Chicken and Spinach Lasagna Rolls

Chicken and Spinach Lasagna Rolls are a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, offering all the rich, cheesy goodness of the classic dish in a fun and elegant rolled format. Each lasagna noodle is spread with a creamy mixture of chicken, spinach, and ricotta, then rolled tightly and baked in marinara sauce until perfectly bubbly.

This meal is both comforting and visually impressive, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or special gatherings. With balanced flavors, tender pasta, and hearty filling, it’s a dish that turns everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy to assemble, portion-friendly, and incredibly satisfying. The creamy chicken and spinach filling pairs beautifully with melted mozzarella and tangy marinara, creating a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite.

Unlike traditional lasagna, this version is less messy to serve and offers perfect portions without the need for slicing. It’s also customizable, freezer-friendly, and a great way to use leftover chicken. The individual rolls make it feel special while still being approachable and simple for home cooks.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it brings both comfort and elegance to your dinner table. The lasagna rolls are hearty yet lighter than classic layered lasagna thanks to the spinach, and they bake evenly every time. They’re great for meal prep, reheating beautifully for lunches or weeknight dinners.

The recipe is also incredibly versatile, accommodating different fillings, sauces, and cheeses. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for two, Chicken and Spinach Lasagna Rolls offer guaranteed flavor and convenience in one delicious package.

Recipe Details

CategoryInformation
CourseMain Course
CuisineItalian-American
Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time35–40 minutes
Total Time60–65 minutes
Servings6 servings (about 2 rolls per person)
Calories per Serving~420 calories

Ingredients

For the Lasagna Rolls

  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped
  • 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry (or 2 cups fresh sautéed spinach)
  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt

For Baking

  • 3 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Cooking Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and lay flat to prevent sticking.
  3. In a large bowl, combine chicken, spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, and seasonings. Mix well.
  4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
  5. Spread filling over each lasagna noodle, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish.
  6. Pour remaining marinara sauce over the rolls.
  7. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
  8. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 10–12 minutes until bubbling and golden.
  9. Garnish with herbs and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the lasagna noodles until tender. Drain and lay them on a parchment-lined surface to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, mix chicken, spinach, cheeses, egg, garlic, and seasonings until creamy and well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Spread a spoonful of filling evenly over each noodle. Roll gently but firmly without squeezing the filling out.

Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spread a light layer of marinara sauce across the bottom to prevent sticking and add moisture.

Step 5: Add Rolls to Dish

Arrange rolls seam-side down and pour remaining sauce over them.

Step 6: Bake

Cover with foil, bake until heated through, then uncover to brown the cheese topping.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the lasagna rolls hot with:

  • Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread
  • A fresh green salad
  • Steamed vegetables
  • A side of roasted broccoli or zucchini

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a restaurant-style finish.

Recipe Tips

  • Don’t overcook the lasagna noodles; slightly firm noodles roll more easily.
  • Drain spinach well to avoid watery filling.
  • Add a bit of cream cheese for an extra luscious filling.
  • Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and deeper flavor.
  • Let the rolls rest 5 minutes after baking for cleaner serving.

Variations

Alfredo Lasagna Rolls

Replace marinara with creamy Alfredo sauce and add sautéed mushrooms.

Spicy Chicken Rolls

Mix crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the filling.

Pesto Chicken Rolls

Add 2 tablespoons of basil pesto to the filling for bright, herbal flavor.

Veggie-Only Rolls

Replace chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a vegetarian option.

Tomato Cream Rolls

Use a sauce made from marinara mixed with a splash of cream or ricotta.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigerator

Store cooked lasagna rolls in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze uncooked or cooked rolls for up to 3 months.
Wrap individually for easy meal prep.

Reheating

  • Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
  • Microwave single portions for quick reheating.

Special Equipment Needed

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
  • Aluminum foil
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Fine-mesh strainer (for spinach)

FAQ

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, sauté fresh spinach until wilted and squeeze out moisture before using.

Can I use ground chicken?

Yes, cook it fully and let it cool before mixing into the filling.

Can this recipe be made ahead?

Yes, assemble the rolls and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, blend it slightly for a smoother texture.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Absolutely—mushrooms, shredded carrots, or zucchini work well.

Conclusion

Chicken and Spinach Lasagna Rolls offer a wholesome, comforting, and elegant twist on the classic lasagna. With their creamy filling, tender pasta, and rich marinara coating, they deliver the perfect balance of flavor and convenience. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe worth adding to your collection.

Chicken and Spinach Lasagna Rolls

Recipe by Elina JamesCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

25

minutes
Cooking time

35

minutes
Total time

1

hour 

Ingredients

  • For the Lasagna Rolls

  • 12 lasagna noodles

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped

  • 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry (or 2 cups fresh sautéed spinach)

  • 1 ½ cups ricotta cheese

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • ½ tsp salt

  • For Baking

  • 3 cups marinara sauce

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain and lay flat to prevent sticking.
  • In a large bowl, combine chicken, spinach, ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, and seasonings. Mix well.
  • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
  • Spread filling over each lasagna noodle, roll tightly, and place seam-side down in the dish.
  • Pour remaining marinara sauce over the rolls.
  • Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
  • Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes; remove foil and bake an additional 10–12 minutes until bubbling and golden.
  • Garnish with herbs and serve hot.

Comments are closed.