Delightful & Healthy Chicken Rollatini: Your Go-To Weight Watchers Dinner

Discover the ultimate weeknight hero: Chicken Rollatini. This flavorful dish offers a lighter, juicier alternative to classic Chicken Cordon Bleu, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a healthier meal without sacrificing taste. Thin, tender chicken cutlets are lovingly filled with a blend of melty cheese and lean ham, then rolled up and gently simmered in a rich, savory marinara sauce instead of being fried. The result is an incredibly satisfying dinner that’s bursting with flavor, remarkably easy to prepare, and enthusiastically approved by the whole family.

Not only is Chicken Rollatini a delight for your taste buds, but it’s also incredibly health-conscious, coming in at just 1 Weight Watchers Point per serving. This makes it an ideal option for anyone following the Weight Watchers program or simply looking for smart, delicious ways to enjoy their meals. If you’re eager to explore more easy, WW-friendly dinners that keep you on track, be sure to browse our extensive collection of Weight Watchers dinner ideas. They are designed to prove that healthy eating can be both simple and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Chicken Rollatini Recipe

Chicken Rollatini isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal that fits perfectly into a healthy lifestyle. Here’s why this dish will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

• Effortlessly Delicious: Despite its elegant appearance, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward to make, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Weight Watchers Friendly: At just 1 WW Point per serving, it’s a guilt-free pleasure that supports your health goals.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, savory ham, melted cheese, and aromatic marinara sauce creates a symphony of tastes.
• Kid and Family Approved: Its appealing flavors and fun roll-up format make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• Versatile Serving Options: It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, from light salads to hearty vegetable dishes, allowing for endless meal combinations.
• Lighter Alternative: By simmering in marinara instead of frying, you get all the deliciousness without the added calories and fat of traditional fried dishes.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Many components can be prepped ahead of time, simplifying your dinner routine even further.

Recipe Overview

Get ready to cook a fantastic meal. Here’s a quick glance at what you need to know about preparing this delightful Chicken Rollatini:

• Serving Size: 1 roll
• Number of Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• 1 WW Point Per Serving. You can view the recipe on the WW App here. (WW login required for access.)

This streamlined process ensures you can enjoy a gourmet-quality meal even on your busiest days.

Ingredients in Chicken Rollatini

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this mouth-watering dish. You’ll find that all components are readily available, focusing on fresh and lean options to maintain the recipe’s healthy profile.

• Chicken Breasts: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 450 g), sliced into thin cutlets. Pounding them thin is key for even cooking and easy rolling.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, for seasoning the chicken, adding a foundational aromatic flavor.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken. Adjust to your preference.
• Smoked Turkey Ham: 2 slices, extra lean and finely chopped. This provides a smoky, savory depth to the filling while keeping it light.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: ½ cup (approx. 60g). For that irresistible melty, cheesy goodness inside each rollatini. Using a low-fat variety can further reduce points if desired.
• Dried Oregano: ½ teaspoon, to infuse the filling with classic Italian herb notes.
• Olive Oil or Oil Spray: 1 teaspoon or light spray, for searing the chicken, promoting a golden-brown exterior and sealing in juices.
• No-Sugar-Added Neapolitan (Marinara) Sauce: 1½ to 2 cups (360–480 ml). A high-quality, no-sugar-added sauce is crucial for keeping the recipe healthy and flavorful.
• Water: A splash, if needed, to adjust the consistency of the marinara sauce, ensuring it beautifully coats the chicken.
• Wooden Toothpicks: Several, soaked in water for 10 minutes. These are essential for securing the rolls during cooking.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: For garnish, adding a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color just before serving.

Instructions for Making Chicken Rollatini

Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfect Chicken Rollatini every time. Precision and care in each stage ensure a tender, juicy, and delicious outcome.

1. Prepare the Chicken Cutlets: Begin by slicing your boneless, skinless chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Place each cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or a rolling pin, pound them evenly until they are about ¼-inch thick. This ensures they cook quickly and roll easily. Season both sides of each flattened cutlet generously with salt and garlic powder, making sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
2. Craft the Flavorful Filling: In a small bowl, combine the finely chopped extra-lean smoked turkey ham with the shredded mozzarella cheese and dried oregano. Use your fingers to thoroughly mix and press the ingredients together. The goal is to form a compact, moldable mixture that resembles a soft ball. This prevents the filling from scattering and helps it stay securely inside the chicken as it cooks.
3. Assemble the Rollatini: Lay out each seasoned chicken cutlet flat. Place a small, equal portion of the prepared filling in the center of each cutlet, positioning it closer to one of the narrower ends. Carefully roll the chicken tightly over the filling, starting from the narrower end. Once rolled, secure each chicken rollatini with two wooden toothpicks. Insert them diagonally through the roll; this technique provides a better grip and prevents the rolls from unraveling during the cooking process.
4. Sear to Perfection: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a teaspoon of olive oil or lightly coat the pan with oil spray. Once hot, carefully place the chicken rolls into the skillet, seam-side down first. Sear them for just 1 to 2 minutes on each side. The objective here is to lightly brown the exterior and seal the rolls, helping to keep the delicious filling inside. Be careful not to overcook the chicken at this stage, as excessive heat can cause the cheese to leak out prematurely.
5. Simmer in Marinara: After the rollatini are beautifully sealed and lightly browned, slightly reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour the no-sugar-added marinara sauce evenly around the chicken rolls in the pan. If you find the sauce too thick for your liking, add a splash of water to achieve a desired consistency. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the chicken rollatini simmer gently for 10 minutes. This simmering time allows the chicken to cook through, become incredibly tender, and absorb all the wonderful flavors of the marinara.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the wooden toothpicks from each rollatini. Serve them immediately while hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for a burst of aroma and color. Chicken Rollatini pairs wonderfully with a variety of light and healthy sides such as roasted zucchini, fluffy cauliflower rice, or a crisp green salad. Consider serving with a side of whole wheat pasta for a more substantial meal, or alongside steamed green beans.

Expert Tips & Tricks for Perfect Chicken Rollatini

Having perfected this dish after several attempts (and learning from a few unrolled mishaps!), I’ve gathered some invaluable tips to ensure your Chicken Rollatini turns out beautifully every single time. These insights will help you avoid common pitfalls and achieve juicy, flavorful results:

• Pounding the Cutlets is Non-Negotiable: This step is absolutely essential for tender, evenly cooked chicken that rolls easily. You can use a dedicated meat tenderizer for best results. If you don’t have one, simply place the chicken between sheets of wax paper or plastic wrap and flatten them with a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy skillet. Aim for an even ¼-inch thickness. Be careful not to tear the chicken; gentle, consistent pressure is key. The thinner and more uniform your cutlets, the more quickly and evenly they will cook.
• Ensure a Compact Filling: The filling needs to be a cohesive mass to prevent it from leaking out during cooking. After mixing the ham, cheese, and oregano, firmly press the mixture together with your fingers. If you find it’s a bit too crumbly or loose, a small trick is to add a tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt or a tiny bit of cream cheese. This acts as a binder, helping the filling stay together and preventing any delicious cheesy escapes.
• Pre-Soak Wooden Toothpicks and Pierce Diagonally: Before using wooden toothpicks to secure your rollatini, soak them in water for at least 10 minutes. This simple step prevents them from burning or charring in the hot pan. Furthermore, instead of piercing straight through, insert the toothpicks diagonally. This method provides a much more secure grip on the chicken, holding the rolls firmly in place as they sear and simmer. Always double-check and remove all toothpicks before serving!
• Avoid Over-Browning the Chicken: When searing the chicken, aim for a light golden-brown color on each side, just enough to seal the exterior. Over-browning or cooking for too long at this initial stage increases the likelihood of the cheese melting and leaking out of the rolls. The goal is to create a light crust and set the shape, not to fully cook the chicken.
• Choose Your Marinara Wisely: Opt for a marinara sauce with no added sugar to keep the dish healthy and highlight the natural flavors. If you want to elevate the flavor profile, you can add a splash of dry white wine to the sauce (allow it to simmer for a few minutes to evaporate the alcohol) or stir in fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or extra basil at the end of cooking. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a pleasant kick.
• The 10-Minute Simmer Rule: Once you’ve added the sauce and covered the pan, adhere strictly to the 10-minute cooking time over medium-low heat. This duration is perfectly calibrated to cook the chicken through, ensuring it remains incredibly tender and juicy. Cooking it longer will dry out the chicken, making it tough and rubbery, often referred to as “shoe leather.”

Delicious Serving Suggestions

Chicken Rollatini is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

• Roasted or Steamed Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, asparagus, green beans, or broccoli make excellent light and healthy accompaniments.
• Cauliflower Rice: A fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional rice, perfect for soaking up the delicious marinara sauce.
• Light Green Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds freshness and crunch.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve your rollatini over a small portion of whole wheat spaghetti or penne, tossed with a little extra marinara.
• Quinoa or Brown Rice: These whole grains offer a nutritious base and complement the flavors of the chicken.
• Polenta: Creamy polenta is a comforting and classic Italian pairing that perfectly soaks up the sauce.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of whole-grain crusty bread is great for dipping into any leftover sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Rollatini

Here are answers to some common questions about making and enjoying Chicken Rollatini:

Can I prepare Chicken Rollatini ahead of time?

Yes! You can certainly do some prep in advance. You can pound and season the chicken cutlets, and prepare the ham and cheese filling up to a day ahead. Store the chicken and filling separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the rollatini rolls, secure them with toothpicks, and store them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before searing and simmering. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!

Can I freeze cooked Chicken Rollatini?

Absolutely. Cooked Chicken Rollatini freezes well. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer the rollatini and sauce to an airtight, freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the oven until heated through. You might need a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

What kind of cheese is best for the filling?

While shredded mozzarella is specified for its excellent melting properties and mild flavor, you can experiment! Provolone, fontina, or even a blend of Italian cheeses could work beautifully. Just be mindful of the fat content if you’re tracking Weight Watchers points.

What if I don’t have smoked turkey ham?

If you don’t have smoked turkey ham, you can use regular lean turkey slices, finely chopped, or even lean cooked ham. For a different flavor profile, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the filling for an extra vegetable boost.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add a touch of heat, simply incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the marinara sauce when you add it to the pan, or even mix a tiny amount into the filling. Adjust the quantity to your preferred spice level.

Is this Chicken Rollatini recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, assuming your marinara sauce does not contain any hidden gluten. Always check the labels of your ingredients, especially for processed items like sauces, to ensure they are certified gluten-free if strict dietary requirements are necessary.

How should I store leftovers?

Leftover Chicken Rollatini should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Related Recipes

If you loved this healthy and delicious Chicken Rollatini, you might also enjoy these other Weight Watchers friendly chicken recipes:

• Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu (with a WW twist)
• Low Point Chicken Chimichurri
• Comforting Chicken Stuffing Casserole

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Chicken Rollatini

Servings:
4

Total:

25 minutes
mins

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Juicy chicken breast stuffed with meat and herbs, simmered in marinara.

Ingredients

• ▢ 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin cutlets, 450 g.
• ▢ 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1 teaspoon salt
• ▢ ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ▢ 2 slices of smoked turkey ham, extra lean, finely chopped
• ▢ ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ▢ 1 teaspoon olive oil or oil spray
• ▢ 1½ to 2 cups no-sugar-added Neapolitan, marinara sauce (360–480 ml)
• ▢ A splash of water, if needed, to loosen the sauce
• ▢ Wooden toothpicks, soaked in water for 10 minutes
• ▢ Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

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Instructions

• Place the chicken cutlets between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper and pound them with a meat mallet or rolling pin until they’re thin and even. Season both sides of each cutlet with salt and garlic powder.
• In a small bowl, mix the finely chopped turkey ham with the shredded mozzarella and a pinch of oregano. Press the mixture together with your fingers to form a compact filling — it should be moldable like a soft ball.
• Place a small portion of the filling in the center of each cutlet. Roll the chicken tightly over the filling, starting from the narrower end. Secure the rolls with wooden toothpicks, inserting them diagonally so they stay in place during cooking.
• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and add the oil or spray lightly with oil. Place the chicken rolls seam-side down and sear them for 1 to 2 minutes on each side, just enough to lightly brown the outside and seal them — avoid overcooking at this point to keep the cheese from leaking.
• Once the rollatinis are sealed, lower the heat slightly and pour the marinara sauce around them in the pan. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water. Cover the skillet with a lid and let them cook over medium-low heat for 10 minutes.
• Remove the toothpicks carefully and serve the rollatini hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves. They pair wonderfully with roasted zucchini, cauliflower rice, or a light green salad.

Notes

1 point per serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 232g


Calories: 252kcal


Carbohydrates: 4.4g


Protein: 33g


Fat: 9.3g


Saturated Fat: 2.2g


Cholesterol: 97mg


Sodium: 1366mg


Potassium: 449mg


Fiber: 2.3g


Sugar: 3.8g


Calcium: 126mg


Iron: 1.3mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course:
Main Course

Cuisine:
Italian

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Conclusion: A Healthy, Flavorful Meal Awaits!

Chicken Rollatini is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to enjoy a lighter, healthier take on a classic comfort food. With its tender chicken, savory filling, and luscious marinara sauce, it delivers a satisfying dining experience that supports your wellness goals without compromising on taste. Easy enough for a weeknight and elegant enough for special occasions, this dish is truly a culinary gem. We encourage you to try this recipe and experience the delightful flavors and simplicity of healthy eating. Happy cooking!