Pizza Chicken Roll Ups are one of those irresistible dishes that combines the best parts of both pizza and chicken into a fun, flavorful main course. Imagine juicy, seasoned chicken breasts rolled around gooey mozzarella cheese and spicy pepperoni, smothered in savory marinara sauce, and baked to melty, golden perfection. Each bite delivers layers of pizza-inspired flavor, all wrapped up in a tender, protein-packed bundle. Whether you’re feeding a weeknight crowd or looking to shake up your dinner routine, Pizza Chicken Roll Ups are as easy to make as they are to devour!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of ingredients to bring Pizza Chicken Roll Ups to life, and each one plays a starring role. Every item in this list works together for ultimate flavor, loads of melty texture, and colors that pop right off the plate.
- Chicken breasts: Pounded thin for easy rolling and quick, even cooking. Thinner pieces also soak up the seasonings beautifully.
- Salt: Just a touch brings out the natural flavor of the chicken and balances the richness of the cheese.
- Black pepper: Adds essential warmth and a subtle kick to every bite.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the dish with true pizza-shop depth.
- Mozzarella cheese: The oozy, stretchy cheese that makes every roll irresistible—don’t skimp!
- Pepperoni: Brings salty, spicy, classic pizza flavor right into the heart of your roll ups.
- Marinara or pizza sauce: Delivers that tomatoey Italian comfort and keeps the chicken moist while it bakes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a savory, golden finish.
- Olive oil: Used to sear, it deepens the color and flavor on the outside of each roll up.
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley (optional): For garnishing with a burst of freshness and color to brighten up the whole dish.
How to Make Pizza Chicken Roll Ups
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a baking dish. Lay the chicken breasts on a clean surface and use a meat mallet (or even a rolling pin) to pound them to an even thinness. This not only makes them easier to roll, but also ensures they cook all the way through while staying juicy. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning for maximum flavor in every layer.
Step 2: Fill and Roll
Next, the fun begins! Lay two slices of mozzarella cheese and four to six slices of pepperoni right on top of each piece of chicken. Starting at one end, tightly roll up the chicken—be as neat as you can, but don’t worry if a little cheese escapes while baking (it just adds crispy deliciousness). Secure each roll with toothpicks if needed, so the filling stays perfectly tucked inside.
Step 3: Sear for Flavor
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and place your chicken roll ups seam-side down. Give them 2 to 3 minutes per side—just long enough to get a gorgeous golden crust. This quick sear locks in moisture and adds depth of flavor, making your Pizza Chicken Roll Ups extra scrumptious.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the browned roll ups to your greased baking dish. Spoon the marinara sauce generously over them, then sprinkle with plenty of grated Parmesan. Bake in the oven for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma at this stage is truly irresistible—your kitchen will smell just like your favorite Italian pizzeria!
Step 5: Rest, Garnish, and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your Pizza Chicken Roll Ups rest for 5 minutes—this helps the cheese settle inside and makes slicing easier. Finish with a flourish of fresh basil or parsley if you like, for a final burst of color and herby brightness.
How to Serve Pizza Chicken Roll Ups
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh chopped basil or parsley right before serving adds both visual appeal and a splash of herby freshness. You could even add a quick grating of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for more depth and a restaurant-worthy finish.
Side Dishes
Pizza Chicken Roll Ups are satisfying on their own, but they pair beautifully with simple sides. A light green salad tossed in Italian vinaigrette, buttery garlic bread, or a pile of zoodles (spiralized zucchini noodles) balance the richness. For heartier appetites, try pairing them with roasted vegetables or classic spaghetti—just like a pizzeria platter!
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your Pizza Chicken Roll Ups on a diagonal and arrange them over a swirl of marinara sauce for an elegant plated dinner. For casual gatherings, cut them into thick rounds and serve with toothpicks for pizza-inspired party appetizers. They’re also fantastic tucked into a split hoagie roll for a fun twist on a chicken parm sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have any Pizza Chicken Roll Ups left over, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully and can even be enjoyed cold for a protein-packed lunch straight from the refrigerator.
Freezing
These roll ups freeze very well! Simply let them cool completely, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat Pizza Chicken Roll Ups in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until piping hot—about 15 to 20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, a couple of minutes in the microwave will do, but reheating gently in the oven keeps the texture at its best.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work really well for Pizza Chicken Roll Ups. Just make sure to pound them thin so they roll up easily and bake through evenly.
What other fillings could I try?
Feel free to get creative! Add sautéed mushrooms, thinly sliced bell peppers, or even spinach inside your roll ups. Turkey pepperoni or sliced prosciutto also make delicious swaps or additions.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Pizza Chicken Roll Ups are naturally gluten-free as long as your marinara sauce and pepperoni are gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure if you’re cooking for someone with sensitivities.
How do I keep the cheese from oozing out?
Rolling the chicken tightly and securing well with toothpicks will help keep most of the cheese inside. A little melting out is totally normal and even adds some delicious crispy bits in the pan!
Can I make these ahead for meal prep?
Definitely! Pizza Chicken Roll Ups are ideal for prepping ahead—assemble, cover, and keep them chilled in the fridge up to a day before searing and baking as directed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving comfort, bold flavor, and a little bit of kitchen fun, you simply have to try Pizza Chicken Roll Ups. It’s a recipe that never fails to impress, and it’s surprisingly simple to pull together. Let these roll ups become your new family favorite!
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Pizza Chicken Roll Ups Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Pizza Chicken Roll Ups are a delicious twist on traditional chicken dishes. Stuffed with gooey mozzarella cheese, savory pepperoni, and baked to perfection with marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese, they are a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Roll Ups:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 8 slices mozzarella cheese
- 20–24 slices pepperoni
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Chopped fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare Chicken: Season pounded chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add mozzarella and pepperoni slices, roll up tightly, and secure with toothpicks.
- Sear Chicken: Sear the chicken roll ups in olive oil until browned.
- Bake: Transfer to a baking dish, top with marinara sauce and Parmesan cheese, and bake until cooked through and cheese is melted.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the roll ups rest, then garnish with basil or parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey pepperoni or add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for variety.
- Serve with pasta, zoodles, or a green salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll up
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
