Creamy Broccoli Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups
If you’re craving a comforting, creamy, and wholesome dinner that’s a little different from your classic lasagna, these Creamy Broccoli Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups are here to impress. Imagine tender lasagna noodles rolled up with shredded chicken, fresh steamed broccoli, and a luscious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, all baked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with protein and veggies, making it a balanced meal that everyone will love.
Why This Creamy Broccoli Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups Stands Out
What makes these roll-ups truly irresistible is the perfect harmony of creamy textures and fresh flavors. Unlike traditional lasagna, these individual roll-ups bake quickly and serve beautifully plated portions. The combination of shredded chicken and steamed broccoli adds a hearty, nutritious element, while the three-cheese blend ensures each bite is indulgently cheesy. The addition of garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning creates a depth of flavor without overpowering the dish. Finally, the use of heavy cream makes the sauce silky and rich, elevating this dish to a cozy, restaurant-quality meal you can make at home.
What to Buy
- 9 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil for convenience)
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets, steamed
- 2 cups ricotta cheese (whole milk ricotta preferred for creaminess)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (part-skim or whole milk)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that rich, luscious sauce)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing and adding flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a blend of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
Equipment & Tools
- Large pot – to boil lasagna noodles
- Steamer basket or microwave-safe bowl – to steam broccoli
- Mixing bowls – to combine cheese and chicken filling
- Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended) – for arranging and baking the roll-ups
- Whisk – for mixing the cream sauce
- Slotted spoon or tongs – to handle noodles
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for prepping broccoli and shredding chicken if needed
The Method for Creamy Broccoli Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups
Step 1: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to cool slightly and avoid sticking.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
While the noodles cook, steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 4–5 minutes. You can use a steamer basket over boiling water or microwave the broccoli with a splash of water covered in a microwave-safe dish. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Chicken and Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. Gently fold in the steamed broccoli florets, trying not to break them up too much.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add a pinch of salt and the remaining garlic and onion powders if you like, then pour in the heavy cream. Whisk gently and warm until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 5: Assemble the Roll-Ups
Lay one lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the chicken, cheese, and broccoli mixture evenly over the noodle. Starting at one edge, carefully roll the noodle into a tight cylinder. Repeat with the remaining noodles and filling.
Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour a thin layer of the cream sauce into the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Arrange the roll-ups seam side down in the dish. Pour the remaining cream sauce evenly over the roll-ups, then sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese for a bubbly, golden finish.
Step 7: Cook and Serve
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the roll-ups are slightly golden. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve these creamy, cheesy roll-ups alongside your favorite salad or a fresh side dish like this Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli Farfalle for a full meal experience.
Ingredient Swaps & Substitutions
- Chicken: Use cooked turkey or rotisserie turkey for a leaner option.
- Broccoli: Substitute with spinach, kale, or asparagus for a different vegetable twist.
- Ricotta Cheese: Cottage cheese (well-drained) or mascarpone can work for a creamier texture.
- Mozzarella: Provolone or a mild cheddar can add a new flavor profile.
- Heavy Cream: For a lighter sauce, swap with half-and-half or whole milk, but reduce the amount slightly to avoid a runny sauce.
- Lasagna Noodles: Use gluten-free noodles if desired, just adjust cooking time accordingly.
Pro Perspective
When making creamy baked dishes like these roll-ups, always be mindful of moisture content. Over-steaming vegetables or using watery cheeses can make your dish too runny. Patting broccoli dry and choosing cheeses with lower moisture levels will help maintain the perfect creamy texture. Also, rolling the noodles tightly but gently ensures they hold their shape during baking without falling apart.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melt and flavor.
- Letting the roll-ups rest post-bake allows the sauce to set, improving slicing and serving.
- Adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley as garnish brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise.
Storing Tips & Timelines
This Creamy Broccoli Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups recipe is excellent for making ahead. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also freeze the roll-ups before baking; wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.
Creamy Broccoli Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups Q&A
Can I use pre-shredded chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-shredded cooked chicken, like from a rotisserie bird or deli, works perfectly and saves you time. Just ensure it’s well-drained if packaged with any juices.
Is it possible to make these roll-ups vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the cheese and broccoli mixture for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the roll-ups a day ahead, cover them tightly, and refrigerate. Bake them the next day just before serving for fresh, hot roll-ups.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Cover the leftovers with foil and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream or broth before reheating can help maintain moisture.
Reader Favorites
- Cheesy Chicken Lasagna Roll Ups – Another cheesy, comforting roll-up recipe for chicken lovers.
- Garlic Butter Chicken Broccoli Farfalle – A quick pasta dish that pairs beautifully with creamy baked meals.
- Chicken Alfredo Baked Shells – For a twist on creamy chicken pasta baked in shell pasta.
Time to Try It
Ready to whip up a batch of these creamy, comforting roll-ups? Gather your ingredients, roll up those noodles, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s both elegant and easy. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Creamy Broccoli Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups recipe will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete feast everyone will ask for again and again.
With its rich layers of flavor and texture, this dish is proof that simple ingredients and a little love can create magic in your kitchen. Don’t forget to bookmark this recipe and share it with friends who love cheesy, creamy dinners as much as you do!
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Creamy Broccoli Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel or parchment paper to cool slightly and avoid sticking.
- While the noodles cook, steam the broccoli florets until just tender, about 4–5 minutes. You can use a steamer basket over boiling water or microwave the broccoli with a splash of water covered in a microwave-safe dish. Drain and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. Gently fold in the steamed broccoli florets, trying not to break them up too much.
- In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add a pinch of salt and the remaining garlic and onion powders if you like, then pour in the heavy cream. Whisk gently and warm until it just begins to simmer. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Lay one lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the chicken, cheese, and broccoli mixture evenly over the noodle. Starting at one edge, carefully roll the noodle into a tight cylinder. Repeat with the remaining noodles and filling.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour a thin layer of the cream sauce into the bottom of your baking dish to prevent sticking. Arrange the roll-ups seam side down in the dish. Pour the remaining cream sauce evenly over the roll-ups, then sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese for a bubbly, golden finish.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the roll-ups are slightly golden. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve these creamy, cheesy roll-ups alongside your favorite salad or a fresh side dish.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melt and flavor.
- Let the roll-ups rest for 5 minutes after baking to help the sauce set and improve slicing.
- Pat broccoli dry before mixing to avoid excess moisture and a runny sauce.
- Substitute chicken with turkey or vegetables like spinach or kale for variations.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge up to 3 days or freeze before baking for up to 2 months.
