Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese (or a blend of mozzarella and cheddar)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or lightly coat it with olive oil.
- Prepare the chicken:
- Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness using a meat mallet or rolling pin. You can also butterfly the chicken breasts to make them thinner.
- Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and parsley.
- Make the filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese. Add 1/2 tsp garlic powder and some salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble the roll-ups:
- Place a generous spoonful of the cheese mixture in the center of each chicken breast.
- Roll the chicken up tightly, securing the filling inside. You can use toothpicks to hold them in place, if necessary.
- Cook the roll-ups:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken roll-ups and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds extra flavor and texture.
- Once seared, place the roll-ups into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare the sauce:
- In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream (or milk) and stir to combine with any browned bits left from searing the chicken. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Pour the cream mixture over the chicken roll-ups in the baking dish.
- Bake the roll-ups:
- Sprinkle a little more mozzarella cheese on top of the roll-ups.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked through (internal temperature should be 165°F or 75°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve warm with a side of veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your cheesy, savory chicken roll-ups!