Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls with Caramelized Onions

Let me tell you, weeknight dinners at our house can sometimes feel like a culinary tightrope walk – balancing deliciousness with speed and ease. We’re always on the lookout for recipes that are both exciting enough to banish dinner boredom and simple enough to actually pull off after a long day. That’s where these Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls with Caramelized Onions swooped in to save the day (and many evenings since!). The first time I made them, I was a little intimidated by the “stuffed” and “caramelized” aspects, but honestly, they were surprisingly straightforward. The aroma while the onions were slowly caramelizing was intoxicating, and the cheesy, flavorful filling combined with the tender chicken was just divine. Even my picky eaters devoured them – a resounding stamp of approval! These chicken rolls have become a regular feature on our dinner table, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you so you can experience the same deliciousness and ease in your own kitchen. Get ready for a dish that’s guaranteed to impress without stressing you out!

Ingredients

To create these mouthwatering Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls with Caramelized Onions, you’ll need a handful of readily available ingredients. Let’s break them down:

For the Chicken Rolls:

• Chicken Breasts: 4 large, boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each) – Choose chicken breasts that are relatively uniform in size for even cooking and easier rolling.
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons – Used for searing the chicken rolls and adding a touch of richness. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall flavors. Use kosher salt or sea salt for best results.
• Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon – Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent and warm spice note that complements the other flavors.
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon – Adds a subtle smoky and slightly sweet flavor, as well as a beautiful reddish hue to the chicken. Smoked paprika can be used for a deeper smoky flavor.
• Garlic Powder: ½ teaspoon – Provides a savory garlic flavor that enhances the chicken and cheese filling.
• Italian Seasoning: 1 teaspoon – A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme, adding a classic Italian flavor profile.

For the Caramelized Onions:

• Yellow Onions: 2 large, thinly sliced – Yellow onions are ideal for caramelizing because they have a good balance of sweetness and sharpness. Thinly slicing them ensures they caramelize evenly and quickly.
• Butter: 2 tablespoons – Butter adds richness and flavor to the caramelized onions. You can use unsalted or salted butter, adjusting the salt in the recipe accordingly.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon – Adding a touch of olive oil to the butter prevents it from burning and also contributes to the flavor.
• Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon – Brown sugar enhances the sweetness of the onions and helps them caramelize beautifully. Light or dark brown sugar can be used.
• Balsamic Vinegar: 1 tablespoon – A touch of balsamic vinegar adds a tangy and slightly sweet complexity to the caramelized onions, balancing the richness.

For the Cheese Filling:

• Cream Cheese: 4 ounces, softened – Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the best flavor and texture. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: ½ cup – Sharp cheddar cheese provides a robust and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the cream cheese and caramelized onions. You can also use a mild or medium cheddar based on your preference.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: ½ cup – Mozzarella cheese adds a melty and gooey texture to the filling. Low-moisture mozzarella is best for cooking.
• Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped – Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous flavor and a pop of color to the cheese filling.

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these step-by-step instructions to create these delectable Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls with Caramelized Onions:

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

1. Prepare the Pan: In a large skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, melt the butter and olive oil over medium-low heat. Using a heavy-bottomed skillet helps distribute heat evenly and prevents scorching.
2. Add the Onions: Add the thinly sliced yellow onions to the skillet. Stir to coat them evenly with the butter and oil mixture.
3. Begin Caramelizing: Cook the onions over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 20-30 minutes. The key to perfect caramelized onions is patience and low heat. Initially, the onions will soften and become translucent.
4. Enhance the Caramelization: As the onions soften, they will start to turn golden brown. Reduce the heat to low if they are browning too quickly. Continue cooking and stirring, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits, known as “fond,” add depth of flavor.
5. Sweeten and Deglaze: Once the onions are deeply golden brown and caramelized, stir in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve and the balsamic vinegar to reduce slightly and create a glaze. The balsamic vinegar deglazes the pan, lifting up all the flavorful browned bits.
6. Set Aside: Remove the caramelized onions from the skillet and set aside in a bowl to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

1. Butterfly the Chicken: Place one chicken breast on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice horizontally through the center of the chicken breast, starting from the thicker side and stopping just before you cut all the way through. Open the chicken breast like a book to create a butterfly shape. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts. Butterflying the chicken breasts makes them thinner and easier to roll.
2. Pound the Chicken: Place 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 to ½-inch. Pounding the chicken ensures even cooking and tenderizes it.
3. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to create a seasoning blend.
4. Season Both Sides: Season both sides of each pounded chicken breast generously with the spice mixture. Make sure to distribute the seasoning evenly for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Filling

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped fresh parsley.
2. Mix Well: Using a fork or spatula, mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined and creamy. The cheese filling should be smooth and spreadable.

Step 4: Assemble the Chicken Rolls

1. Spread the Filling: Take one seasoned chicken breast and place it on a clean surface. Spread about ¼ of the cheese filling evenly over the chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Top with Caramelized Onions: Spoon about ¼ of the caramelized onions over the cheese filling, distributing them evenly.
3. Roll Up: Starting from one short end of the chicken breast, tightly roll it up like a jelly roll. Secure the roll with toothpicks if needed. Repeat with the remaining chicken breasts, cheese filling, and caramelized onions.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken Rolls

1. Sear the Chicken (Optional but Recommended): Heat the olive oil in the same skillet you used for the onions over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken rolls seam-side down in the skillet. Sear on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Searing adds color and flavor to the chicken rolls.
2. Bake the Chicken: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the seared chicken rolls (or unseared if you skipped searing) to a baking dish.
3. Bake until Cooked Through: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the chicken roll. The cheese filling should be melted and bubbly.
4. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken rolls from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Remove toothpicks before serving if used.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated, per serving, based on 4 servings. Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 550-650 kcal
• Protein: 50-60 grams
• Fat: 30-40 grams
• Saturated Fat: 15-20 grams
• Cholesterol: 200-250 mg
• Sodium: 500-700 mg

Preparation Time

• Active Time: 45 minutes (includes caramelizing onions, preparing chicken, and assembly)
• Cook Time: 25 minutes (baking time)
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

This recipe does require a bit of active time, mainly for caramelizing the onions and preparing the chicken, but the hands-on time is manageable. The baking time is relatively short, making it a feasible option for a weeknight dinner, especially if you can caramelize the onions ahead of time.

How to Serve Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls

These Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls with Caramelized Onions are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Alongside Roasted Vegetables:
  • Roasted Asparagus: A classic pairing, asparagus roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper offers a fresh and slightly bitter counterpoint to the rich chicken rolls.
  • Roasted Broccoli: Broccoli florets tossed with olive oil, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese roast beautifully and provide a healthy and flavorful side.
  • Roasted Brussels Sprouts: For a more robust flavor, roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze or bacon bits complement the caramelized onions in the chicken rolls.
  • Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and sweet potatoes roasted together with herbs like thyme and rosemary offer a hearty and colorful side dish.
• With Creamy Mashed Potatoes or Polenta:
  • Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting and classic side that soaks up the delicious sauce from the chicken rolls.
  • Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta with parmesan cheese or fontina offers a smooth and flavorful base that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the chicken.
• Served with a Fresh Salad:
  • Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the richness of the chicken rolls.
  • Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing adds a creamy and tangy element.
  • Spinach Salad with Berries and Goat Cheese: A spinach salad with fresh berries, goat cheese, and a balsamic vinaigrette offers a vibrant and flavorful salad option.
• Paired with Grains:
  • Quinoa: Fluffy quinoa, cooked with vegetable broth or chicken broth, provides a healthy and nutritious side dish.
  • Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf with herbs and vegetables adds a comforting and aromatic element to the meal.
  • Couscous: Light and fluffy couscous, seasoned with herbs and lemon juice, offers a quick and easy side dish option.
• With a Complementary Sauce (Optional):
  • Creamy Dijon Mustard Sauce: A creamy sauce made with Dijon mustard, cream, and a touch of white wine or chicken broth can enhance the savory flavors of the chicken rolls.
  • Mushroom Cream Sauce: A rich mushroom cream sauce adds an earthy and decadent element to the dish.
  • Lemon Butter Sauce: A simple lemon butter sauce with fresh herbs provides a bright and tangy counterpoint to the richness of the chicken rolls.

Additional Tips for Perfect Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls

To ensure your Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls with Caramelized Onions are a resounding success, here are eight helpful tips:

1. Don’t Rush the Onions: Caramelizing onions is a process that requires patience. Cook them over low heat and allow them to slowly develop their natural sweetness and deep brown color. Rushing the process will result in burnt or unevenly caramelized onions.
2. Pound Chicken Evenly: Pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness is crucial for even cooking. Uneven thickness can lead to some parts of the chicken being overcooked while others are still undercooked.
3. Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened to room temperature before mixing it with the other cheese filling ingredients. This will ensure a smooth and creamy filling that is easy to spread.
4. Don’t Overfill the Chicken: Avoid overfilling the chicken breasts with the cheese and onion mixture. Overfilling can make the rolls difficult to roll and may cause the filling to leak out during cooking.
5. Secure Rolls Tightly: Roll the chicken rolls tightly to prevent them from unraveling during cooking. Using toothpicks to secure them is helpful, especially if you are new to making stuffed chicken rolls. Remember to remove the toothpicks before serving.
6. Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional but Recommended): Searing the chicken rolls before baking adds a beautiful golden-brown crust and enhances the flavor. This step is optional but highly recommended for a more flavorful and visually appealing dish.
7. Check Internal Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This is the best way to ensure food safety and prevent dry chicken.
8. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the cooked chicken rolls to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls with Caramelized Onions:

Q1: Can I use different types of cheese in the filling?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses in the filling. Good alternatives include Gruyere, provolone, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of Italian cheeses. Consider using cheeses that melt well and complement the caramelized onions.

Q2: Can I add vegetables to the cheese filling?

A: Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to the cheese filling. Spinach (sautéed and squeezed dry), chopped sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or artichoke hearts would all be delicious additions. Just make sure to chop them finely and incorporate them evenly into the cheese mixture.

Q3: Can I prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken rolls ahead of time. You can assemble the rolls, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great make-ahead dish for busy weeknights or entertaining. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.

Q4: How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out while cooking?

A: To minimize cheese leakage, ensure you don’t overfill the chicken rolls and roll them tightly. Securing them with toothpicks can also help. Searing the rolls seam-side down initially can help seal them. Even with these precautions, a little cheese leakage is normal and won’t significantly impact the flavor.

Q5: What if I don’t have time to caramelize onions? Can I skip that step?

A: While caramelized onions are a key flavor component of this recipe, you can use sautéed onions as a quicker alternative if you are short on time. Sauté thinly sliced onions in butter and olive oil until softened and lightly golden, about 10-15 minutes. They won’t have the same deep sweetness as caramelized onions, but they will still add flavor.

Q6: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs as a substitute for chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are more forgiving and tend to stay moist during cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly as chicken thighs can take a bit longer to cook through.

Q7: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

A: The most reliable way to ensure the chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken roll, making sure not to touch the cheese filling. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Q8: What are some good side dishes to serve with these chicken rolls besides those already mentioned?

A: Beyond the suggestions above, other great side dishes include: steamed green beans with almonds, roasted garlic bread, creamy risotto, or a simple orzo pasta salad. Consider sides that complement the richness of the chicken rolls without being too heavy.

These Cheesy Stuffed Chicken Rolls with Caramelized Onions are a delightful and surprisingly easy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With their flavorful filling and tender chicken, they are sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire! Enjoy!

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