It is 6pm and the house is chilly. You want something warm and cheesy. These Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups are the answer. They are simple to make and feel very special. Your whole family will love every bite. This dish is the perfect winter comfort. It is hearty and satisfying for a cold night. You will love how easy it is. Let’s get cooking together!
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total game changer for your weekly routine. It feels like a fancy meal. However, it uses very basic ingredients. You can find everything at your local store. It is a great way to get kids to eat broccoli. They will be too busy enjoying the cheese. This dish is also naturally low in carbs. It fits perfectly into a healthy reset. You get all the flavor without the guilt. It is a budget-friendly option too. Feeding a family can be expensive. This meal keeps costs low. It uses simple pantry staples you likely have.
How to Make Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups
You will start by prepping your chicken breasts. Pounding them thin is actually quite therapeutic. It ensures the meat stays tender and juicy. This step is key for even cooking. Then you mix your simple filling. You only need one medium bowl. Rolling them up takes just a minute. You can use toothpicks for this. They keep the cheese inside. The sear-to-bake method is best. It gives you a crispy golden outside. The oven then melts everything perfectly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are mostly pantry staples you already own.
- 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 cups finely chopped steamed broccoli florets
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/4 inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Spread approximately 1/4 of the broccoli and cheese mixture onto the center of each flattened chicken breast.
- Roll each breast tightly starting from the small end and secure with toothpicks or butcher’s twine.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken rolls for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and slicing.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve these rolls warm from the oven. They look beautiful on a white platter. Pair them with a side of fluffy rice. A simple garden salad is also great. You could even try roasted potatoes. Light a candle for a cozy vibe. This is great for a weeknight. It also works for a casual date night. Your partner will be very impressed. The melted cheese looks so inviting.
Keep It Fresh
Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge for three days. They make a fantastic lunch the next day. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F. This keeps the chicken from getting rubbery. It also makes the cheese melty again. You can even prep the rolls early. Assemble them the night before. Keep them covered in the fridge. This saves so much stress on busy nights.
Tips for Best Results
- Pound the chicken to an even 1/4 inch thickness.
- Do not overstuff the chicken rolls or cheese leaks.
- Use sharp cheddar for a big flavor punch.
- Secure the ends tightly with toothpicks before searing.
- For a quick weeknight shortcut, use pre-chopped broccoli.
- Always let the chicken rest for five minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are done.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap cheddar for pepper jack for spice.
- In summer, use thin asparagus instead of broccoli.
- Use dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Add cooked bacon bits for extra saltiness.
Common Questions
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, you can certainly use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw it completely first. Then, squeeze out all the extra water. Excess moisture will make the chicken soggy.
How do I know when it is done?
The chicken should reach 165°F inside. Use a digital meat thermometer to check. The outside should be a beautiful golden brown. The cheese will be bubbly and delicious.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this is a great make-ahead meal. You can roll the chicken in the morning. Keep them in the fridge until dinner. This makes the evening much smoother.
I hope these cheesy rollups bring warmth to your table tonight. They are a true family favorite in my kitchen. Happy cooking!
— Lidia
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups
Ingredients
- 4 large boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1.5 cups finely chopped steamed broccoli florets
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/4 inch thickness using a meat mallet.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper.
- Spread approximately 1/4 of the broccoli and cheese mixture onto the center of each flattened chicken breast.
- Roll each breast tightly starting from the small end and secure with toothpicks or butcher's twine.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken rolls for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and slicing.
