Creamy Chicken Pesto Lasagna Roll-Ups

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Pesto Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delicious twist on traditional lasagna, combining tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and vibrant pesto all rolled up in lasagna noodles. The creamy pesto sauce adds richness, while the chicken provides a hearty, protein-packed element. These roll-ups are perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. They’re easy to make, visually stunning, and absolutely bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pesto Sauce:

• 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Lasagna:

• 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Directions

For the Chicken Filling:

1. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are fully combined.

For the Pesto Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well and bring to a simmer, cooking for 3-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Lasagna Roll-Ups:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of the pesto sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Lay out each cooked lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous spoonful of the chicken filling along the length of each noodle.
4. Carefully roll up each noodle with the filling inside, and place the rolls seam-side down in the baking dish.
5. Pour the remaining pesto sauce over the roll-ups, making sure they’re all covered. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese on top.

Baking:

1. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

To Serve:

1. Let the roll-ups rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with extra fresh basil or Parmesan cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4-6.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Mix in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini into the chicken filling for added flavor and nutrition.
• Use different protein: Swap the chicken for turkey, ground beef, or even a vegetarian protein like tofu or lentils for a different twist.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the pesto sauce for a little heat.
• Use a different cheese: You can substitute the ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option, or use a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate them (covered with foil) for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

Can I use homemade pesto?
Absolutely! Homemade pesto will add even more fresh, vibrant flavor to the dish.

Can I freeze these roll-ups?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled lasagna roll-ups before baking. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake according to the recipe.

Can I use a different pasta shape?
While lasagna noodles are traditional, you could use other long pasta shapes like wide fettuccine or pappardelle for a different twist.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Pesto Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delicious, comforting dish that takes lasagna to the next level. With creamy ricotta, savory chicken, and a vibrant pesto sauce, these roll-ups are perfect for any occasion. Easy to make and sure to impress, they’re the ultimate combination of creamy, cheesy, and flavorful in every bite!

Print