Chicken Roll Ups: 5 Savory Secrets You Need to Try

Name: Chicken Roll Ups: 5 Savory Secrets You Need to Try
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup spinach, chopped; 1 cup shredded cheese; 4 large flour tortillas; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

August 16, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about chicken roll ups! These little bundles of joy are not just delicious; they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them my go-to recipe for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. Seriously, you’re going to love how versatile they are! Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer or a satisfying meal, chicken roll ups fit the bill perfectly. Plus, they’re a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken – no waste in my kitchen!

I remember the first time I made these for a family game night. I laid out all the ingredients, and my kids jumped in to help mix everything together. Watching them roll up the tortillas with their little hands made my heart swell with joy. The best part? They devoured every last bite, asking for seconds! It’s a recipe that not only brings everyone together but also fills our bellies with warmth and flavor. Trust me, once you try these chicken roll ups, they’ll become a staple in your home too!

chicken roll ups - detail 1

Ingredients List

2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup spinach, chopped
1 cup shredded cheese (your choice, but I love cheddar!)
4 large flour tortillas
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients come together so beautifully, and you probably already have most of them in your kitchen. I like to mix and match the cheese sometimes for an extra flavor boost! Just remember to keep the cream cheese nice and soft so it blends smoothly with the other ingredients. You won’t regret it!

How to Prepare Chicken Roll Ups

Getting your chicken roll ups ready is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish in no time. Trust me, the hardest part is waiting for them to chill before you dig in!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First, grab a large mixing bowl. Toss in the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, chopped spinach, and shredded cheese. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, and add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined. I like using a spatula for this, but feel free to use your hands if you want to really get in there!
Next, take your flour tortillas and lay them flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of the chicken mixture over each tortilla, leaving a little space around the edges. This part is crucial—don’t skimp on the filling, but also don’t go too crazy or you’ll have a messy roll!
Now, it’s time to roll! Starting from one end, tightly roll up each tortilla. Make sure to keep it snug but not so tight that it bursts open. You want to create a nice, compact roll that holds together.
Once you’ve rolled them all up, grab a sharp knife and slice each roll into bite-sized pieces. I usually aim for about 1-2 inches thick, but you can adjust based on your preference.
Finally, serve your chicken roll ups immediately for a warm delight or refrigerate them for about 30 minutes if you prefer them chilled. They’re absolutely perfect either way!

And just like that, you’ve made chicken roll ups! If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for a few days. Enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken roll ups are truly a winner in my kitchen for so many reasons! Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this dish just like I have:

Quick Preparation: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in a flash. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Delicious Flavors: The creamy filling combined with tender chicken and fresh spinach creates a flavor explosion that everyone will enjoy. Trust me, they’re hard to resist!
Versatile Dish: Whether you serve them as an appetizer at a party or as a main dish for dinner, chicken roll ups fit right in. They’re always a hit!
Kid-Friendly: Kids love these bite-sized treats! Involve them in the rolling process, and they’ll be excited to eat what they helped create.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Swap in different veggies or cheeses for a personalized touch!
Perfect for Leftovers: Got leftover chicken? This recipe is a fantastic way to use it up without sacrificing flavor or fun!

Honestly, it’s hard to find a more satisfying and convenient dish than chicken roll ups. Once you try them, I bet they’ll become a regular in your meal rotation!

Tips for Success

Making chicken roll ups is super straightforward, but I’ve picked up a few tips over the years that can take your dish from good to absolutely fantastic! Here are my top suggestions to ensure you nail it every time:

Don’t Skip the Soften: Make sure your cream cheese is really softened before mixing. If it’s too cold, it won’t blend smoothly, and you’ll end up with lumps in your filling. Nobody wants that!
Season Generously: Taste your filling before rolling it up. It should be packed with flavor! If it feels a little flat, don’t be afraid to add more garlic powder or a sprinkle of your favorite spices. A pinch of cayenne can add a nice kick!
Wrap It Right: When rolling the tortillas, keep them tight but not too tight that they burst. A loose roll means the filling could spill out, while a super tight one might not hold its shape. Aim for that happy medium!
Chill for Flavor: If you have the time, let your roll ups chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes after slicing. This helps the flavors meld together and makes them even more delicious!
Presentation Matters: For a fun serving idea, arrange your chicken roll ups on a colorful platter and serve with a side of dipping sauce, like ranch or a zesty salsa. It makes for a beautiful and inviting display that your guests will love!
Experiment with Add-Ins: Don’t be afraid to play around with the ingredients. Try adding diced bell peppers, jalapeños, or even sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor twist. The possibilities are endless!

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating chicken roll ups that are not only tasty but also visually appealing. Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about chicken roll ups is how incredibly versatile they are! You can easily customize them based on your mood, the ingredients you have on hand, or even the season. Here are some fun ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Different Proteins: While shredded chicken is classic, you can swap it out for turkey, ham, or even a mix of cooked shrimp if you’re feeling fancy! Each protein brings its own unique flavor.
Veggie Power: Don’t stop at spinach! Feel free to throw in some diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even roasted zucchini. Just remember to chop them small so they roll up easily!
Herb It Up: Fresh herbs can elevate your roll ups to a whole new level. Try adding chopped cilantro, basil, or parsley to the filling. It adds a burst of freshness that’s simply delightful.
Spice It Up: If you love a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. On the flip side, a pinch of cumin or smoked paprika can add a warm, earthy flavor.
Cheese Choices: The cheese you use can really change the game! Instead of regular shredded cheese, try feta for a tangy kick or pepper jack for a spicy twist. You could even mix in some blue cheese for a bold flavor!
Dips and Sauces: Pair your chicken roll ups with various dips! Consider tzatziki for a refreshing contrast or a sweet chili sauce for a fun twist on flavor. You can even drizzle a homemade ranch dressing on top for extra creaminess.

With these variations, you can make each batch of chicken roll ups a unique experience. So don’t be shy—get creative and have fun in the kitchen! I guarantee you’ll discover some flavor combinations that you absolutely love.

Nutritional Information

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for these scrumptious chicken roll ups. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea of what you’re getting per serving (which is about 2 roll ups):

Calories: 300
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 20g

These chicken roll ups pack a nice protein punch thanks to the chicken and cream cheese, making them a filling option for any meal. Plus, with a good balance of fats and carbs, they’re satisfying without being overly heavy. Enjoy every delicious bite knowing you’ve made a meal that’s both tasty and nourishing!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to store those glorious chicken roll ups and keep them fresh! If you happen to have leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is pretty rare in my house), you’ll want to store them properly so they maintain all that delicious flavor and texture.

First, let the roll ups cool completely before you store them. This helps prevent moisture buildup, which can make them soggy. Then, place them in an airtight container—this is key! You don’t want them drying out in the fridge. If you’re stacking them, just place a layer of parchment paper between the rolls to keep them from sticking together.

Stored this way, they can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just pop them in the fridge overnight to thaw.

Now, for reheating, I recommend using the oven or a toaster oven for the best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the roll ups on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to keep them from browning too much. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until they’re warmed through. This method helps keep the tortillas nice and soft while making the filling warm and gooey again.

If you’re in a rush, you can also use the microwave! Just pop them on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat them in 30-second intervals until warm, but be careful not to overdo it or they might get tough.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your chicken roll ups even days after making them! Trust me, they’re just as tasty the second time around.

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I use raw chicken for chicken roll ups?
I wouldn’t recommend using raw chicken, as this recipe is designed for cooked chicken. It’s perfect for using up leftovers! If you do want to use raw chicken, make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding and mixing it with the other ingredients.

Q2. What else can I add to the filling?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can add diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even some chopped jalapeños for a kick. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or herbs too! Just keep in mind to chop or shred your additions small so they mix well.

Q3. How do I make chicken roll ups ahead of time?
Great question! You can prepare your chicken roll ups a few hours in advance. Just mix the filling, spread it on the tortillas, and roll them up. Then, cover them tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to slice and serve. They’re perfect for gatherings!

Q4. Can I freeze chicken roll ups?
Absolutely! After rolling them up, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q5. What dipping sauces go well with chicken roll ups?
I love serving my chicken roll ups with ranch dressing or a zesty salsa—they complement the flavors perfectly! You could also try a creamy avocado dip or even a simple yogurt sauce for a refreshing twist. Enjoy dipping!