Ingredients
For the Pesto
- 3 cups packed basil leaves
- 3 cloves garlic
- 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup olive oil
For the Rolls
- 9-12 lasagna noodles
- 1 lb chicken breast, trimmed
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2-1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Cook Lasagna Noodles: Bring a large stockpot of water to a boil and cook 9 to 12 lasagna noodles according to the manufacturer’s directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the lasagna rolls later.
- Cook Chicken: Cook the chicken breast using your preferred method (such as boiling, baking, or pan-cooking). Season with salt and pepper, then shred the cooked chicken with forks. Set aside. (Note: Boiling or poaching helps keep chicken moist for shredding.)
- Make Pesto Sauce: In a food processor, combine packed basil leaves and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped. Add Parmesan cheese, then slowly drizzle in olive oil with the processor running until the mixture reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency. Transfer the pesto to a small bowl.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, large egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully incorporated.
- Assemble Rolls: Lay one or two lasagna noodles flat. Spread a light layer of pesto sauce evenly over each noodle. Add a layer of the ricotta mixture on top, then sprinkle shredded chicken evenly over the ricotta. Carefully roll each noodle and place seam side down in a rectangular baking dish. Repeat until all noodles and fillings are used.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour tomato sauce evenly over the assembled rolls. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top to cover the rolls.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the sauce is heated through.
Notes
- You can cook chicken breast by boiling, baking, or sautéing depending on your preference; boiling keeps the chicken moist for shredding.
- If you prefer, substitute fresh mozzarella for shredded mozzarella for a creamier texture.
- Make sure noodles are fully drained and slightly cooled before spreading to prevent tearing.
- Use fresh basil for the pesto to achieve the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian