Are you ready to impress your family with a delicious dinner? These Creamy Chicken Pesto Lasagna Roll Ups take classic comfort food to a new level. With layers of tender noodles, juicy chicken, and rich pesto, every bite is a delight. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for any night. Let’s dive into this simple recipe that combines comfort and flavor in a delightful treat!
Ingredients
Complete Ingredient List
– 9 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup fresh basil pesto
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for drizzling
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Let’s dive into the delicious parts of this recipe! First, we need the lasagna noodles. These will be the base for our roll-ups. Next, the shredded chicken adds protein and flavor. Use cooked chicken for ease.
Ricotta cheese gives that creamy texture we love. Add mozzarella cheese for extra gooeyness. The star of the dish, fresh basil pesto, brings that lovely herb flavor.
We also need heavy cream to create a rich sauce. The grated Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty touch. Don’t forget the minced garlic for a burst of flavor.
Season with salt and pepper to make everything pop. A drizzle of olive oil adds richness. Finally, we will garnish with fresh basil leaves for a bright finish.
These ingredients blend to make a wonderful meal. For the full recipe, check the detailed instructions above!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
– Prepare the filling mixture.
To start, set your oven temperature. This step helps create that warm, cozy base for your dish. Next, boil your lasagna noodles. Make sure they are firm but tender. Drain them and lay them flat to avoid sticking. Then, mix your filling. Combine shredded chicken, ricotta, half the mozzarella, half the pesto, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well until it’s nice and smooth.
Assembly Process
– Spread filling on the cooked noodles.
– Roll up the noodles carefully.
Now, take each noodle and spread your filling evenly. Leave a bit of space at the edges. Roll each noodle from one end to the other, wrapping the filling snugly. This step is crucial for keeping the delicious filling inside.
Baking Instructions
– Layer the baking dish with sauce and roll-ups.
– Bake covered and then uncovered.
For baking, coat the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish with a bit of cream sauce. Place the roll-ups seam-side down. Pour the remaining cream sauce over them. Sprinkle more mozzarella on top. Drizzle with olive oil for a golden finish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes. You want the cheese bubbly and a lovely golden brown.
Enjoy the process of making creamy chicken pesto lasagna roll ups! For the full recipe, check the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To prevent sticking with lasagna noodles, cook them in plenty of salted water. Make sure to stir the noodles gently while they cook. After boiling, lay them flat on a clean towel to keep them separate. This step helps prevent sticking and makes rolling easier later.
Resting time is key before serving your roll-ups. Let them sit for five minutes after taking them out of the oven. This short wait helps the flavors meld together. It also makes serving easier and keeps the filling from spilling out.
Perfecting the Flavor
You might want to adjust the salt and pepper in your filling. Taste it before you roll the noodles. If you love garlic, add more minced garlic to boost the flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also add depth to the dish.
If you need substitutions, consider using ground turkey instead of chicken. For a vegetarian option, swap chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. You can also use cottage cheese in place of ricotta if that’s what you have.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your creamy chicken pesto lasagna roll-ups with a fresh salad. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works well. Garlic bread also makes a great side. It complements the creamy sauce nicely.
For presentation, serve the roll-ups on a large platter. Drizzle extra pesto over the top for color. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. This makes the dish look vibrant and inviting. For more tips, check the Full Recipe.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can switch up the protein in this dish. Try turkey for a leaner choice. If you want a vegetarian option, use spinach or mushrooms. Both options work great! You can also change the cheese. For a lighter option, try cottage cheese instead of ricotta. This swap keeps the creamy texture while cutting calories.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding veggies to the filling can make this dish even better. Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and nutrients. You can also mix in sun-dried tomatoes for a punch of flavor. For sauces, consider swapping the pesto with a creamy Alfredo or a rich tomato sauce. Different seasonings can change the taste too. Add red pepper flakes for heat or Italian herbs for depth.
Regional Twists
To make it Italian-inspired, use fresh basil and oregano. You can mix in some Italian sausage for a heartier roll-up. For a twist from another cuisine, try adding curry powder for an Indian flair. Fresh cilantro can brighten the dish, giving it a unique flavor. Don’t forget to play with herbs and spices to find your perfect mix!
For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store leftover roll-ups, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container. You can also use a glass dish with a lid. This keeps them fresh longer.
Reheating Instructions
For reheating, I suggest using the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the roll-ups in a baking dish. Cover them with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 20 minutes.
Freezing Guidance
You can freeze these roll-ups before or after baking. If you freeze them before, wrap each roll-up tightly in plastic wrap. After baking, cool them first, then place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat as described above for best taste.
For the full recipe, check out the Creamy Chicken Pesto Lasagna Roll Ups.
FAQs
Common Questions
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese for a similar texture. Cream cheese also works well. If you prefer a dairy-free option, try tofu blended with a bit of lemon juice.
Can I make the roll-ups in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the roll-ups a day ahead. Just cover them tightly and store them in the fridge. This saves time on busy days.
How long do the leftovers last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about three to four days in the fridge.
Cooking-Specific Questions
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
Yes, you can use no-boil noodles. Just layer them with the sauce and filling. They will soften while baking.
How do I know when the roll-ups are fully cooked?
Check if the cheese on top is bubbly and golden. You can also insert a knife into the center to see if it’s hot.
Ingredient-Specific Questions
What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?
Shredded rotisserie chicken works great. You can also use grilled or baked chicken breast for a fresh taste.
Is homemade pesto better than store-bought for this dish?
Homemade pesto has a brighter flavor. However, good-quality store-bought pesto saves time and can be very tasty. You can find it in most grocery stores.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
In this post, we explored a tasty recipe for lasagna roll-ups. We covered ingredients, preparation steps, cooking tips, and serving suggestions. You learned how to mix flavors and customize this dish. Remember, a little creativity can elevate your cooking. Enjoy making these roll-ups for your family and friends. Trust me, they will love it. Plus, with proper storage, you can savor leftovers for days! Now, it’s time to get cooking and make this delicious meal your own.
