Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s equal parts comfort food and showstopper—the Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls. Imagine tender, juicy chicken breasts wrapped around a spicy, creamy cheese filling then hugged by crispy bacon. These rolls manage to be incredibly simple to whip up, yet they absolutely deliver on flavor and wow-factor. Whether you’re impressing dinner guests or spicing up a weeknight meal, Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls are about to claim a special spot in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls is that every ingredient matters and nothing is wasted. With just a handful of familiar items, you’ll create something seriously delicious that’s bursting with texture and color. Each element brings its own magic, from creamy to smoky, cheesy to crispy.
- Chicken breasts: Pounded thin for easy rolling and juicy results—grab boneless, skinless pieces for best effect.
- Cream cheese: Softened for effortless mixing and that silky, luscious filling.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds bold, tangy flavor and extra meltiness to your rolls.
- Chopped pickled jalapeños: These pickled gems deliver just the right amount of heat and zing—choose mild or spicy based on your mood!
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smokiness that whispers BBQ, balancing out the richness beautifully.
- Garlic powder: For that mellow, savory backbone that makes everything taste better.
- Onion powder: Adds sweet, aromatic depth to the filling, working alongside the garlic.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all those delicious flavors—don’t skip this one.
- Black pepper: Brings gentle warmth and a hint of bite to round out the seasoning.
- Bacon slices: The crispy, smoky wrapper that seals everything together—double up for maximum coverage.
- Olive oil: A splash for searing, which helps the bacon render and crisp up perfectly before baking.
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional): Chopped for sprinkling on top, adding a pop of freshness and color to finish things off.
How to Make Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Creamy Jalapeño Cheese Filling
In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped pickled jalapeños, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Give it a good stir until the mixture is creamy and totally blended. You want it smooth and spreadable so every bite inside the chicken rolls is loaded with flavor.
Step 2: Fill and Roll the Chicken
Lay your pounded-thin chicken breasts flat on a clean surface. Divide the cheese mixture evenly among the pieces and spread it right up to the edges. Roll each chicken breast tightly into a log—don’t worry if a little filling tries to sneak out! This is the start of your Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls adventure.
Step 3: Wrap with Bacon
Take two slices of bacon per chicken roll and wrap them around each one, spiraling so the bacon covers as much of the chicken as possible. Secure with toothpicks if necessary. This layer makes your rolls extra savory and helps them hold their shape while cooking.
Step 4: Sear for Flavor
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high. Place the bacon-wrapped chicken rolls seam-side down and sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until the bacon is golden and crisp. This little step locks in flavor and gives you that irresistible smoky exterior.
Step 5: Bake to Juicy Perfection
With the rolls nicely seared, transfer the skillet to your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and a thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the center. Allow the Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls to rest for about 5 minutes before you slice into them—this helps keep those juices inside instead of all over your cutting board.
How to Serve Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls
Garnishes
After baking, a shower of freshly chopped cilantro or parsley adds brightness and color to your Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls. If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of extra shredded cheddar or finely diced red onion gives even more pop and flavor.
Side Dishes
These chicken rolls are rich and satisfying, so pairing them with lighter sides strikes the perfect balance. Go for fluffy rice, crisp roasted veggies, or a refreshing green salad. For extra flair, serve with a cool ranch or creamy avocado dipping sauce—the creaminess counteracts any extra heat from those jalapeños!
Creative Ways to Present
Slicing the rolls into pinwheels makes them an instant hit for parties or game night snacks. Layer them on a platter with colorful veggies, or pile them into slider buns for a next-level sandwich. However you decide to serve Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls, be ready for compliments!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftover Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to three days, and they’re terrific for grabbing at lunch or turning into a quick dinner the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze these chicken rolls for up to two months if you want to prep ahead. Cool completely, then seal tightly in freezer bags or containers. For best results, slice them first so you can easily thaw and reheat individual portions.
Reheating
To reheat, simply place the rolls (thawed if frozen) on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil. Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until hot throughout. The bacon stays crispy, and the cheesy filling comes right back to life!
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese in the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella for a different spin. The key is to use a good melting cheese for that irresistible gooey texture in your Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls.
How can I make these rolls less spicy?
To tone down the heat, simply reduce or omit the pickled jalapeños. You can also use mild varieties, or even substitute with chopped roasted red peppers for flavorful color without the kick.
What’s the best way to pound chicken breasts thinly?
Lay the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment, then use a rolling pin or meat mallet to gently pound them to about 1/4 inch thickness. This not only makes them easier to roll but helps them cook extra evenly.
Can I make Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls ahead for a party?
Definitely! Assemble the rolls, wrap them in bacon, and pop them in the fridge up to a day ahead. Sear and bake right before serving so you get crispy bacon and piping hot, melty centers.
Do I need a toothpick to secure the bacon?
Toothpicks can help keep everything neat, especially if your rolls are on the larger side or the bacon isn’t sticking (some brands curl up when cooked). If your bacon wraps snugly and stays put during searing, feel free to skip them!
Final Thoughts
There’s just something extra special about a meal that’s simple enough for a weeknight but delicious enough to share with your favorite people. If you’re craving that combination of smoky, cheesy, spicy, and savory, give these Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls a try. Trust me, once you bite in, they’ll become a crave-worthy classic in your kitchen!
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Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls are a delightful combination of tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy, spicy mixture, wrapped in crispy bacon. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Rolls:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded thin)
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapeños
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, mix cream cheese, shredded cheddar, jalapeños, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Fill and Roll the Chicken: Lay the pounded chicken breasts flat, spread the cheese mixture evenly over each piece, roll tightly, and wrap with bacon slices.
- Sear and Bake: Sear the chicken rolls in olive oil, then bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with cilantro or parsley.
Notes
- For extra heat, add fresh jalapeño slices or crushed red pepper.
- Serve with rice, roasted veggies, or ranch dipping sauce.
- To reduce spiciness, adjust jalapeño amount.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken roll
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
