Chicken Roll Ups with Smoked Mozzarella and Bacon Recipe

Chicken Roll Ups with Smoked Mozzarella and Bacon combine the best of comforting, savory flavors with an elegant presentation that makes them perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or casual gatherings. This dish features tender chicken breasts carefully rolled around rich, smoky mozzarella and crispy bacon, creating a beautiful blend of textures and tastes that delight the palate with every bite.

The concept of stuffed chicken is timeless, offering endless variations to satisfy diverse cravings and dietary preferences. In this recipe, the addition of smoked mozzarella imparts a subtle, smoky creaminess that elevates the simple chicken breast to something extraordinary. Meanwhile, bacon adds a satisfying crunch and a savory saltiness that complements the mild chicken and luscious cheese perfectly.

Making chicken roll ups might sound like a technique reserved for experienced cooks, but this recipe breaks down each step into manageable, easy-to-follow instructions, ensuring even novice chefs can achieve impressive results. From pounding the chicken to the ideal thickness, to layering the filling and rolling it securely, every detail is covered to guarantee moist, flavorful chicken roll ups every time.

Besides their incredible flavor, these roll ups are also visually appealing, presenting beautifully sliced spirals that reveal the colorful layers inside. Whether served alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a creamy risotto, they bring sophistication and heartiness to the table.

This recipe also offers flexibility. You can customize fillings with herbs, different cheeses, or vegetables to suit your tastes. Plus, the cooking methods can be adapted to bake, pan-sear, or even grill the roll ups, depending on your preference and available equipment.

In the following sections, you will find a complete guide to ingredients, preparation techniques, assembly, cooking methods, and serving suggestions, all aimed at helping you master this delicious and satisfying dish. Tips on bacon preparation, cheese selection, and maintaining juicy chicken throughout the cooking process will be included to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Prepare to delight your family and guests with Chicken Roll Ups filled with smoky mozzarella and crisp bacon — a recipe that proves simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, create a truly memorable meal.

Detailed Instructions

Part 1: Prepare Your Ingredients and Tools

Ingredients:

• 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 8 slices smoked mozzarella (or enough to cover the chicken evenly)

• 8 slices bacon

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra smoky flavor)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil (for searing)

• Fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary), optional

• Toothpicks or kitchen twine (to secure rolls)

Tools:

• Meat mallet or rolling pin

• Plastic wrap or parchment paper (for pounding chicken)

• Sharp knife

• Cutting board

• Large skillet or frying pan

• Baking dish (if finishing in oven)

• Tongs

• Instant-read thermometer (for checking doneness)

Part 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Step 1: Butterfly the Chicken

• Place a chicken breast flat on the cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally through the thickest side, cutting almost through but leaving a hinge so it opens like a book.

• Repeat with all breasts.

Step 2: Pound the Chicken

• Lay each butterflied chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper.

• Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about ¼ inch (6 mm).

• This step ensures even cooking and makes the chicken easier to roll.

Part 3: Season the Chicken

• Season both sides of the flattened chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using.

• Be sure to season lightly but evenly for balanced flavor.

Part 4: Layer the Fillings

• On each chicken breast, lay 2 slices of smoked mozzarella evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges.

• Then place 2 slices of bacon on top of the cheese, slightly overlapping if needed.

• If using fresh herbs, sprinkle them evenly over the bacon.

Part 5: Roll the Chicken

• Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the chicken breast tightly but gently to avoid squeezing out the filling.

• Secure each roll with toothpicks or tie loosely with kitchen twine to keep the roll intact during cooking.

Part 6: Sear the Roll Ups

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

• When the oil shimmers, place the chicken rolls seam side down in the pan.

• Sear for 3–4 minutes until golden brown and crisp.

• Carefully rotate to brown all sides, about 8–10 minutes total.

Part 7: Finish Cooking

Option 1: Oven Finish

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Transfer the seared roll ups to a baking dish.

• Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

• This ensures the chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.

Option 2: Covered Skillet

• After searing, reduce heat to medium-low.

• Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

Part 8: Rest and Serve

• Remove the chicken roll ups from heat and let rest for 5 minutes.

• Remove toothpicks or twine carefully.

• Slice into medallions or serve whole.

• Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of pan juices if desired.

Part 9: Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

• A light pan sauce made with white wine, garlic, and herbs can complement the dish beautifully.