Garlic Cheese Chicken Rollups Recipe

Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless, these are the main protein component of the dish.

Mozzarella cheese: Shredded cheese that melts beautifully inside the chicken rollups.

Garlic: Fresh cloves, minced to infuse the dish with a robust flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the flavor.

Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken rollups to a golden brown perfection.

When flattening the chicken breasts, place them between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. This prevents the meat from tearing and makes it easier to achieve an even thickness. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to the desired ¼ inch thickness. This ensures that the chicken rollups cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the garlic and mozzarella cheese mixture.

• boneless, skinless chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast is lean and has a similar texture to chicken, making it a good alternative.

• shredded mozzarella cheese - Substitute with shredded provolone cheese: Provolone has a similar melting quality and mild flavor that complements the dish.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder provides a similar flavor profile and can be used in a pinch if fresh garlic is unavailable.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a salty flavor along with a bit of umami, enhancing the overall taste.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat and flavor but with a slightly different aroma, which can add a unique twist.

• olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil.

• Allow the chicken rollups to cool completely after baking. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy.

• Wrap each chicken rollup individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This ensures they stay moist and flavorful.

• Place the wrapped chicken rollups in an airtight container or a resealable freezer bag. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

• Label the container or bag with the date and contents. This helps you keep track of how long they've been stored.

• Store the chicken rollups in the refrigerator if you plan to eat them within 3-4 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer, where they can last up to 2-3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen chicken rollups in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain their texture and flavor.

• Reheat the chicken rollups in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but be cautious as it may alter the texture slightly.

• For an extra burst of flavor, consider brushing the chicken rollups with a bit of olive oil or sprinkling additional mozzarella cheese on top before reheating.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the leftover chicken rollups in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to keep the chicken moist.
  4. Heat for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  5. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to let the cheese get bubbly and slightly golden.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place the chicken rollups on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent drying out.
  3. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes.
  4. Check the temperature and continue heating in 30-second intervals until the chicken is thoroughly warmed.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to the pan.
  3. Place the chicken rollups in the skillet and cover with a lid.
  4. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until heated through and the cheese is melted.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the chicken rollups in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
  3. Heat for 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. Remove once the chicken is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C) for baking the chicken rollups.

• Meat mallet: Used to flatten the chicken breasts to ¼ inch thickness.

• Mixing bowl: For mixing the mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

• Spoon: To place the cheese mixture onto each chicken breast.

• Toothpicks: To secure the chicken rollups if necessary.

• Skillet: For searing the chicken rollups until golden brown.

• Tongs: To handle the chicken rollups while searing and transferring them.

• Baking dish: To bake the seared chicken rollups in the oven.

• Knife: For mincing the garlic cloves.

• Cutting board: To provide a surface for flattening the chicken and mincing the garlic.

• Measuring spoons: To measure out the salt, pepper, and olive oil.

• Grater: If you need to shred the mozzarella cheese yourself.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Mince the garlic and shred the mozzarella cheese in advance to save time during assembly.

Use a meat mallet: Flatten the chicken breasts quickly and evenly with a meat mallet to ensure uniform cooking.

Preheat the oven early: Start preheating the oven as soon as you begin prepping to avoid waiting later.

Sear in batches: If your pan is small, sear the chicken rollups in batches to ensure even browning.

Line the baking dish: Use parchment paper or foil to line the baking dish for easy cleanup.