
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups
Description
Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Rollups offer a flavorful twist on a classic chicken dish, combining tender chicken breasts with a creamy, cheesy broccoli filling. This recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special meal to impress guests. With crispy cracker coating and a delicious creamy center, these rollups are both visually appealing and irresistibly tasty.
Ingredients
For 6 servings:
- 3 ½ cups broccoli (525 g), finely chopped, divided
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (200 g)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 8 oz cream cheese (225 g), 1 package, softened
- 3 chicken breasts
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 14 oz cheddar crackers (390 g), 1 package
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (125 g)
- 2 eggs
Instructions
1. Prepare the Broccoli Cheese Mixture:
In a small bowl, microwave 1½ cups (225 g) of broccoli for 1 minute. Combine with shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and softened cream cheese. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
On a cutting board, butterfly the chicken breasts to create 6 thinner cutlets. Cover with plastic wrap and tenderize by beating with a rolling pin or heavy pan. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the Rollups:
Spread a scoop of the broccoli cheddar mixture over each chicken cutlet. Roll the chicken up tightly from the tapered end and secure with toothpicks. Repeat for all chicken pieces.
4. Prepare the Coating:
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Crush the cheddar crackers in a plastic bag until they resemble coarse crumbs. Mix with the remaining chopped broccoli in a large bowl.
5. Bread the Chicken:
Place flour in a medium bowl and whisk eggs in another. Coat each chicken roll in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with the broccoli cracker mixture. Repeat for each roll.
6. Bake the Rollups:
Transfer the coated chicken rolls to the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the coating is golden brown. Let cool slightly and remove toothpicks before serving.
Notes
Serving Tips:
- Allow to Cool Slightly: After baking, let the chicken rollups cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to remove the toothpicks.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or additional shredded cheese for added visual appeal and flavor.
- Pair with Sides: These rollups pair well with side dishes like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a crisp salad. They also make a great accompaniment to a side of dipping sauce or gravy.
- Serving Temperature: Serve the rollups warm for the best taste and texture. They can also be enjoyed at room temperature if you’re preparing them in advance for a party or gathering.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken rollups in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the rollups. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
- Reheating: To reheat leftovers, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This helps maintain the crispiness of the coating. You can also reheat them in a microwave, though they may not be as crispy.
- Avoid Over-Storing: For best results, try to only store what you will use within a few days to maintain the best quality and texture of the rollups.