Creamy Chicken Pesto Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe

These Creamy Chicken Pesto Lasagna Roll Ups are everything you didn’t know you needed in a weeknight dinner. Tender lasagna noodles are rolled up with juicy shredded chicken, creamy ricotta, rich pesto, and a decadent Alfredo sauce, then baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s a fun and elegant twist on traditional lasagna that comes together more quickly than you’d expect—perfect for feeding a hungry family or impressing guests without breaking a sweat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: You can prep everything ahead of time and simply roll, pour, and bake when you’re ready.
• Big on Flavor: Creamy Alfredo, garlicky pesto, savory chicken, and melty cheese—need I say more?
• Perfect for Weeknights or Guests: This looks and tastes like a fancy dish, but it’s weeknight-friendly and reheats beautifully.
• Kid and Family Approved: The mild creamy flavors with just the right amount of herbaceous punch make this a hit for even picky eaters.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down what goes into these roll ups and why each ingredient matters:

• Lasagna Noodles: These are the base of the roll ups. Cook until al dente to prevent tearing during rolling.
• Cooked Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a huge time saver here and adds plenty of flavor.
• Ricotta Cheese: Adds a creamy, slightly tangy base to the filling. You can mix with a bit of mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts beautifully and gives that gooey, stringy cheese pull everyone loves.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, salty depth to the sauce and topping.
• Pesto: Go for a basil pesto—store-bought works great, but homemade adds a special touch.
• Alfredo Sauce: Creamy and indulgent. Jarred is totally fine, but feel free to make your own if time allows.
• Garlic Powder & Italian Seasoning: Enhances the flavors and ties everything together.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste—don’t skip this step!

Variations

There are so many fun ways to play with this recipe:

• Spinach Addition: Mix in chopped spinach to the ricotta for a veggie boost.
• Swap the Meat: Try shredded turkey, ground sausage, or even cooked mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Different Sauce: Use marinara or a vodka sauce for a tomato-based version.
• Cheese Variety: Add provolone, fontina, or a smoky gouda for a different flavor profile.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pesto Lasagna Roll Ups

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Boil your lasagna noodles until just tender, then lay them flat on parchment or a lightly greased surface to keep them from sticking.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, ricotta, a spoonful of pesto, some shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Roll It Up

Spoon the filling evenly across each noodle, then roll them up gently but firmly. Place seam side down in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Pour the Sauce

Mix the Alfredo sauce with a few more spoonfuls of pesto and pour half of it into the baking dish. Nestle the roll ups in, then top with the remaining sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and parmesan.

Step 5: Bake

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow everything to set.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook Noodles: Slightly undercooked noodles roll more easily and won’t fall apart.
• Use a Cookie Scoop: For evenly portioned filling that makes rolling faster and cleaner.
• Fresh Basil Garnish: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor at the end.
• Let Them Rest: Allow the roll ups to sit after baking—this helps the layers firm up and makes them easier to serve.

How to Serve

These roll ups are rich and satisfying, so keep your sides light and fresh:

Side Ideas:

• A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli
• Garlic bread or a warm baguette for sauce scooping

Garnishes:

• Sprinkle fresh chopped basil or parsley on top
• Add a drizzle of extra pesto for even more flavor

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully in the microwave or oven.

Freezing

Assemble the roll ups completely, cover tightly with foil, and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Reheating

Reheat covered in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly, or use the microwave in short bursts. Add a splash of cream or milk if it looks dry.

FAQs

Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?
You can, but it’s not ideal here. No-boil noodles don’t roll as well and may tear. Stick to regular boiled noodles for best results.

What’s the best pesto to use?
A classic basil pesto works wonderfully. If you want to switch things up, try sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto for a unique twist.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.

How can I make it lighter?
Swap out ricotta for cottage cheese, use light Alfredo sauce, and reduce the mozzarella if you’re watching calories. It’ll still taste fantastic.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dinner that’s creamy, cozy, and packed with flavor—this Creamy Chicken Pesto Lasagna Roll Ups recipe is calling your name. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to wow everyone at the table. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food!

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