busy night? Rollatini freeze incredibly well. Wrap each cooled roll tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, arrange the rollatini in a baking dish, cover loosely with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through (about 15-20 minutes). For extra crispness, lift the foil for the last 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the coating deliciously crunchy, but it works in a pinch for quick lunches.

FAQs

Can I make The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Rollatini ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken rollatini (up to the breading stage) and refrigerate them tightly wrapped for up to 24 hours before baking or cooking. This makes them a fantastic option for dinner parties or meal prep.

What’s the best way to pound chicken evenly?

Use a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet, working from the center outwards to ensure uniform thickness. Always keep the chicken between sheets of plastic wrap or parchment to prevent tearing and keep your work area tidy.

Can I use different cheeses for the filling?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with provolone, fontina, gouda, or even cream cheese for a twist. Just choose varieties that melt well and blend nicely with the other ingredients for best results.

Is it possible to make The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Rollatini gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free alternative, and double-check that your cheeses and seasonings are gluten-free. The results are just as delicious and crispy.

How do I know when the rollatini are fully cooked?

The chicken should be opaque and register at least 165°F (74°C) in the center when checked with a meat thermometer. The outside will be golden and crisp, and the cheese inside will be bubbly and irresistible.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about making The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Rollatini from scratch — it’s a dish that feels both comforting and a little bit fancy, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving this to impress company or just to treat yourself, you’ll love how every cheesy, herb-packed bite turns out. I hope you’ll give it a try and share the joy (and the recipe!) with everyone around your table.

The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Rollatini Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 24 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make delicious Chicken Rollatini with this easy-to-follow recipe. Tender chicken breasts rolled around a flavorful cheese and spinach filling, coated in breadcrumbs, and baked to perfection.

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet to pound them to ¼-inch thickness.
Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix ricotta, parmesan, mozzarella, sautéed spinach, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Rollatini: Lay out the flattened chicken breasts. Spread a thin layer of the cheese filling onto each breast, leaving a small border. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
Coat the Rolls: Dip each roll in the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll it in breadcrumbs for an even crust.
Cook the Rollatini:
- Baking Method: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the rolls in a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Pan-Frying Method: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the rolls for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden, then finish baking in the oven if needed.
- Air Frying Method: Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C). Place rolls in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch, and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway.
Rest and Serve: Allow the rolls to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. Remove toothpicks, garnish with parsley and extra parmesan, and serve warm.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking, Pan-Frying, Air Frying
Cuisine: Italian