There’s something magical about a recipe that combines tender chicken, rich cheese, and a creamy sauce all baked together into pure comfort food. These Chicken Roll-Ups in Creamy Cheese Sauce deliver exactly that — a melt-in-your-mouth, family-friendly dish that’s as satisfying as it looks. Each roll-up is stuffed with a cheesy chicken filling, then smothered in a silky cream sauce that bubbles to perfection in the oven. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or even guests, this dish always impresses.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- ½ cup cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
For the Roll-Ups:
- 8 small flour tortillas or thin crepes (you can also use lasagna sheets if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing
For the Creamy Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional)
How to Make Chicken Roll-Ups in Creamy Cheese Sauce
1. Prepare the filling
In a skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the shredded cooked chicken to the pan and stir well. Turn off the heat and mix in the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella or cheddar, salt, and black pepper. If you like a touch of freshness, fold in the chopped parsley. The mixture should be creamy and easy to spread. Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Assemble the roll-ups
Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2–3 tablespoons of the chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla. Roll tightly and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
You can lightly brush the tops with olive oil for a golden finish.
3. Make the creamy cheese sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth paste. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once the mixture thickens slightly, add the heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
4. Combine and bake
Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the prepared chicken roll-ups, covering them completely. Sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top if you want a golden, bubbly finish.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
5. Serve and enjoy
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.
These creamy chicken roll-ups pair beautifully with steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Roll-Ups
- Use leftover chicken: Rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken works perfectly and saves time.
- Add vegetables: You can mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers with the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- Tortilla alternatives: Try thin crepes for a softer, more delicate roll or cooked lasagna noodles for an Italian-style twist.
- Make ahead: Assemble the roll-ups a few hours early, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these roll-ups with a side of buttered rice, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal. For an elegant dinner, drizzle extra sauce on top and sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan before serving.
If you’re feeding a crowd, double the recipe and bake in a large casserole dish — it’s a guaranteed hit at potlucks and family gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze the roll-ups before baking. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add sauce, and bake fresh.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe combines all the comforting flavors of creamy casseroles and cheesy chicken dishes into one elegant, easy-to-serve presentation. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners yet rich enough for special occasions. The creamy sauce soaks into the tender tortillas, while the cheesy filling melts together into a deliciously savory bite that’s impossible to resist.