Chicken Pesto Pizza Rolls
Are you ready to take your pizza night to the next level? These Chicken Pesto Pizza Rolls are the perfect combination of flavors wrapped in a soft and delicious crust. Ideal for game day snacks, appetizers, or a fun weeknight dinner, these pizza rolls are packed with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and a vibrant pesto sauce that will have everyone coming back for more. Plus, they’re easy to make and even easier to devour!
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes these Chicken Pesto Pizza Rolls truly special is the combination of fresh ingredients and the ease of preparation. Unlike traditional pizzas, these rolls are portable and perfect for sharing. The creamy pesto sauce adds a burst of flavor that complements the tender chicken and crunchy vegetables, while the gooey cheese pulls everything together. Each bite is a delightful explosion of taste and texture, making these rolls a standout dish in any gathering.
Ingredient Breakdown
To create these mouthwatering Chicken Pesto Pizza Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 package Pillsbury Classic Crust Pizza Dough – The base for your rolls, providing a flaky and soft texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables, adding flavor and richness.
- 1/2 medium onion, sliced – Offers a sweet and savory crunch.
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced – Adds color and a slight sweetness.
- 1 (7-ounce) container refrigerated pesto – The star ingredient, bringing freshness and herbaceous notes.
- 1 cup chopped cooked chicken – Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience!
- 1 (8-ounce) package shredded mozzarella – Melts beautifully and gives that classic pizza flavor.
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty kick and depth of flavor.
- Marinara sauce, for serving – Perfect for dipping and enhancing the overall taste.
Gear Checklist
Before you dive into making these Chicken Pesto Pizza Rolls, gather the following tools:
- Baking sheet – To hold your rolls while they bake.
- Parchment paper – To prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
- Skillet – For sautéing the onions and bell peppers.
- Rolling pin – To flatten the pizza dough evenly.
- Sharp knife – For slicing the rolls and vegetables.
Chicken Pesto Pizza Rolls Cooking Guide
Ready to make your Chicken Pesto Pizza Rolls? Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures the rolls bake evenly and develop a golden crust.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, unroll the Pillsbury Classic Crust Pizza Dough. Use a rolling pin to spread it into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
Step 4: Assemble the Filling
Spread the refrigerated pesto evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the sautéed vegetables, chopped chicken, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese over the pesto layer.
Step 5: Roll It Up
Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough into a log shape. Make sure to keep the filling inside as you go. Pinch the seams to seal the roll.
Step 6: Slice the Rolls
Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough into 1-inch thick pieces. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each roll for expansion.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
Step 8: Serve
Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps
If you’re looking to modify this recipe for vegan or vegetarian diets, consider these swaps:
- Chopped vegetables – Replace chicken with extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.
- Vegan pesto – Use a plant-based pesto that doesn’t contain cheese.
- Dairy-free cheese – Substitute mozzarella and Parmesan with vegan cheese alternatives.
Behind the Recipe
These Chicken Pesto Pizza Rolls were inspired by the classic flavors of pizza but with a fun twist. The concept of rolling ingredients into a dough allows for creativity in the kitchen. You can easily adapt these rolls to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Plus, they make for a fantastic party appetizer or a cozy dinner option that everyone will enjoy.
Prep Ahead & Store
To make your meal prep easier, you can prepare these Chicken Pesto Pizza Rolls ahead of time:
- Make the filling
- Assemble and refrigerate – You can roll and slice the pizza rolls, then cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezing – You can freeze unbaked rolls. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and adds great flavor to your pizza rolls.
How do I know when the rolls are done baking?
The rolls should be golden brown and the cheese should be bubbly. You can also use a toothpick to check if the center is hot and cooked through.
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Yes! Feel free to get creative. Add ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives to customize your rolls.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pizza rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving again.
Healthy-ish Favorites
If you’re looking for more delicious recipes, check out these healthy-ish favorites:
Save & Share
If you enjoyed making these Chicken Pesto Pizza Rolls, don’t forget to share your creations on social media! Tag your friends and family, and let them join in on the fun. Whether it’s game day, a family gathering, or just a cozy night in, these rolls are sure to be a hit.
The Chicken Pesto Pizza Rolls are not only a delightful twist on classic pizza but also a versatile recipe that can be tailored to your preferences. Whether you enjoy them as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, the combination of pesto, chicken, and cheese wrapped in a soft dough is simply irresistible. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Chicken Pesto Pizza Rolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
- On a lightly floured surface, unroll the Pillsbury Classic Crust Pizza Dough. Use a rolling pin to spread it into a rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.
- Spread the refrigerated pesto evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the sautéed vegetables, chopped chicken, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese over the pesto layer.
- Starting from one end, carefully roll the dough into a log shape. Pinch the seams to seal the roll.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough into 1-inch thick pieces. Place the rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
- Once baked, remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Feel free to add your favorite veggies to the filling.
- These rolls can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.
