Ingredients:
- Chicken: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Cream Cheese Filling:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a rich, cheesy flavor)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (or green onions) for a burst of freshness
- Seasoning:
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Coating:
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers for added crunch)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter for a golden, crispy crust
- Garnish:
- Fresh parsley for a touch of color (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat Your Oven:
- Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare a baking dish by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Lay each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound the chicken until it is an even thickness, about ¼ inch.
- Season both sides of the chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This will infuse the chicken with a delightful flavor base.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped chives. Mix until all the ingredients are well blended and creamy.
- Assemble the Roll-Ups:
- Lay each chicken breast flat and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese filling on top.
- Carefully roll up each chicken breast, tucking in the filling as you go. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the rolls so they don’t come apart during baking.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs:
- Dip each chicken roll into the melted butter, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Roll each buttered chicken piece in the breadcrumbs or crushed crackers until fully coated. The buttery coating helps the crumbs stick and adds a crispy texture.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the chicken roll-ups in the prepared baking dish, seam side down.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot. These roll-ups pair beautifully with side dishes like fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Tips for Success:
- Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the roll-ups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the cream cheese filling, like dill or paprika, for a unique twist.
Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and savory chicken dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!