Indulge in the savory goodness of Bacon Wrapped Cream Cheese Chicken Rollups, a mouthwatering recipe that combines tender chicken cutlets with creamy cheese and crispy bacon. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the following ingredients:
- 1.5-2 pounds chicken cutlets
- 1 8-oz package light cream cheese
- 3 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Bacon slices
- 2 tsp. light butter, melted
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1/4 tsp. paprika
Instructions:
Follow these simple steps to create Bacon Wrapped Cream Cheese Chicken Rollups:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Prepare Chicken: Lay the chicken cutlets flat on a cutting board. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the light cream cheese and chopped green onions. Mix until well combined.
- Spread Cream Cheese Mixture: Spread a generous amount of the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken cutlet.
- Roll Chicken: Roll up each chicken cutlet tightly, ensuring the cream cheese mixture is enclosed.
- Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each rolled chicken cutlet with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
- Coat with Butter and Bread Crumbs: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, bread crumbs, and paprika. Brush the mixture over each bacon-wrapped chicken rollup.
- Bake: Place the rollups on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
- Serve: Remove the toothpicks before serving. Garnish with additional chopped green onions or parsley if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
Here are some tips and variations to enhance your Bacon Wrapped Cream Cheese Chicken Rollups:
- Add Heat: For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the cream cheese mixture.
- Cheese Variation: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as shredded cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique flavor twist.
- Herb Infusion: Mix chopped fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary into the cream cheese mixture for added freshness and flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s how you can modify the recipe:
Keto Version:
- Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese: Opt for full-fat cream cheese instead of light cream cheese to increase the fat content and make it more keto-friendly.
- Almond Flour Coating: Replace the bread crumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb coating.
Low-Carb Version:
- Bread Crumbs Substitute: Omit the bread crumbs altogether or use a low-carb alternative like crushed pork rinds for added crunch without the carbs.
- Reduced Cream Cheese: Use a smaller amount of cream cheese to lower the carb content while still enjoying the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Let’s address some common questions about making Bacon Wrapped Cream Cheese Chicken Rollups:
Q: Can I use regular cream cheese instead of light cream cheese? A: Yes, you can use regular cream cheese if you prefer a richer flavor. Adjust the amount to taste.
Q: Can I prepare these rollups ahead of time? A: Absolutely! You can assemble the rollups ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just be sure to remove them from the fridge and let them come to room temperature before baking.
Q: Can I grill these rollups instead of baking them? A: Yes, you can grill the rollups over medium-high heat for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
Bacon Wrapped Cream Cheese Chicken Rollups are a delightful combination of creamy, cheesy goodness wrapped in crispy bacon. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these rollups are sure to impress with their irresistible flavor and texture. Plus, with keto and low-carb options available, they’re a versatile dish that can accommodate various dietary preferences. So gather your ingredients and prepare to savor every bite of this delectable recipe!
