If you’ve ever wondered how to transform your leftover chicken into something truly spectacular, this Leftover Chicken Stuffed Lasagna Rolls Recipe is here to inspire. It’s a cozy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that takes humble, cooked chicken and wraps it in tender pasta, creamy ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, all topped with tangy marinara. The combination of familiar flavors with a fun, rolled presentation makes this recipe a perfect weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dinner party showstopper. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep shredded chicken on hand just to make these delicious rolls anytime.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and essential, each playing a vital role in making the dish flavorful and perfectly balanced. From the creamy cheeses to the savory seasonings, every component helps build layers of taste and texture that bring this recipe to life.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The star ingredient that makes this recipe a fantastic way to use up leftovers with good flavor and protein.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds luscious creaminess and mild tang that melts beautifully inside the rolls.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides the gooey, stretchy cheese pull both inside and on top of the rolls.
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste complexity.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder keeping the filling nice and cohesive.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a fragrant, savory depth that wakes up the filling’s flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A classic herb blend that complements the tomato and cheese wonderfully.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper: Adds a subtle hint of spice for complexity.
- 8 cooked lasagna noodles: The perfect canvas to hold all the delicious filling inside a tender pasta roll.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: A vibrant, tangy tomato sauce that keeps the rolls moist and flavorful.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness as a garnish.
How to Make Leftover Chicken Stuffed Lasagna Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the filling is creamy, cheesy, and evenly blended. This step brings all the flavors together and creates that irresistible filling texture you’ll absolutely love.
Step 2: Cook and cool the lasagna noodles
Cook the lasagna noodles following the package instructions until al dente. Then, carefully lay them flat on a clean surface or baking sheet to cool and dry. This is important so the noodles don’t stick together and are easy to roll in the next step.
Step 3: Assemble the rolls
Spread about 1/4 cup of the chicken and cheese filling evenly along one side of each cooked lasagna noodle. Roll each noodle up gently, making sure the seam stays closed, and arrange the rolls seam-side down in a greased 9×13 baking dish. This step creates neat, handheld portions packed with delicious filling.
Step 4: Add sauce and cheese topping
Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the top of the rolled noodles, ensuring each one is lightly covered. Then sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella over everything. The sauce keeps the rolls moist, and the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly topping that makes the dish irresistible even before the first bite.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes until the cheese is beautifully golden and bubbly. This baking process allows the flavors to meld perfectly and the cheese to get that crave-worthy melted texture.
Step 6: Rest and garnish
Let the rolls rest for about 5 minutes after coming out of the oven to allow everything to set slightly. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor before serving. This finishing touch adds brightness and makes the dish look extra special on your table.
How to Serve Leftover Chicken Stuffed Lasagna Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a simple yet beautiful garnish that adds a burst of green and a light, herbal note to your lasagna rolls. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for some extra richness and shine.
Side Dishes
These lasagna rolls pair wonderfully with crisp green salads like arugula or mixed baby greens tossed with a lemon vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or a medley of bell peppers also complement the cheesy, savory rolls perfectly without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the rolls on individual plates with a spoonful of marinara sauce artistically swirled underneath. You can also arrange them in a circular pattern on a large platter with parsley sprinkled generously over the top for a stunning centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chicken stuffed lasagna rolls keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the noodles from drying out. They’re an excellent option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to save these for even longer, freeze the unbaked assembled rolls in a covered dish or freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake them directly from frozen by adding extra baking time to ensure they’re heated through perfectly.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the rolls with foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes if refrigerated or 40 minutes if frozen. This method keeps the cheese melty and the sauce delicious without drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and adds great flavor without extra effort. Just shred it well before mixing with the cheeses and seasonings.
Do I need to pre-cook the lasagna noodles?
Yes, pre-cooking the noodles is important so they’re pliable enough to roll without breaking. Follow package instructions and let them cool flat to prevent sticking.
Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?
You can, but ricotta’s creamy texture is key to the filling’s consistency. If unavailable, try cottage cheese blended smooth or a mix of cream cheese and cottage cheese as a substitute.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! These lasagna rolls are excellent for meal prep since they store well and reheat nicely. You can prepare them in advance and bake when ready to enjoy.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes, finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers would be delicious additions. Just sauté them first to remove extra moisture before mixing into the filling.
Final Thoughts
This Leftover Chicken Stuffed Lasagna Rolls Recipe is a fantastic way to elevate leftover chicken into a warm, comforting meal bursting with flavor and cheesy goodness. It’s approachable yet special enough to serve family, friends, or just to treat yourself on busy days. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfying feeling of turning simple ingredients into something truly delicious and memorable.
Print
Leftover Chicken Stuffed Lasagna Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Leftover Chicken Dinner is a delicious and comforting baked dish that transforms shredded cooked chicken and lasagna noodles into cheesy, flavorful roll-ups. Layered with ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and a savory blend of garlic and Italian seasoning, these chicken and cheese rolls are baked in marinara sauce until bubbly and golden, making a perfect family-friendly meal using leftover chicken.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Other Ingredients
- 8 cooked lasagna noodles
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until fully incorporated.
- Cook and prepare noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean surface or baking sheet to cool and dry, preventing them from sticking together.
- Assemble rolls: Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken and cheese filling onto each cooked noodle. Roll each noodle up gently, starting from one end, and place the rolls seam-side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Add sauce and cheese: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the rolled noodles. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
- Bake the dish: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Allow the baked chicken rolls to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a bright, fresh flavor and appealing presentation.
Notes
- Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente so they hold their shape when rolled.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling.
- If preferred, substitute marinara sauce with your favorite pasta sauce or homemade tomato sauce.
- Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings.
