Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls

Instructions: How to Make Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by flattening the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. This ensures the rolls cook evenly and gives you more surface area for the filling. Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Make the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, smoked gouda, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
3. Assemble the Rolls: Spread a generous amount of the cheesy mixture over each flattened chicken breast, leaving a little space around the edges. Carefully roll up the chicken, securing the filling inside. If you’d like, you can secure the rolls with toothpicks to ensure they stay together during cooking.
4. Coat the Rolls (Optional): For an extra crispy finish, roll each chicken bundle in breadcrumbs. This step adds a nice texture and golden color to the final dish, but it’s optional if you prefer a simpler approach.
5. Cook the Chicken Rolls: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the chicken rolls in the pan and cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the outside is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
6. Finishing Touches: Once the chicken rolls are cooked to perfection, remove them from the pan. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before slicing them into medallions. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
7. Serve and Garnish: Arrange the rolls on a serving plate and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If you love heat, you can drizzle some extra hot sauce on top or serve with a side of creamy dipping sauce to balance the spiciness.

Tips for the Perfect Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls

• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder version, use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds and membranes. Alternatively, if you love the heat, leave the seeds in or even add a few more jalapeños for extra spice.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Pepper jack or mozzarella can add a gooey texture, while blue cheese or Monterey Jack will give a slightly different flavor profile.
• Make It Ahead: These chicken rolls can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Simply cook them when you’re ready to serve.
• Baking Option: For a healthier or less hands-on approach, you can bake the rolls at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted.

Why You’ll Love Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls

This dish is perfect for anyone who loves a combination of creamy, cheesy, spicy, and smoky flavors. It’s an easy-to-make, comforting, and satisfying meal that will surely please a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a party, these Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls will be the star of the show.

So, next time you’re craving something bold and delicious, give these rolls a try! They offer the perfect balance of creamy cheese, smoky heat, and tender chicken, making them a must-try recipe for any occasion.