Introduction

Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delightful fusion of savory chicken, earthy mushrooms, and creamy pesto, all wrapped in delicate lasagna noodles. This dish is the perfect balance of comforting and sophisticated, offering a twist on the classic lasagna that combines rich flavors with a fresh, herby twist. The tender chicken, sautéed mushrooms, and vibrant pesto sauce come together in a way that feels both indulgent and light, making it a dish that works for any occasion.

I first tried this recipe on a whim, looking for something a little different from my usual lasagna routine, and I’m so glad I did! The combination of the creamy pesto and the earthy mushrooms brings an unexpected depth of flavor to the dish. As soon as I took that first bite, I knew it was going to become a new favorite. It’s one of those meals that makes you feel cozy and satisfied, but also a little fancy at the same time!

What I love most about Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups is how easily they can be tailored to your taste. Whether you prefer more mushrooms, extra pesto, or a different cheese, this dish invites creativity. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal when you want something comforting yet exciting, or for a weekend gathering when you want to impress your guests. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for a meal that’s sure to be a hit at the table!

Perfect for:

Family dinners
Special occasions
Potlucks
Comfort food cravings
Pasta lovers

Why You’ll Love This Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups

Here’s why Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups will become your new favorite dish:

Unique Twist on Classic Lasagna: Instead of traditional layers, this recipe uses lasagna noodles rolled up with delicious filling, creating a fun, easy-to-serve version of the classic.
Creamy Pesto Sauce: The pesto sauce brings a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor that complements the savory chicken and mushrooms perfectly.
Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of chicken and mushrooms makes this dish hearty enough to satisfy any hunger, without being too heavy.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe is perfect for prepping in advance. You can assemble the roll-ups and refrigerate them before baking, making dinner a breeze.
Vegetarian Option: Easily swap out the chicken for more mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein for a vegetarian version of this dish.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups:

12 lasagna noodles
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Highlights

Lasagna Noodles: These provide the structure for the roll-ups. Choose high-quality noodles for the best texture.
Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken adds lean protein and a savory depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
Mushrooms: The earthy flavor and texture of mushrooms make them a fantastic addition, giving the dish a hearty, umami-packed punch.
Pesto Sauce: This sauce, made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan, adds a burst of vibrant flavor that elevates the dish.
Ricotta Cheese: It provides a creamy and slightly sweet contrast to the pesto and is essential for the filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups:

Cook the Lasagna Noodles:

Boil the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool.

Prepare the Filling:

Sauté the Mushrooms: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until they soften and release their moisture. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Shred the Chicken: While the mushrooms are cooking, shred the cooked chicken using two forks or your hands. Set aside.
Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, sautéed mushrooms, ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and half of the pesto sauce. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Roll-Ups:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread the Sauce: Spread a thin layer of the remaining pesto sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add extra flavor.
Fill the Noodles: Lay each lasagna noodle flat on a clean surface. Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken and mushroom mixture along the length of each noodle. Carefully roll up each noodle and place it seam side down in the baking dish.
Top with Sauce: Once all the roll-ups are in the dish, pour the remaining pesto sauce and heavy cream over the top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for a gooey, melty finish.

Bake the Lasagna Roll-Ups:

Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Cool and Serve: Let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

How to Serve Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups

Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delicious main dish that pairs well with a variety of sides:

With a Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette to add freshness and balance to the rich lasagna.
With Garlic Bread: A slice of crusty garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to soak up the creamy pesto sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Pair the roll-ups with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a well-rounded meal.
With a Light Soup: Serve with a light vegetable or tomato soup to create a comforting, hearty meal.
With a Glass of White Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay to complement the creamy flavors of the pesto.

Additional Tips for Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups

Here are some tips to make your Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups even better:

Use Fresh Herbs: If you’re making your own pesto sauce, use fresh basil for the most vibrant flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles just until al dente, as they will continue to cook while baking in the oven.
Shred the Chicken: If you prefer, you can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, or even substitute the chicken with cooked ground turkey or sausage.
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the filling for extra nutrients and flavor.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to make this dish gluten-free.

Recipe Variations for Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups

Here are 10 variations you can try for Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups:

Spinach and Artichoke: Add chopped spinach and artichoke hearts to the filling for a Mediterranean twist.
Vegan Version: Use dairy-free ricotta, vegan pesto, and plant-based chicken for a vegan-friendly version.
Buffalo Chicken: Swap the pesto for buffalo sauce and add some crumbled blue cheese for a spicy kick.
Lasagna Roll-Ups with Shrimp: Use shrimp in place of the chicken for a seafood variation.
Pesto Alfredo: Mix pesto with Alfredo sauce to create a creamy, flavorful combination.
Bacon and Mushroom: Add crispy bacon bits to the filling for a smoky flavor.
Cheesy Pesto Chicken: Add an extra layer of Parmesan cheese between the rolls for extra cheesiness.
Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups: Replace the lasagna noodles with thinly sliced zucchini for a low-carb, gluten-free option.
Tomato Basil Chicken: Add a layer of fresh tomato and basil leaves inside the roll-ups for a fresh twist.
Greek-Inspired: Use feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and roasted red peppers in the filling for a Greek-inspired version.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: To freeze, assemble the roll-ups in the baking dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, remove from the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight before baking as directed.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Special Equipment for Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups

Here are some special equipment items that make preparing Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups easier:

Large Pot: A large pot is essential for cooking the lasagna noodles.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet is perfect for sautéing the mushrooms and cooking the chicken.
9×13-inch Baking Dish: A medium-sized baking dish is ideal for assembling and baking the roll-ups.
Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining the filling ingredients.
Plastic Wrap or Aluminum Foil: For covering the dish while baking to retain moisture and prevent burning.

FAQ Section for Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the roll-ups the day before and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.
Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely! Store-bought pesto is a great time-saver and will work perfectly in this recipe.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled roll-ups. Make sure to freeze them before baking, and then thaw before cooking.
What other vegetables can I add to the filling?
Feel free to add spinach, bell peppers, or even roasted eggplant for added flavor and texture.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like goat cheese, ricotta salata, or even a blend of Italian cheeses for different flavors.

Conclusion

Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups are a delicious blend of hearty chicken, savory mushrooms, and a rich pesto sauce, all wrapped up in lasagna noodles for an elegant yet easy-to-serve dish. The combination of creamy and flavorful layers makes this meal perfect for a cozy dinner or as the star of a dinner party. Its unique twist on traditional lasagna will surely impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to your liking. You can add extra vegetables, swap out the chicken for another protein, or even use gluten-free noodles for a customized version. No matter how you tweak it, the result will be a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

I can’t wait to see how your Pesto Mushroom Chicken Lasagna Roll-Ups turn out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I love seeing your delicious creations. Enjoy making and sharing this recipe with your loved ones!