These Chicken and Cheese Bread Rolls are a quick and delicious way to use up leftover chicken breast or rotisserie chicken. With a crispy, buttery exterior and a cheesy, savory filling, these roll-ups make for a fun and easy lunch. They can be customized with different cheeses and proteins and are perfect for both kids and adults!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- ½ small onion, thinly sliced
- 4 slices of bread (whole wheat or any type of sandwich bread)
- ½ cup shredded leftover chicken breast
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2-3 tbsp butter (for pan-frying)
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste (optional)
Directions
- Thinly slice the onion and melt 1-2 tbsp butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the onion slices, paprika, black pepper, and salt to the pan, stirring to coat. Cook until softened, then set aside.
- Remove the crusts from the bread slices and roll them flat using a rolling pin.
- Place a small amount of shredded chicken, cheese, and onions at one end of each bread slice and roll them up into a log. Add a little extra cheese at the seam to help seal them when pan-frying.
- Melt the remaining butter in the same pan used for the onions and pan-fry the roll-ups until all sides are golden brown.
- Slice and serve warm, with or without a dip!
Nutrients (Per Roll-Up)
- Calories: 152.06 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 15.44g
- Protein: 11.45g
- Fat: 4.96g
- Saturated Fat: 2.36g
- Cholesterol: 27.46mg
- Sodium: 301.04mg
- Potassium: 138.61mg
- Fiber: 1.36g
- Sugar: 2.59g
- Calcium: 123.01mg
- Iron: 1.17mg
Why You’ll Love These Chicken and Cheese Bread Rolls
These delicious bread rolls are packed with flavor and have several great qualities:
- Quick and Easy – They take only a few minutes to assemble and cook, making them perfect for busy days.
- Uses Leftovers – A great way to use up leftover chicken, reducing food waste while making something delicious.
- Crispy and Cheesy – The crispy, golden-brown exterior contrasts beautifully with the gooey, melty cheese inside.
- Kid-Friendly – These roll-ups are a fun, mess-free way to serve chicken and cheese, making them ideal for little hands.
- Versatile – You can customize them with different cheeses, proteins, and seasonings to suit your taste.
A Perfect Meal for Any Occasion
These Chicken and Cheese Bread Rolls are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in different ways:
- Lunch or Dinner – Pair them with a salad or soup for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Snack or Appetizer – Serve them as a party snack, game-day treat, or after-school bite.
- Lunchbox Addition – Pack them in lunchboxes for a tasty, protein-rich meal on the go.
- Brunch Option – Add them to a brunch spread alongside eggs and fresh fruit for a balanced meal.
Health Benefits of Chicken and Cheese Bread Rolls
Although these rolls are indulgent and crispy, they also provide several nutritional benefits:
- High in Protein – With shredded chicken and cheese, these rolls offer a great protein boost, keeping you full and energized.
- Good Source of Calcium – The cheese provides essential calcium for strong bones and teeth.
- Balanced Carbohydrates and Fats – The combination of bread, butter, and protein makes these rolls a balanced meal or snack.
- Customizable for Healthier Options – You can make them even healthier by using whole wheat bread, reducing butter, or adding veggies.
Best Cheeses to Use for These Rolls
Choosing the right cheese can enhance the flavor and texture of these rolls. Here are some great options:
- Mozzarella – Melts beautifully and gives that classic stretchy, gooey cheese pull.
- Cheddar – Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that pairs well with chicken.
- Provolone – Smooth and mild with a great melt factor.
- Parmesan (for Garnish) – Adds an extra layer of savory, salty goodness when sprinkled on top after cooking.
How to Customize Your Chicken and Cheese Bread Rolls
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are some fun variations to try:
- Spicy Version – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- BBQ Chicken Rolls – Mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce before rolling for a smoky, sweet flavor.
- Creamy Version – Add a small dollop of cream cheese or sour cream for an extra creamy filling.
- Vegetable-Packed – Include diced bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
- Breakfast Roll-Ups – Add scrambled eggs along with the chicken and cheese for a breakfast twist.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken and Cheese Bread Rolls
These rolls are best enjoyed fresh, but they can also be stored and reheated later.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to keep the exterior crispy.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Wrap each roll in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw slightly and pan-fry or bake until warm.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat in a pan with a little butter, in the oven at 350°F, or in an air fryer for a few minutes.
Dipping Sauces to Serve with Chicken and Cheese Bread Rolls
These crispy rolls taste even better when paired with the right dipping sauce. Here are some great options:
- Marinara Sauce – A classic tomato-based dip for a pizza-like flavor.
- Garlic Aioli – A creamy, garlicky sauce that enhances the richness of the cheese.
- Honey Mustard – Sweet and tangy, this dip complements the savory chicken and cheese.
- Buffalo Sauce – Spicy and bold, perfect for those who love heat.
- Ranch Dressing – A cool, herby dip that balances the warm, cheesy filling.
Making Chicken and Cheese Bread Rolls Healthier
While this recipe is already a great balance of protein, fats, and carbs, here are a few ways to make it even healthier:
- Use Whole Wheat Bread – A fiber-rich option that adds more nutrients and keeps you fuller longer.
- Reduce Butter – Use a non-stick pan or lightly spray with oil instead of using butter for pan-frying.
- Add More Vegetables – Incorporate finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or grated carrots into the filling.
- Use Low-Fat Cheese – Choose a reduced-fat cheese to lower the calorie content without compromising flavor.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken and Cheese Bread Rolls
For perfect rolls every time, follow these simple tips:
- Flatten the Bread Well – Rolling the bread flat makes it easier to roll up and helps it crisp up better.
- Seal the Edges with Cheese – A little extra cheese at the seam helps hold the rolls together while cooking.
- Pan-Fry on Medium Heat – Cooking on medium ensures the cheese melts while achieving a golden crust without burning.
- Use Stale Bread – Slightly stale bread holds its shape better and crisps up nicely when pan-fried.
- Don’t Overfill – Too much filling can make the rolls difficult to seal and fry properly.
Why These Rolls Are a Must-Try Recipe
Chicken and Cheese Bread Rolls are a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something incredibly delicious. The combination of crispy bread, savory chicken, and gooey cheese makes these roll-ups irresistible.
- They’re quick and easy – Ready in just minutes, these rolls make a great meal for busy days.
- They’re budget-friendly – Use pantry staples and leftovers to make a delicious dish without extra grocery shopping.
- They’re great for all ages – Whether you’re making them for kids, adults, or guests, they’re always a hit.
- They’re endlessly customizable – With different cheeses, proteins, and seasonings, you can create new variations every time.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly tasty snack or meal, these Chicken and Cheese Bread Rolls are the perfect choice. They’re crispy, cheesy, packed with flavor, and kid-friendly, making them an instant crowd-pleaser.
Best of all, they are versatile and customizable, allowing you to experiment with different fillings and flavors. Whether you’re making them for a quick lunch, a snack, or a fun party appetizer, these bread rolls are guaranteed to be a hit.