If you have some tasty cooked chicken waiting in the fridge, turning it into a comforting and flavorful dinner is a breeze with this Leftover Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe. It’s a brilliant way to transform simple ingredients into a heartwarming, cheesy dish that feels like a special treat but comes together surprisingly quickly. Imagine tender lasagna noodles filled with a creamy chicken and cheese mixture, baked in vibrant marinara sauce, and topped with bubbly, golden mozzarella—pure comfort food magic that your whole family will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a key role in building the rich layers of flavor and inviting textures that make this dish unforgettable.
- Cooked chicken (2 cups, shredded): The hearty, protein-packed base that turns leftovers into a main event.
- Ricotta cheese (1 cup): Adds a creamy, luscious texture that binds the filling together wonderfully.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 1/2 cups, shredded): Brings gooey, melty goodness both inside the rolls and on top for that perfect cheesy crust.
- Grated Parmesan (1/3 cup): Delivers a sharp, savory kick that elevates the flavors.
- Large egg (1): Helps hold the filling firm and keeps the roll-ups intact during baking.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and a touch of zest.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that brings that classic, comforting Italian flair.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) and pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and balancing the dish.
- Cooked lasagna noodles (8): Soft, pliable vessels ready to hold all that delicious filling.
- Marinara sauce (2 cups): The vibrant tomato base that adds moisture, tang, and warmth.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): A bright garnish that freshens and visually lifts the final dish.
How to Make Leftover Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the filling
Start by combining your shredded cooked chicken with ricotta cheese, one cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, the egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper all in one large bowl. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring the cheeses and seasonings coat every bit of chicken for a luscious, flavorful filling.
Step 2: Cook and prep the lasagna noodles
Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package’s instructions until they are tender but not mushy. Drain them carefully, then lay each noodle flat on a clean surface or towel to cool and dry so they’re easy to roll without sticking.
Step 3: Assemble the roll-ups
Spoon approximately a quarter cup of the chicken and cheese filling onto one end of a noodle. Spread it evenly, then roll the noodle up tightly but gently to enclose the filling. Place each roll seam-side down into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arranging them snugly side-by-side for even baking.
Step 4: Add marinara and top with mozzarella
Pour two full cups of your favorite marinara sauce evenly over the roll-ups, making sure every roll is coated in that rich tomato flavor. Then sprinkle the remaining half cup of shredded mozzarella over the top, setting the stage for a golden, bubbling cheese finish.
Step 5: Bake to perfection
Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20 minutes covered to heat everything through and meld the flavors. Then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes to get that irresistible bubbly, golden-brown cheese crust.
Step 6: Rest and garnish
Once baked, allow the roll-ups to rest for about five minutes—it helps the filling to settle and makes serving easier. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely pop of color and a hint of fresh herbal brightness.
How to Serve Leftover Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a splash of vibrant green but also gives a fresh contrast to the rich, cheesy flavors. For an extra touch, a light grating of Parmesan just before serving will delight cheese lovers.
Side Dishes
Balance the richness of these roll-ups with crisp, fresh salads like a simple arugula with lemon vinaigrette or roasted veggies like asparagus or zucchini. Garlic bread or a crunchy Italian-style baguette are also perfect companions for soaking up any leftover marinara sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual roll-ups on plates with a drizzle of extra marinara sauce artfully swirled around, garnished with microgreens or basil leaves for an elegant touch. You can also arrange them as a hearty appetizer platter by cutting roll-ups into bite-sized pieces for sharing at casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any uneaten roll-ups in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the leftovers surprisingly tasty the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze unbaked assembled roll-ups by wrapping the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then follow the baking steps to enjoy fresh-tasting leftovers anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving works well too for a quick fix but might make the noodles slightly softer.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella and ricotta are classic for creaminess and meltability, you can add or swap with provolone, fontina, or even a little cheddar for a different twist. Just keep the balance so the filling stays creamy.
Is it okay to use store-bought marinara sauce?
Yes, store-bought marinara works beautifully and saves time. Choose a high-quality brand or one with simple, fresh ingredients. You can always jazz it up with extra herbs or a pinch of sugar to suit your taste.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, substitute the cooked chicken with cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted vegetables. The combination of cheeses and marinara will still make it deliciously satisfying.
How do I know when the roll-ups are done baking?
You’ll see the cheese melted and bubbly with golden spots, and the marinara sauce will be simmering gently. The baking time provided ensures that the filling inside is warmed through and the noodles are tender.
Can I prepare the roll-ups ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely! You can assemble the roll-ups, cover, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a great make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or entertaining friends.
Final Thoughts
When you want to turn your leftover chicken into something special, this Leftover Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe is pure magic on a plate. It’s comforting, cheesy, and packed with flavor, perfect for those evenings when you crave homemade goodness without hours in the kitchen. I hope you give it a try soon and find it becoming one of your favorite go-to dinners just like it is for me!
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Leftover Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups with Marinara and Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Leftover Chicken Dinner is a comforting baked recipe featuring rolled lasagna noodles stuffed with a flavorful mixture of shredded chicken, ricotta, and cheeses. Topped with marinara sauce and mozzarella, it’s a perfect way to transform cooked chicken into a hearty, cheesy pasta bake that serves the whole family.
Ingredients
Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Others
- 8 cooked lasagna noodles
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Cook and cool noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay the noodles flat on a clean surface to cool and dry, preventing them from sticking together.
- Assemble rolls: Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of the chicken and cheese filling onto each cooled lasagna noodle. Roll the noodles gently and place them seam-side down in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish in a single layer.
- Add sauce and cheese: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the rolled noodles in the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top to add a golden cheesy crust after baking.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes after baking to set. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Ensure the lasagna noodles are cooled and dry before assembling to prevent sogginess.
- You can substitute the cooked chicken with leftover turkey or a plant-based alternative for variation.
- To make ahead, assemble the rolls and refrigerate them, then bake when ready to serve.
- If preferred, use store-bought marinara sauce or homemade for better flavor control.
- To reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium cheeses and marinara sauce.
