Mozzarella & Red Pepper Chicken Roll-Ups With Pesto Recipe

Irresistible Mozzarella & Red Pepper Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe

Mozzarella and red pepper chicken roll-ups reinvent ordinary dinners into extraordinary culinary experiences with their elegant simplicity.

These delightful parcels combine multiple textures and flavors that dance harmoniously across your palate.

Tender chicken becomes a delicate canvas for creamy cheese and sweet roasted peppers nestled within.

Soft mozzarella melts luxuriously, creating a rich interior that complements the herb-infused pesto bright notes.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients merge seamlessly, promising a sophisticated yet approachable meal that feels both comforting and refined.

Each bite delivers a complex flavor profile that surprises and delights you.

Your taste buds will thank you for this memorable dining adventure.

Why Mozzarella & Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Roll-ups with Pesto Sauce Hit the Spot

  • Unlock Flavor Explosion: Mozzarella and roasted red peppers create a burst of tangy, creamy goodness that transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
  • Super Quick Weeknight Winner: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy families craving a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Protein-Packed Healthy Indulgence: With 35 grams of protein and low carbohydrates, these chicken roll-ups deliver a nutritious punch while feeling like a gourmet restaurant experience.
  • Minimal Effort, Maximum Satisfaction: Simple rolling technique and straightforward ingredients mean even novice cooks can create an impressive dish that looks and tastes professionally prepared.

Ingredients That Bring Mozzarella & Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Roll-ups with Pesto Sauce to Life

Chicken and Proteins:
  • Chicken Cutlets: Lean protein base for the roll-ups, best when thin and even for easy rolling.
  • Italian Seasoning: Dried herb blend that adds traditional Mediterranean flavor to the chicken.
Cheese and Dairy:
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Soft, mild cheese that melts beautifully and provides creamy texture to the roll-ups.
Sauce and Vegetables:
  • Pesto Sauce: Herb-based green sauce with basil, garlic, and olive oil that adds vibrant flavor.
  • Roasted Red Peppers: Sweet, smoky vegetable that brings color and rich taste to the chicken rolls.
Seasonings:
  • Salt: Essential flavor enhancer for the entire dish.
  • Black Pepper: Adds subtle heat and depth to the overall seasoning.
  • Toothpicks: Temporary support to keep chicken rolls tightly secured during cooking.
  • Parchment Paper: Non-stick surface for easy baking and cleanup.

How to Roll and Bake Mozzarella & Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Roll-ups with Pesto Sauce

Step 1: Prepare Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Season Chicken

Sprinkle chicken cutlets generously with salt and pepper. Lay them flat on the prepared baking sheet, ready for transformation.

Step 3: Layer Flavor Boosters

Spread a generous layer of pesto across each chicken cutlet:
  • Pesto sauce
  • Roasted red pepper halves
  • Mozzarella cheese (⅓ cup)

Ensure the toppings cover the entire surface for maximum taste explosion.

Step 4: Create Delicious Rolls

Tightly roll each chicken cutlet from the narrow end. Secure each roll with toothpicks to keep the delicious fillings locked inside. Dust with Italian seasoning for an extra flavor punch.

Step 5: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 18-25 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through and looks gloriously golden.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Carefully remove toothpicks. Drizzle additional pesto over the top of each roll-up.

Tips for Juicy and Flavorful Mozzarella & Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Roll-ups

  • Master Your Cutlet Thickness: Pound chicken to an even 1/4-inch thickness for uniform cooking and easier rolling.
  • Prevent Cheese Leakage: Ensure cheese is tucked tightly inside the roll to minimize melting out during baking.
  • Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  • Enhance Flavor Depth: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to help juices redistribute and maintain moisture.
  • Toothpick Removal Trick: Remove toothpicks carefully at an angle to keep roll-ups intact while serving.

Storage Tips for Mozzarella & Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Roll-ups That Keep Them Tasty

  • Storage
  • Refrigerate leftover chicken roll-ups in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep them sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. These delicious roll-ups will stay good for 3-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator.
  • Reheating Methods
  • Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place roll-ups on a baking sheet, cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying, and warm for 10-12 minutes until heated through. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
  • Microwave Method: Reheat individual roll-ups on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, using 30-second intervals. Drizzle extra pesto on top to restore moisture and revive the original flavors.

Side Dishes That Complement Mozzarella & Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Roll-ups

  • Discover Crisp White Wine Companions: Pair these chicken roll-ups with a chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio, whose bright acidity beautifully cuts through the rich, creamy mozzarella and herbal pesto notes.
  • Elevate with Mediterranean Side Salad: Create a refreshing greek salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and kalamata olives dressed in olive oil, complementing the roll-ups' robust Mediterranean flavors and adding a light, zesty contrast.
  • Unlock Rustic Bread Perfection: Serve alongside crusty ciabatta or focaccia bread to soak up the delicious pesto sauce, providing a satisfying textural element and ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
  • Balance with Crisp Green Vegetables: Add roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans with garlic to provide a crunchy, nutritious side that balances the chicken roll-ups' creamy and savory profile.

Fresh Ways to Reimagine Mozzarella & Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Roll-ups

  • Mediterranean Flair: Replace roasted red peppers with sun-dried tomatoes and swap mozzarella for crumbled feta cheese, creating a Greek-inspired version with tangy Mediterranean flavors.
  • Spinach Lover's Edition: Incorporate fresh spinach leaves alongside the roasted red peppers, adding extra nutrients and a vibrant green color to the chicken roll-ups.
  • Spicy Southwest Style: Mix diced jalapeños into the pesto, use pepper jack cheese instead of mozzarella, and sprinkle with chili powder for a zesty southwestern kick that brings bold heat to the dish.
  • Prosciutto Premium: Layer thin slices of prosciutto inside the roll-ups before adding cheese, introducing a luxurious Italian-inspired element that elevates the overall taste profile.
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Mozzarella & Red Pepper Chicken Roll-Ups With Pesto Recipe

Mozzarella & Red Pepper Chicken Roll-Ups With Pesto Recipe


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4.8 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mozzarella & Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Roll-ups deliver Italian-inspired comfort with elegant simplicity. Juicy chicken breasts wrapped around creamy mozzarella and sweet peppers, then drizzled with herbal pesto, create a delightful meal you’ll savor from first bite to last.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 4 chicken cutlets

Cheese:

  • 1⅓ cups (approximately 335 milliliters) shredded mozzarella cheese

Flavor Enhancers and Additional Ingredients:

  • 2 jarred fire-roasted red peppers
  • ½ cup (120 milliliters) pesto sauce
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Sea salt
  • Fresh black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper for easy cleanup and non-stick cooking.
  2. Pat the chicken cutlets dry with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adhesion and even cooking.
  3. Season both sides of the chicken cutlets generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance their natural flavor profile.
  4. Arrange the seasoned chicken cutlets flat on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overlapping.
  5. Evenly spread of vibrant basil pesto across each chicken cutlet, covering from edge to edge to maximize flavor distribution.
  6. Position half a roasted red pepper at the narrow end of each cutlet, creating a colorful and flavorful base for the roll-ups.
  7. Sprinkle approximately of shredded mozzarella cheese over the roasted red pepper, ensuring even coverage.
  8. Carefully roll each chicken cutlet from the narrow end, creating tight, compact rolls that seal in the filling.
  9. Secure each roll-up with 2-3 toothpicks to prevent unraveling during baking.
  10. Dust the exterior of each roll-up with Italian seasoning blend to add an extra layer of aromatic herbs.
  11. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  12. Remove from the oven and let the roll-ups rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  13. Carefully extract the toothpicks from each roll-up and discard them.
  14. Finish by drizzling the remaining pesto sauce over the top of each chicken roll-up before serving hot.

Notes

  • Elevate your weeknight dinner with these stunning chicken roll-ups that combine bold Mediterranean flavors.
  • Roasting bell peppers beforehand intensifies their sweet, smoky taste and adds complexity to the dish.
  • Toothpicks are essential for keeping these delicate rolls tightly sealed during baking, ensuring perfect presentation.
  • Mozzarella melts beautifully inside the roll, creating a creamy interior that complements the herb-infused pesto.
  • Serve immediately after removing toothpicks to maintain the roll-ups’ elegant shape and vibrant appearance.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking, Roasting, Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 370 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 105mg
Julian Park

Julian Park

Co-Founder, Cuisine Researcher & Food Culture Writer

Expertise

  • Global Food Cultures & Culinary History
  • Regional Flavor Profiles & Cooking Techniques
  • Food Anthropology & Cultural Identity
  • Culinary Research & Narrative Writing
  • Street Food Traditions & Heritage Dishes

Education

The Institute of Culinary Education (ICE), Los Angeles, CA

  • Degree: Certificate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Professional culinary techniques, global cuisine fundamentals, and real-world training in restaurant-style cooking and food presentation.

Julian Park is a natural storyteller at The Dream Café who blends hands-on culinary experience with a passion for exploring global food traditions. A graduate of The Institute of Culinary Education in Los Angeles, Julian combines professional technique with a love for cultural discovery, diving into how dishes reflect heritage, migration, and identity. 

His work spans everything from in-depth cuisine guides to reflections on everyday meals around the world. With a curious palate and a journal always close by, Julian helps readers connect with food in a way that feels so insightful and personal.

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