Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups

Directions

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by tenderizing the chicken breasts. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper, and gently pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to roll up. Once flattened, season both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Make the Broccoli Cheddar Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the finely chopped cooked broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, and softened cream cheese. Mix everything together until well combined. This mixture will be your filling for the chicken rollups.
3. Assemble the Rollups: Lay the seasoned chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Spoon a generous amount of the broccoli and cheese mixture onto the center of each chicken breast. Carefully roll the chicken up around the filling, securing the ends by tucking them in as you go. If necessary, use toothpicks to hold the rollups together during cooking.
4. Dredge and Coat the Rollups: Set up a breading station by placing flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in three shallow dishes. First, dredge each chicken rollup in the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. Then dip it in the egg wash, followed by the breadcrumbs. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick to the rollups.
5. Cook the Chicken Rollups: Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken rollups in the skillet, seam side down. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your skillet.
6. Make the Sauce (Optional): While the chicken rollups are cooking, you can prepare the sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, garlic powder, and salt and pepper. Stir occasionally until the sauce is heated through. Once it’s warmed, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Serve: Once the chicken rollups are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Drizzle the creamy cheese sauce over the rollups for an extra burst of flavor (optional but highly recommended!). Serve the rollups with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups

• Tenderize the Chicken: For the best results, be sure to flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness. This will help the chicken cook uniformly and make rolling easier.
• Customize the Filling: While the broccoli and cheddar combination is classic, you can switch it up by adding other ingredients to the filling, such as cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give these rollups an extra crispy coating, but regular breadcrumbs will work just as well if that’s what you have on hand.
• Cook in Batches: If your skillet isn’t large enough to fit all the rollups at once, cook them in batches. This ensures the chicken has plenty of space to brown and cook evenly without overcrowding the pan.
• Make Ahead and Freeze: You can assemble the rollups ahead of time and freeze them before cooking. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, bake them from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes, or until fully cooked through.
• Serving Suggestions: These rollups pair wonderfully with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a light salad. You can also serve them with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping!

Why Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups Are Perfect for Any Occasion

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups are versatile enough to be served on almost any occasion:

• Family Dinner: A comforting, flavorful meal that everyone will love. These rollups are perfect for satisfying both adults and kids, making them ideal for a family dinner.
• Meal Prep: Make a batch at the beginning of the week, and you’ll have a delicious, easy-to-reheat dinner on hand for the next few days. Simply store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Entertaining: Want to impress your guests with something a little different? These rollups are an impressive and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to wow everyone at your next dinner party or get-together.
• Quick Weeknight Dinner: With simple ingredients and a short cooking time, these chicken rollups are perfect for a busy weeknight. They come together quickly, making them a convenient and delicious option.

Final Thoughts

Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups offer the perfect balance of flavors and textures—tender chicken, cheesy filling, and a crispy, golden crust. This dish is incredibly satisfying and versatile, making it an ideal option for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or preparing it for a special gathering, these rollups will undoubtedly become a favorite. Try them tonight, and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal everyone will love!