Imagine biting into a tender, juicy chicken roll, oozing with melted cheese and topped with a rich marinara sauce. Chicken Parmesan Rolls with Marinara Sauce are not only a delight to the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. This dish combines simplicity with elegance, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, these rolls will impress your family and friends alike.

Why It Deserves a Spot

If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that embodies comfort food at its finest, look no further. Chicken Parmesan Rolls with Marinara Sauce are an irresistible combination of crispy, cheesy goodness wrapped around succulent chicken. The marinara sauce, whether store-bought or homemade, elevates the dish, adding a burst of flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. Plus, they are versatile; serve them with pasta, a side salad, or even on their own for a hearty meal. This recipe is bound to become a staple in your household.

What You’ll Gather

1 ½ cups marinara sauce – store-bought or homemade (see the recipe below)
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – sliced thinly
8 thin slices provolone cheese – or substitute with mozzarella or another quick-melting cheese
8 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese
8 small fresh sage leaves
Olive oil – for drizzling
Breadcrumbs – for coating the chicken rolls
½ teaspoon salt
Ground black pepper – to taste
1 garlic clove – crushed
1 anchovy fillet – optional, for depth of flavor
1 tablespoon olive oil – for cooking the sauce
14 ½ ounces canned tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground pepper

Must-Have Equipment

Sharp knife – for slicing chicken and garlic
Cutting board – a clean surface to work on
Frying pan – for cooking the chicken rolls
Oven-safe dish – to bake the rolls in the marinara sauce
Mixing bowl – for combining the sauce ingredients
Meat mallet or rolling pin – for flattening chicken breasts

Directions: Chicken Parmesan Rolls with Marinara Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the crushed garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. If you’re using anchovy fillet, add it now and stir until it dissolves. Next, pour in the canned tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and ground pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Lay the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cover them with plastic wrap. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to gently pound the chicken to an even thickness, about ¼ inch. This helps ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take one piece of chicken and lay a slice of provolone cheese on top. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of grated Parmesan cheese and place a sage leaf on the cheese. Starting from one end, gently roll the chicken up tightly. Secure with a toothpick if needed. Repeat with all chicken pieces.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Rolls

In a shallow dish, spread out breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper. Roll each chicken roll in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top for added crispiness.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken Rolls

In a frying pan over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken rolls seam side down and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

Step 6: Bake in Marinara Sauce

In an oven-safe dish, spread a layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Place the cooked chicken rolls on top of the sauce and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle any leftover Parmesan cheese on top and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the chicken rolls from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with additional sage leaves or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Quick Replacement Ideas

Cheese – substitute provolone with mozzarella, gouda, or even vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
Breadcrumbs – use crushed crackers or panko for a crunchier texture.
Sage leaves – try basil or thyme if you don’t have sage on hand.
Canned tomatoes – use fresh tomatoes or tomato puree if you prefer.

Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them

Dry Chicken: Ensure you don’t overcook the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Cheese Not Melting: Use a quick-melting cheese like mozzarella or provolone and ensure your oven is preheated properly.
Overcrowded Pan: Cook chicken rolls in batches to ensure even browning.
Sauce Splatter: Cover the dish with foil during the first part of baking if necessary to prevent splatter.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Chicken Parmesan Rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also freeze the rolls before baking; just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

Handy Q&A

Can I prepare Chicken Parmesan Rolls in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Consider serving with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or even some steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with thinly sliced turkey or even eggplant slices for a vegetarian version.

What if I don’t like marinara sauce?

Feel free to experiment with different sauces! A creamy alfredo or a pesto sauce would also be delicious with these rolls.

Serve with These

Garlic Bread – the perfect accompaniment to soak up that marinara sauce.
Simple Green Salad – a refreshing side to balance the richness of the chicken rolls.
Steamed Vegetables – add color and nutrition to your plate.
Fettuccine Alfredo – for a delightful pairing with a creamy touch.

Final Bite

Chicken Parmesan Rolls with Marinara Sauce are the epitome of comfort food. They combine tender chicken, rich cheese, and a robust tomato sauce into a single, satisfying dish. Whether you choose to make your own sauce or use a store-bought option, the results will be delicious. These rolls are perfect for family dinners, entertaining guests, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Enjoy each bite and watch as this dish becomes a favorite at your table!