Description
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken Rolls
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4 oz cream cheese, softened
4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 cup crushed cornflakes
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Prep the filling: In a bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and ranch seasoning. Set aside.
Prepare chicken: Pound each chicken breast to 1/4-inch thickness. Season with salt and pepper.
Stuff the chicken: Place a spoonful of the filling onto each chicken breast. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.
Bread the rolls: Coat each roll in flour, dip in beaten eggs, then roll in a mix of crushed cornflakes and Parmesan cheese.
Bake: Place rolls on a greased baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
Serve: Remove toothpicks, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect rolls. First, ensure your cream cheese is truly softened for a smooth filling. Pound the chicken breasts between plastic wrap until uniformly thin. Divide the filling evenly, placing it in the center of each breast. To roll, fold in the sides first, then roll from the bottom up tightly. Use 2-3 toothpicks per roll, inserting them at an angle to secure well. For the breading, use one hand for dry coatings (flour, cornflake mix) and the other for the wet egg to keep fingers clean. Place the breaded rolls seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
These rich and flavorful chicken rolls pair beautifully with lighter sides to balance the meal. Consider serving them alongside a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed green beans or asparagus, or garlic mashed cauliflower. For a more indulgent comfort food plate, classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or a simple rice pilaf are excellent choices. Drizzle with a little extra ranch dressing or a cool sour cream dip if desired.
How-to Summary
Create a bacon-ranch-cheese filling. Pound chicken thin, season, and add filling. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks. Bread using a standard flour, egg, and cornflake-Parmesan coating. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Always allow the rolls to rest for 5 minutes before removing toothpicks and slicing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble and bread the rolls up to a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving. The breading may soften slightly but will crisp up in the oven.
Can I use a different seasoning? Absolutely. If you don’t have ranch seasoning, a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and a pinch of salt and pepper makes a good substitute.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? The safest method is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of a roll; it should read 165°F (74°C). The exterior should be golden brown.
Can I use an air fryer? You can. Cook at 375°F, turning halfway through, for about 18-22 minutes. Ensure they are not touching for proper air circulation.
What can I use instead of cornflakes? Panko breadcrumbs make a great crunchy alternative. For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overfilling the chicken breasts, as this will cause the filling to leak out during baking. Do not skip pounding the chicken to an even thickness; this ensures even cooking and makes rolling easier. Ensure your baked bacon is well-crumbled and not in large chewy pieces. Finally, do not forget to remove the toothpicks before serving—a crucial step for safety.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken Rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfectly combining beloved flavors into an impressive yet straightforward dinner. The step-by-step process is simple to master, and the recipe is adaptable to your preferences. By following the tips and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a delicious, crispy, and juicy meal that feels special any night of the week. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!