Imagine a dish that combines the creamy richness of cheese, the succulence of tender chicken, and the fresh crunch of zucchini - all rolled into one mouthwatering masterpiece! These Chicken Zucchini Rolls are not just a meal; they're a culinary adventure that will transform your dinner routine from boring to extraordinary. Perfect for health-conscious foodies, low-carb enthusiasts, and anyone craving a delicious Italian-inspired dish that's as nutritious as it is delectable!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced thinly
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a rectangular baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or olive oil.
- Using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife, carefully slice zucchinis lengthwise into thin, uniform strips about 1/8 inch thick. Ensure the strips are long and wide enough to roll.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until ingredients are well incorporated.
- Lay out zucchini strips on a clean cutting board or work surface. Spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of the chicken-ricotta mixture onto one end of each zucchini strip.
- Carefully roll each zucchini strip starting from the end with the filling, creating tight, compact rolls. Place the rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour marinara sauce evenly over the zucchini rolls, ensuring they are well-covered. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the rolls.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the zucchini is tender.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Tips
- Zucchini Slicing Secrets: Use a mandoline slicer for consistently thin, even strips that roll easily. If you don't have one, a sharp knife and steady hand work just as well.
- Moisture Management: After slicing zucchini, pat the strips dry with paper towels to prevent excess water from making your rolls soggy.
- Filling Technique: Don't overfill your rolls. Two tablespoons of filling per strip ensures neat, compact rolls that hold together perfectly.
- Cheese Pro Tip: For extra flavor, mix in some grated Parmesan with the mozzarella for a more complex cheese profile.
- Make-Ahead Magic: You can prepare these rolls in advance and refrigerate before baking. Just add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
- Garnish Game: Fresh basil or parsley not only looks beautiful but adds a burst of fresh flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a light side salad or cauliflower rice for a complete, low-carb meal that's sure to impress!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
