Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Roll Ups Recipe

Introduction

Spinach and artichoke dip is a crowd favorite—creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Now imagine that iconic dip stuffed into tender, juicy chicken breasts and baked until golden, bubbling, and irresistible. That’s exactly what you get with Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Roll-Ups.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Filling

1. Cook the Spinach:

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   • If using fresh spinach, sauté in a pan with a splash of water until wilted (about 2–3 cups raw spinach to yield 1 cup cooked). Let it cool and squeeze out excess water.

   • If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture.

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   • In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, chopped artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, and mayo.

   • Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic, and seasonings. Mix well until creamy and fully incorporated.

     Mix the Filling:

Step 2: Preparing the Chicken

1. Butterfly and Flatten:

   • Butterfly the chicken breasts horizontally (slice in half without cutting all the way through), then pound them with a meat mallet between two sheets of plastic wrap to about 1/4-inch thickness.

2. Season:

   • Sprinkle both sides of the chicken cutlets with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Rolling and Assembly

1. Add the Filling:

   • Place 2–3 tablespoons of the spinach-artichoke mixture at the center of each chicken piece.

2. Roll Tightly:

   • Carefully roll up each chicken breast and secure it with toothpicks or tie with kitchen twine.

3. Optional Searing (for extra flavor):

   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roll-ups for 1–2 minutes on each side until lightly golden. This step is optional but adds great flavor.

Step 4: Baking the Roll-Ups

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare Baking Dish:

   • Lightly grease a baking dish and place the roll-ups seam-side down.

3. Optional Sauce:

   • Pour your prepared garlic cream sauce (recipe below) or Alfredo sauce over the roll-ups before baking.

4. Bake:

   • Cover with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until chicken is fully cooked (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C).

5. Broil (Optional):

   • Remove foil and broil on high for 2–3 minutes to get a golden top. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Sauce Options

Garlic Cream Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.

3. Stir in flour to make a roux. Cook for 1 minute.

4. Gradually add milk while whisking. Cook until thickened.

5. Stir in Parmesan, season with salt and pepper.

Other Sauce Ideas:

• Jarred Alfredo sauce

• Tomato cream sauce

• Pesto cream

• Lemon-butter sauce (brightens it up!)

Variations

1. Low-Carb / Keto Friendly:

• This dish is already keto-friendly—just use full-fat ingredients and skip flour-based sauces.

2. Gluten-Free:

• Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch in the cream sauce.

3. Dairy-Free:

• Use vegan mayo, dairy-free cream cheese, and omit cheese or substitute with vegan versions.

4. Protein Swaps:

• Use thin pork chops or turkey cutlets instead of chicken.

5. Add-Ons:

• Sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or caramelized onions inside the filling.

Tips & Tricks

• Pound Chicken Evenly: Thinner pieces roll better and cook evenly.

• Toothpicks Out: Remember to remove them before serving!

• Drain Well: Make sure spinach and artichokes are well drained to avoid watery filling.

• Cheese Matters: Use high-quality cheese for best flavor and melt.

• Make Ahead: Assemble roll-ups up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate before baking.

What to Serve It With

• Starch Options:

  • Creamy mashed potatoes

  • Garlic butter pasta

  • Rice pilaf

  • Cauliflower mash (for low carb)

• Vegetables:

  • Roasted asparagus or green beans

  • Steamed broccoli

  • Zucchini noodles

• Salads:

  • Caesar salad

  • Arugula with lemon vinaigrette

  • Greek salad

Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• Wrap tightly in foil and store in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.

• Thaw in fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

• Oven: 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes, covered.

• Microwave: 1–2 minutes per piece, but can cause cheese separation.

Conclusion

These Creamy Spinach Artichoke Chicken Roll-Ups are a flavorful twist on a classic dip that’s transformed into a complete, satisfying dish. With their cheesy, garlicky filling and tender baked chicken, they’re both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a dinner party, or prepping meals ahead of time, this recipe brings together ease, elegance, and flavor in every bite.