If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, ooey-gooey cheese, and that irresistible salty crunch of pancetta, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Cheesy Pancetta Wrapped Chicken Rollups Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of tender chicken wrapped around creamy herby cheese, then hugged by crispy pancetta, making every bite a delightful medley of textures and tastes. This dish is wonderful for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you want to impress guests with something both simple and spectacular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you—each one plays a crucial role in creating the delicious taste, vibrant texture, and inviting aroma of these chicken rollups. From the rich cheeses to the savory pancetta and fragrant herbs, you’ll see how they all come together in harmony.
- 8 boneless chicken cutlets: The perfect canvas for rolling and stuffing with cheese and pancetta.
- Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavor of the chicken.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a subtle spice and depth to every bite.
- ½ teaspoon favorite herb blend: Choose blends with thyme or rosemary to complement the rollups with fresh, earthy notes.
- 1 (5.2 oz) package Boursin cheese or homemade herb cheese blend: Creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a cheesy, herby center.
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella: Melts beautifully inside, adding stretch and richness.
- 8 slices pancetta: This salty, crisp wrapping keeps all those wonderful flavors sealed in and adds fantastic texture.
How to Make Cheesy Pancetta Wrapped Chicken Rollups Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s nice and hot for perfectly cooked chicken. Lightly spray your baking dish with baking spray to prevent sticking while letting the pancetta crisp up beautifully during baking.
Step 2: Season and Stuff the Chicken
Pat each chicken cutlet dry, which helps the seasoning stick and creates a better texture. Season both sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. On the widest end of each cutlet, dollop about a teaspoon of the creamy Boursin cheese, then sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella over it. This cheesy combo delivers that irresistible creamy center you’ll love.
Step 3: Roll and Wrap with Pancetta
Gently roll up each chicken cutlet starting from the cheese-loaded end, so every bite has that cheesy goodness. Wrap each rollup tightly with one slice of pancetta to seal it in. Arrange the rolls seam-side down in your prepared baking dish to prevent them from unraveling. For a flavor boost and beautiful aroma, brush each rollup lightly with olive oil and sprinkle your favorite herb blend on top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake your chicken rollups for about 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 160°F to ensure juicy, fully cooked chicken. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and cover lightly with foil to let the rollups rest for 5 to 10 minutes — this rest step is key to locking in the juices and melting the cheese perfectly.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
After the resting period, your Cheesy Pancetta Wrapped Chicken Rollups Recipe is ready to delight. Serve them warm and prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Cheesy Pancetta Wrapped Chicken Rollups Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or basil over the rollups for a pop of color and fresh flavor that balances the rich cheese and pancetta. A light drizzle of balsamic glaze or a squeeze of lemon can also elevate the dish with bright, tangy notes.
Side Dishes
These cheesy rollups pair beautifully with simple sides like garlic roasted asparagus, a crisp green salad, or buttery mashed potatoes. For a more indulgent meal, creamy risotto or herbed quinoa work wonders to soak up any tasty juices left behind.
Creative Ways to Present
To wow your guests, slice the rollups diagonally and arrange them like little pinwheels on a platter. For an elegant touch, drizzle a little olive oil infused with fresh herbs around the serving plate or accompany with a small bowl of marinara for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen overnight, making your next meal just as tasty.
Freezing
You can freeze these chicken rollups before baking or after they’re cooked. Wrap each rollup individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through and the pancetta regains its crispness, about 15–20 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the pancetta soggy and the chicken unevenly heated.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of Boursin?
Absolutely! Cream cheese mixed with fresh herbs or goat cheese work wonderfully as creamy fillings if you want to switch things up from Boursin.
Is pancetta necessary, or can I substitute it?
Pancetta adds a unique salty crunch, but prosciutto or thinly sliced bacon can be excellent substitutes that bring similar flavor and texture.
Can I prepare these rollups ahead of time and bake later?
Yes! You can assemble the rollups, wrap them in pancetta, and refrigerate them overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re heated through.
What if I don’t have an herb blend? What herbs should I use?
If you don’t have a pre-mixed herb blend, a combination of dried thyme, rosemary, and oregano works beautifully and complements the pancetta and cheese flavors.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked properly?
The safest and most reliable method is using a meat thermometer. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for juicy, fully cooked meat.
Final Thoughts
If you love meals that balance creamy, salty, and savory flavors with a touch of elegance, the Cheesy Pancetta Wrapped Chicken Rollups Recipe is bound to become a new favorite. It’s surprisingly simple to make yet feels like a restaurant-worthy dish perfect for sharing with family and friends. Go ahead and give it a try—you won’t regret it!
