Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy Chicken Pesto Lasagna Roll Ups are a flavorful twist on traditional lasagna, combining tender shredded chicken, rich ricotta, vibrant pesto, and melty cheese all rolled into lasagna noodles and baked in a creamy white sauce. These individual portions are perfect for serving at dinner parties or weeknight meals and offer all the comforting flavors of lasagna with a fresh, herby kick.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

lasagna noodles
cooked shredded chicken
ricotta cheese
mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
pesto sauce
cream cheese
milk
butter
garlic
salt
pepper
Italian seasoning

directions

Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on parchment paper to cool.

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, ricotta, half of the mozzarella, pesto sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until evenly combined.

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.

Add cream cheese and stir until smooth, then slowly whisk in milk to create a creamy white sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of a greased baking dish.

Spoon the chicken-pesto mixture evenly onto each lasagna noodle and roll them up tightly.

Place the roll-ups seam side down in the prepared baking dish.

Pour the remaining white sauce over the roll-ups and sprinkle with the rest of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 roll ups.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Substitute spinach or kale for added greens in the filling.
Use Alfredo sauce instead of homemade white sauce for a shortcut.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Try ground turkey or sausage instead of chicken for a protein change.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F until warmed through.
Freeze roll ups before baking for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the roll ups, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely, store-bought pesto works great and saves time.

What kind of chicken should I use?
Rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken works perfectly.

Can I use no-boil noodles?
No, traditional boiled noodles are best for rolling and texture.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and use sautéed veggies like mushrooms or spinach instead.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe scales well for a crowd.

What can I serve with it?
Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread.

Is this freezer friendly?
Yes, both assembled unbaked and leftover baked portions freeze well.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Pesto Lasagna Roll Ups are a deliciously satisfying meal that brings together the best of comfort food and fresh Italian flavors. Easy to prepare and even easier to love, these roll ups are perfect for impressing guests or just switching up your weekly dinner routine.