There’s something magical about putting a fun twist on a classic, and these Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls are proof that a weeknight dinner can feel truly special. Imagine tender chicken enveloping gooey mozzarella and sharp Parmesan, finished with a crunchy golden crust and smothered in rich marinara — all rolled up into a delicious bundle that’s as impressive as it is comforting. Whether you’re cooking for friends or family, Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls deliver that nostalgic Italian flavor, with a crispy finish and cheesy center that everyone will love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The brilliance of Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls is that they rely on simple, accessible ingredients — each one plays a crucial role, from the juiciness of the chicken to the melty cheeses and vibrant sauce. Don’t skip the little details; they all work together to create layers of flavor and unbeatable texture.
- Chicken breasts: Go for boneless, skinless and pound them thin; this makes rolling a breeze and ensures even cooking.
- Mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded is especially gooey and melts beautifully inside each roll.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds sharp, salty depth and classic Italian flair.
- Marinara sauce: Use your favorite jarred brand or homemade; it provides moisture, acidity, and bursts of tomato flavor.
- Italian-style breadcrumbs: They give that irresistible crunchy coating and savory herby notes.
- All-purpose flour: Helps the egg mixture stick to the chicken so the breadcrumbs can form an even crust.
- Eggs: The glue that holds the coating together; large eggs work perfectly.
- Water: Just a splash thins the eggs for easier coating.
- Garlic powder: Subtle garlicky goodness that infuses every bite.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings authentic flavor to both the chicken and the crust.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing every component.
- Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth; freshly cracked is best.
- Olive oil: For searing the rolls so they crisp up before baking.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): A bright, fresh garnish that adds color and a final burst of herbiness.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by gently pounding the chicken breasts to an even thinness; a meat mallet or rolling pin makes this easy. Even thickness not only helps the rolls cook evenly, it also makes them easier to fill and roll. Slice them lengthwise, giving you four pieces ready to get packed with flavor.
Step 2: Season Every Layer
Sprinkle both sides of the chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Massaging the spices directly into the meat means every bite will taste delicious, not just the outside!
Step 3: Add Marinara and Cheese Filling
Spread a generous spoonful of marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, then top with a hearty sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan. You want enough filling for that oozing, cheesy effect — but not so much that it spills out as you roll.
Step 4: Roll and Secure
With gentle hands, roll each chicken piece tightly from one end to the other, tucking in the filling as you go. Secure each roll with a toothpick if you want them extra tidy — just remember to remove these before serving!
Step 5: Set Up the Dredging Station
Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs and water, and a third filled with breadcrumbs. Coat each chicken roll in flour first (tap off excess), then dip in the egg mixture, and finally roll in breadcrumbs until fully coated.
Step 6: Sear for Crunch
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high. Once shimmering, add the chicken rolls and sear on all sides until a golden, crispy crust forms. This step packs in flavor and locks in juiciness.
Step 7: Bake to Gooey Perfection
Transfer the skillet straight to the preheated oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted to perfection. The aroma that fills your kitchen will make it nearly impossible to wait!
Step 8: Finish and Garnish
Remove any toothpicks, then spoon a little extra marinara over each roll and scatter fresh basil or parsley on top. It’s time to plate up these Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls and enjoy every bite.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls
Garnishes
A pop of fresh basil or chopped parsley adds a beautiful, fragrant finish to Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls. For a dash of color and a hint of Italian flair, grate a little extra Parmesan over the top just before serving.
Side Dishes
Serve these rolls alongside buttery garlic bread, a tangle of spaghetti, or a crisp green salad for balance. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini are wonderful if you’re craving a lighter plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice each roll into medallions and arrange them over a pool of marinara, or stack them artfully for appetizer platters. Mini rolls make fantastic party bites, and kids love having their own perfectly portioned Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls keep brilliantly in the refrigerator. Place them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the coating as crispy as possible, avoid adding extra sauce until you’re ready to reheat.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze baked or unbaked rolls on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking or reheating.
Reheating
To recapture that irresistible crunch, reheat rolls in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes. Microwaving will soften the coating, but it works in a pinch. Cover loosely with foil if reheating from frozen to prevent over-browning.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be slightly juicier and richer in flavor. Just make sure to pound them thin so they roll up nicely — you may need to trim them for an even shape.
Can I make Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the regular flour and breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free varieties. The rolls will still be wonderfully crunchy and satisfying.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
No problem. After searing the rolls in a regular pan, transfer them to a baking dish before moving to the oven. It adds an extra step but works just as well.
Can I prep Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls the night before?
Definitely — assemble the rolls and keep them tightly covered in the fridge. When you’re ready, proceed with searing and baking for a practically effortless dinner.
How do I keep the cheese from leaking out?
Roll the chicken tightly and don’t overfill. Securing with toothpicks helps hold everything together. Some cheese may escape while baking, but that’s honestly part of the charm!
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to shake up your dinner routine and impress everyone at your table, Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls are a guaranteed winner. Homemade comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated — just delicious, cheese-filled, and a little bit fun. Give these a try, and watch them become a new favorite in your kitchen!
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Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Crispy Chicken Parmesan Rolls are a delicious twist on classic chicken Parmesan. Tender chicken breasts are filled with gooey cheese, rolled up, breaded, and baked until crispy. A perfect dish for a cozy Italian-inspired dinner at home.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Rolls:
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin and sliced in half lengthwise
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pound the chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness between plastic wrap. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Fill the chicken: Spread marinara on each piece, sprinkle with cheeses, and roll up.
- Dredge the rolls: Dip each roll in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs.
- Sear and bake: Sear the rolls, then bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes.
- Serve: Remove toothpicks, top with marinara, and garnish with herbs.
Notes
- You can prepare the rolls ahead and refrigerate before baking.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the marinara or use spicy mozzarella.
- Serve with pasta, salad, or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken roll
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
