Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls

Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated. These smoky cheesy jalapeño chicken rolls came to life one busy weeknight when I needed something fast, flavorful, and family-approved. Stuffed with gooey cheese, a little heat, and a whole lot of smoky flavor, they’ve become a go-to in our house. If you’ve got chicken breasts, a couple jalapeños, and a craving for comfort with a kick, you’re in for a treat.

Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls
Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls 6
Table of Contents

What is Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls?

Smoky cheesy jalapeño chicken rolls are tender chicken breasts flattened, filled with a creamy cheese and jalapeño mixture, then rolled up and baked until golden and bubbling. The smoky flavor usually comes from smoked paprika or chipotle seasoning blended into the filling or sprinkled on top. These rolls strike the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory in each bite. They’re low-carb, oven-friendly, and simple to prep ahead making them a smart choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. You can serve them as a main dish, appetizer, or even slice them for wraps the next day.

Why You’ll Love This

These smoky cheesy jalapeño chicken rolls are everything a busy weeknight dinner should be quick, crave-worthy, and low mess. They bake in under 30 minutes and bring big flavor without frying or fancy steps. The creamy filling tames the heat just enough, so it’s family-friendly but still bold. Plus, they’re naturally low in carbs, which makes them perfect for anyone cutting back without giving up comfort food. Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding a crowd, this dish delivers every time. It’s one of those recipes that tastes like you tried way harder than you actually did.

How to Make Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls

Quick Overview

This recipe is fast, flavorful, and oven-friendly. You’ll flatten chicken breasts, spread a smoky cheesy filling, roll them up, and bake until golden. From prep to plate, it takes about 50 minutes total, with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • ½ cup cream cheese, softened
  • ¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar
  • 2–3 jalapeños, deseeded and diced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil spray (optional)

Step-by-Step

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally and pound to about ¼ inch thick.
  3. In a bowl, mix cream cheese, cheddar, jalapeños, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Spread the cheese filling over each piece of chicken, then roll tightly.
  5. Place seam-side down in the baking dish. Lightly spray with olive oil and sprinkle a bit more smoked paprika on top.
  6. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the tops are golden and slightly crisp.
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Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls

Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls


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  • Author: Vanessa
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

These smoky cheesy jalapeño chicken rolls are bold, spicy, creamy, and low-carb. The perfect fast dinner with big flavor and easy cleanup.


Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

½ cup cream cheese, softened

¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar

23 jalapeños, deseeded and diced

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil spray (optional)


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Slice each chicken breast in half horizontally and pound flat to ¼ inch thickness.

3. Mix cream cheese, cheddar, jalapeños, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

4. Spread a spoonful of filling on each piece of chicken and roll tightly.

5. Place seam-side down in the dish, spray with oil, and sprinkle more paprika on top.

6. Bake for 25–30 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tops are golden.

7. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Add a pinch of chipotle powder for extra smoky depth.

Use gloves when handling jalapeños to avoid irritation.

To reheat, bake at 350°F for 15 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 8 minutes.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 roll
  • Calories: 325
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 410mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 11g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

What to Serve With Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls

These smoky cheesy jalapeño chicken rolls bring big, bold flavor, so you’ll want sides that balance the richness without competing. For something fresh and bright, a bowl of this Italian Dense Bean Salad is a perfect match it’s hearty, herby, and cool enough to cut through the heat. On the warmer side, try a scoop of Sheet Pan Sticky Sweet and Sour Chicken if you’re making a fun dinner spread or want a sweet-savory contrast. You can also serve the rolls with garlic roasted veggies, a dollop of sour cream, or even wrap leftovers in a tortilla for a next-day meal.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Start with thin, even chicken pieces this helps the rolls cook uniformly and keeps the filling from leaking out. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to flatten them to about ¼ inch thick. Don’t overfill; a heaping tablespoon of the cheese-jalapeño mixture is usually enough. For extra smoky depth, mix a pinch of chipotle powder into the filling or lightly dust the tops before baking. Want crispier tops? Broil the rolls for the last 2–3 minutes. And always let them rest for 5 minutes after baking so the cheese sets inside no melty mess when you slice in.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? You’re in luck these rolls reheat like a dream. Store cooled smoky cheesy jalapeño chicken rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For freezing, wrap each roll tightly in foil, then seal in a zip bag; they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 12–15 minutes, or use the air fryer for a crispier finish (about 8 minutes at 375°F). Microwave works too, but go low and slow so the cheese stays creamy, not rubbery. Always slice one open to make sure it’s heated through.

Conclusion

If you’re craving bold flavor, easy prep, and a little heat, these smoky cheesy jalapeño chicken rolls are about to become your new weeknight favorite. They check all the boxes creamy, spicy, low-carb, and freezer-friendly. Whether you serve them fresh from the oven or tuck a few into meal prep containers, they deliver big flavor with barely any cleanup. Add them to your dinner rotation, and don’t be surprised if they disappear fast. Got leftovers? Even better.

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FAQ

Can I make Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls ahead of time?

Yes, these chicken rolls are great for prepping ahead. You can assemble them up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake. They also freeze well, either before or after baking.

What’s the best cheese for Jalapeño Chicken Rolls?

Sharp cheddar is the classic choice it melts beautifully and pairs well with smoky flavors. You can also mix in mozzarella for stretch, or use pepper jack if you want even more heat.

How do I make these chicken rolls less spicy?

Simply remove all the seeds from the jalapeños or swap them for mild green chilies. You can also use less jalapeño and balance the filling with extra cream cheese to mellow the heat.

Are Smoky Cheesy Jalapeño Chicken Rolls keto-friendly?

Yes, they’re naturally low in carbs. Just skip any starchy sides and serve with greens, cauliflower mash, or roasted vegetables for a fully keto-friendly meal.

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