These Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups are a fun twist on classic lasagna! You fill noodles with a tasty chicken and cheese mixture and then roll them up like little parcels of joy.
It’s like lasagna decided to put on a new outfit! I love how easy they are to bake and serve. Plus, they look fancy enough to impress guests, but simple enough for a cozy dinner at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Lasagna Noodles: Traditional lasagna noodles are thick and flat, perfect for rolling. You can use whole wheat noodles for a healthier version or gluten-free noodles if needed. Just be sure to check the cooking instructions, as cooking times may vary!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. If you have leftover chicken from another meal, feel free to use that. For a vegetarian option, try using cooked mushrooms or spinach instead of chicken.
Ricotta Cheese: This cheese adds creaminess to the filling. If you can’t find ricotta, cottage cheese works well too! Just blend it until smooth. For a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead to keep it creamy.
Mozzarella & Parmesan Cheese: Mozzarella gives that lovely stretchy cheese effect, while Parmesan adds a bit of sharpness. If you’re avoiding dairy, use a plant-based cheese substitute or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Do I Roll the Lasagna Noodles Without the Filling Falling Out?
Rolling lasagna noodles can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get it right every time. Here’s how to ensure everything stays inside:
- Make sure the noodles are cooked al dente; they should be firm yet flexible so they won’t tear easily.
- Spread the filling evenly but not too thick; about ⅓ cup per noodle is perfect. This helps in rolling them without spilling out the edges.
- Start rolling from one end tightly but gently. If you roll too tightly, the filling may squeeze out.
- Once rolled, place the seam side down in the baking dish so they stay secured while baking!
Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roll Ups:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped
- 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce, divided
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of baking time, so you can expect it to be ready to serve in under an hour! It’s a wonderful meal for any night of the week.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot for the lasagna roll-ups, helping them bake evenly.
2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
Next, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. This means they should be cooked but still firm. Once done, drain them and lay them flat on a clean towel to cool slightly.
3. Make the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded or chopped chicken, ricotta cheese, ½ cup of mozzarella, ¼ cup of Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of the greased baking dish. This will keep the roll-ups from sticking and add flavor!
5. Fill the Noodles:
Now, take one lasagna noodle and spread about ⅓ cup of your chicken and cheese mixture evenly over it. Be gentle, you want to keep the noodle intact!
6. Roll Them Up:
Carefully roll the filled noodle from one end to the other, making sure the mixture stays inside. Place the rolled noodle seam-side down in the baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining noodles and filling.
7. Top with Sauce and Cheese:
After placing all the rolled noodles snugly in the baking dish, pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Then sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese across the top for a delicious, cheesy finish.
8. Bake:
Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to let the cheese bubble up and turn golden brown.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done baking, allow the roll-ups to cool for about 5 minutes. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor. Now they’re ready to serve! Enjoy your scrumptious Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the roll-ups and place them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual roll-ups for a quick meal.
What If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
No worries! You can substitute with any tomato-based sauce, like spaghetti sauce or even a homemade tomato sauce. For a twist, try using Alfredo sauce for a creamy variation!
Could I Use Different Cheeses?
Definitely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses according to your preference. For example, you could use a combination of mozzarella, provolone, or even a bit of feta for a unique flavor. Just keep the total amount similar for the best results!