This Chicken Roulade recipe is the ultimate way to transform simple chicken breast into an elegant, restaurant-quality dinner that’s perfect for entertaining or a special weeknight meal. Learn how to butterfly, stuff, and roll chicken breast with three delicious filling options broccoli cheddar bacon, spinach ricotta, and sun-dried tomato prosciutto all with expert tips to ensure your stuffed chicken breast turns out perfectly every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Restaurant-quality results at home with minimal effort
- Make-ahead friendly for stress-free entertaining
- Three filling variations to suit every taste preference
- Step-by-step visual guidance for foolproof rolling technique
Table of Contents
What is Chicken Roulade?
Chicken roulade is a classic French dish featuring boneless chicken breast that’s butterflied, pounded thin, filled with savory ingredients, rolled tightly, and then baked or pan-seared to golden perfection. The term “roulade” comes from the French word “rouler,” meaning “to roll.” This elegant rolled chicken breast can be stuffed with an endless variety of cheeses, vegetables, herbs, and cured meats, making it incredibly versatile for any occasion.
Ingredient Overview
Below is a quick reference for the core chicken preparation and three popular filling variations. Each filling brings unique flavors and textures to your chicken roulade recipe.
Base Chicken Preparation
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Kitchen twine or toothpicks for securing
Filling Option 1: Broccoli Cheddar Bacon
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 strips cooked crispy bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese (optional, for binding)
Filling Option 2: Spinach Ricotta Mushroom
- 1½ cups fresh spinach, wilted and squeezed dry
- ¾ cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup sautéed mushrooms, finely chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Pinch of nutmeg
Filling Option 3: Sun-Dried Tomato Prosciutto Basil
- 6 tablespoons marinated sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped
- 4-6 thin slices prosciutto
- 4 thin slices provolone or mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (about 8-10 leaves)
- 1 tablespoon pine nuts or walnuts (optional)
Step-By-Step Instructions
Make restaurant-quality Chicken Roulade at home with this step-by-step guide. Learn how to butterfly, stuff, and roll chicken breast with delicious fillings like broccoli cheddar bacon, spinach ricotta, or sun-dried tomato prosciutto for an impressive dinner.
Total Time: 45 minutes
Step 1: Butterfly and Pound the Chicken Breast
Place one chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally through the middle of the breast, stopping about ½ inch from the opposite edge so the breast opens like a book.
Place the butterflied chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even ¼-inch thickness. This ensures uniform cooking and makes rolling easier.
Pro Tip: Work from the center outward with gentle, even strokes to avoid tearing the meat.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chosen Stuffing
For Broccoli Cheddar Bacon: Mix steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and cream cheese in a bowl until well combined.
For Spinach Ricotta Mushroom: Combine wilted spinach, ricotta, sautéed mushrooms, Parmesan, garlic, and nutmeg in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
For Sun-Dried Tomato Prosciutto: Lay prosciutto slices on the chicken, top with cheese slices, scatter sun-dried tomatoes and basil leaves.
Step 3: Fill and Roll the Chicken
Season the pounded chicken breast with salt and pepper on both sides.
Spread your chosen filling evenly across the chicken, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges.
Starting from one short end, tightly roll the chicken breast, tucking in the sides as you go to create a neat cylinder.
Pro Tip: Rolling tightly prevents filling from leaking during cooking.
Step 4: Secure, Season, and Optionally Sear
Tie the rolled chicken with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals, or secure with toothpicks inserted at an angle.
Season the outside of each roulade with additional salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Optional Searing: For extra flavor and a golden crust, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each roulade on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 5: Bake to Perfect Doneness
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the chicken roulades on a parchment-lined baking sheet or in an oven-safe skillet.
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (it will rise to 165°F during resting).
Food Safety Note: According to the USDA, chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe to eat, which kills harmful bacteria like Salmonella and Campylobacter.
Estimated Cost: 15 USD
Supply:
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (6-8 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup steamed broccoli florets, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 strips cooked crispy bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- Kitchen twine or toothpicks
Tools:
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Meat mallet or rolling pin
- Plastic wrap or parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Kitchen twine
- Baking sheet or oven-safe skillet
- Instant-read meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil
- Serrated knife for slicing
Materials: Boneless skinless chicken breasts Olive oil Broccoli florets Sharp cheddar cheese Bacon strips Cream cheese Salt Black pepper
Stuffing Comparison Table
Choosing the right filling can elevate your chicken roulade from good to extraordinary. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| Filling Type | Flavor Profile | Prep Time | Nutrition Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Broccoli Cheddar Bacon | Rich, smoky, cheesy | 10 minutes | High protein, vitamin C from broccoli | Family dinners, comfort food lovers |
| Spinach Ricotta Mushroom | Earthy, creamy, mild | 12 minutes | Iron from spinach, calcium from ricotta | Vegetarian-friendly, Italian cuisine fans |
| Sun-Dried Tomato Prosciutto | Savory, tangy, herbaceous | 8 minutes | Antioxidants from tomatoes, lower carb | Elegant entertaining, Mediterranean flavors |
Sauce Pairings and Plating Ideas
A great sauce can transform your stuffed chicken breast into a truly memorable meal. Here are three easy options:
1. Creamy Dijon Wine Sauce
Deglaze your skillet with ½ cup white wine, add 1 cup heavy cream and 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard. Simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Pairs with: All three fillings, especially spinach ricotta.
2. Garlic Herb Butter Sauce
Melt 4 tablespoons butter with 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Drizzle over sliced roulades.
Pairs with: Sun-dried tomato prosciutto filling.
3. Light Lemon Yogurt Dip (Healthier Option)
Mix 1 cup Greek yogurt with zest of 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon fresh dill, 1 minced garlic clove, salt, and pepper.
Pairs with: Broccoli cheddar bacon for a lighter balance.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Chicken Roulade
Even Thickness is Key: Pound your chicken to a uniform ¼-inch thickness. Uneven chicken will cook at different rates, leading to dry spots.
Don’t Overfill: Too much filling will squeeze out during rolling and cooking. Use about ⅓ cup of filling per breast.
Secure Tightly: Kitchen twine is superior to toothpicks for maintaining shape during cooking. Tie at 1-inch intervals.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check internal temperature at the thickest part. Pull from oven at 160°F; carryover cooking will bring it to 165°F.
Rest Before Slicing: Resting allows juices to redistribute, preventing dry chicken. Wait at least 5 minutes.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Problem: Filling Leaks Out During Cooking
- Solution: Roll tighter, secure with more twine, and avoid overfilling. Searing helps seal the edges.
Problem: Chicken is Dry
- Solution: Don’t overcook remove at 160°F internal temperature. Consider brining chicken for 30 minutes before preparation.
Problem: Roulade Splits While Rolling
Problem: Uneven Cooking
- Solution: Make sure all roulades are similar in size and thickness. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking.
Printable Recipe Card For chicken scampi with garlic parmesan rice
See the “Jump to Recipe” or print-friendly card to save/share this recipe! (Implement full Recipe schema.)
Chicken Roulade with Broccoli Cheddar Bacon
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease an oven-safe skillet.
- Place one chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally through the middle of the breast, stopping about 1/2 inch from the opposite edge so it opens like a book. Place the butterflied chicken between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even 1/4-inch thickness, working from the center outward.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine the chopped steamed broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, cream cheese, and garlic powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Season both sides of each pounded chicken breast with salt and black pepper.
- Spread approximately 1/3 cup of the broccoli cheddar bacon filling evenly across the surface of each chicken breast, leaving a 1/2-inch border around all edges to prevent filling from leaking out during cooking.
- Starting from one short end, tightly roll the chicken breast away from you, tucking in the sides as you go to create a neat, compact cylinder. The tighter you roll, the better it will hold together during cooking.
- Tie the rolled chicken with kitchen twine at 1-inch intervals along the length of the roulade. Alternatively, secure with toothpicks inserted at an angle. Make sure the seam side is facing down.
- Drizzle each roulade with olive oil and season the outside with additional salt and pepper.
- For a golden crust and extra flavor, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each roulade on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is optional but highly recommended.
- Place the chicken roulades on the prepared baking sheet (or keep in the oven-safe skillet if you seared them). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the roulade reaches 160°F. The temperature will rise to 165°F during resting.
- Remove the chicken roulades from the oven and tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let rest for 5-10 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Remove the kitchen twine or toothpicks. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice each roulade into 3/4 to 1-inch thick rounds to showcase the beautiful spiral filling. Serve immediately with your favorite sauce and side dishes.
Notes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make chicken roulade ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the roulades completely, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze assembled roulades for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
How do I reheat leftover chicken roulade?
Reheat sliced roulade in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying. You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes on medium power.
Can I freeze cooked chicken roulade?
Yes. Cool completely, wrap each roulade individually in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed above.
What’s the best cheese for chicken roulade?
Cheddar, mozzarella, provolone, ricotta, and cream cheese all work beautifully. Choose based on your filling sharp cheddar for bacon, ricotta for spinach, and provolone for Italian-inspired fillings.
What should I serve with chicken roulade?
This elegant stuffed chicken breast pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green beans, wild rice pilaf, garlic bread, or a crisp Caesar salad.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
While chicken breasts are traditional due to their size and shape, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can work. They’re more forgiving and stay moist, but are harder to butterfly evenly.
How do I know when chicken roulade is done?
Use an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the roulade. It should read 160°F when removed from the oven, and will reach 165°F after resting.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Based on a single chicken breast roulade with broccoli cheddar bacon filling:
- Calories: 400-500 kcal
- Protein: 45-52g
- Fat: 18-26g (varies by cheese and filling)
- Carbohydrates: 4-8g
- Fiber: 1-2g
- Sodium: 500-700mg
Healthier Adaptations:
- Use low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese
- Skip bacon or use turkey bacon
- Add more vegetables to the filling
- Use cooking spray instead of olive oil for searing
Brief Culinary History
Chicken roulade is rooted in classic French cuisine, where “roulade” refers to any dish that’s rolled around a filling. While beef and veal roulades were popular in 19th-century European kitchens, chicken roulade emerged as a lighter, more accessible alternative during the 20th century. Today, this elegant rolled chicken breast has become a staple in home kitchens and fine dining restaurants across America, celebrated for its impressive presentation and endless flavor possibilities.
Related Recipes You’ll Love
Looking for more delicious chicken dinner ideas? Try these reader favorites:
- Chicken Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice (Easy One-Pan Recipe)
- Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Pasta – Creamy, Bold & Bursting with Flavor!
- Mini Chicken Pot Pie Muffins – The Cozy Bite-Sized Comfort Food You Need!
- Crunchy Cornflake Chicken Tenders (Better Than Takeout!)
- The Ultimate High Protein Chicken Salad Recipe: Healthy, Creamy & Delicious
Find these and more on YummyUmRecipes.com.
Author Bio
Recipe and photos by YummyUmRecipes.com. Dedicated to bringing you the best viral drink recipes, dessert ideas, and family-friendly food inspiration... Follow on Pinterest YumYum Foodie for daily recipes and creative kitchen tips.
