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Chicken Lasagna Rolls

Lasagna Rolls with Chicken: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

Lasagna rolls with chicken are a delightful variation of the traditional lasagna that brings together the rich flavors of lasagna in an easy-to-serve and visually appealing format. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or hosting guests for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about preparing chicken lasagna rolls, from the ingredients to the step-by-step preparation, and even some tips for customizing and serving the dish.

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Why Choose Lasagna Rolls with Chicken?

Lasagna rolls offer several advantages over traditional layered lasagna:

  1. Portion Control: Individual rolls are easier to portion out, making serving simple and precise.
  2. Customizable Flavors: Each roll can be tailored with different fillings or toppings, catering to varied preferences.
  3. Elegant Presentation: The rolled shape is visually striking and perfect for plated meals.
  4. Quick Serving and Storage: They are easier to store and reheat, making them ideal for meal prep or leftovers.

Adding chicken as the main protein introduces a lean yet flavorful twist, appealing to those who prefer a lighter alternative to beef or pork.

Ingredients

To make lasagna rolls with chicken, you will need the following:

For the Filling:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie chicken works great).
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese.
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten.
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped and sautéed (optional).
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced.
  • ½ tsp dried basil.
  • ½ tsp dried oregano.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste.

For the Pasta:

  • 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions until al dente.

For the Sauce:

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade).
  • ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy sauce).

For Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish).

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
  2. Add the beaten egg, minced garlic, sautéed spinach (if using), dried basil, and oregano.
  3. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles

  1. Cook the lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions.
  2. Drain and lay the noodles flat on a clean surface or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking.
  3. Lay a lasagna noodle flat, and spread 2–3 tablespoons of the filling evenly along its length.
  4. Carefully roll the noodle from one end to the other, creating a tight roll.
  5. Place the roll seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles and filling.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese

  1. Pour the marinara sauce (mixed with cream, if desired) over the rolls, ensuring each roll is covered.
  2. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  3. Allow the lasagna rolls to cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips for Customization

  1. Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini into the filling for extra nutrients and flavor.
  2. Switch the Protein: Replace chicken with ground turkey, shredded beef, or a vegetarian option like crumbled tofu.
  3. Experiment with Sauces: Swap marinara sauce for Alfredo or pesto for a different taste profile.
  4. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the filling or sauce for a spicy kick.
  5. Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Use a mix of cheeses such as Gruyère, cheddar, or fontina for a richer flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Lasagna rolls with chicken pair wonderfully with:

  • A crisp green salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the rolls.
  • Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
  • Roasted vegetables: A simple side of roasted broccoli, carrots, or asparagus complements the meal beautifully.
  • A glass of wine: A light white like Chardonnay or a medium-bodied red like Merlot enhances the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating

  1. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  2. Freezing: Place individual rolls in a freezer-safe container with sauce, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  3. Reheating: Warm the rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in a covered dish for 2–3 minutes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories ~320 kcal
Protein 25 g
Carbohydrates 25 g
Fat 12 g
Saturated Fat 6 g
Fiber 3 g
Sodium 520 mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Conclusion

Lasagna rolls with chicken are a versatile and satisfying dish that elevates the traditional lasagna into an elegant and approachable meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, they offer a balance of creamy, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite. With the ability to customize and adapt the recipe to suit personal tastes, this dish is bound to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Try this recipe today, and enjoy the rich comfort of lasagna rolls with chicken!

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