Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Roll-Ups Recipe

Let me tell you, weeknight dinners can be a battlefield. Between work deadlines, school runs, and the general chaos of family life, the last thing I want to do is spend hours slaving away in the kitchen. That’s why recipes that are both quick and genuinely delicious are pure gold in our household. Enter, stage right, the Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Roll-Ups. Initially, I was skeptical. Chicken roll-ups? Sounded a bit… dated. But the lure of “everything bagel” anything is strong in my book, and the air fryer promised speed. Well, let me just say, these little rolls of joy have become a weekly staple. The first time I made them, my kids, who are usually picky eaters, devoured them. My husband, a self-proclaimed “meat and potatoes” guy, went back for seconds. The crispy, golden-brown exterior, the juicy, tender chicken, and that burst of savory, aromatic everything bagel seasoning – it’s a flavor and texture explosion that’s surprisingly sophisticated yet completely kid-friendly. And the best part? They are incredibly easy to make, especially with the magic of the air fryer. Forget bland, boring chicken dinners. These Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Roll-Ups are a game-changer, transforming ordinary chicken breasts into a fun, flavorful, and satisfying meal that everyone at the table will love. Trust me, give these a try – you might just find your new weeknight dinner hero too.

Ingredients

To create these delightful Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Roll-Ups, you will need the following ingredients. It’s a relatively short and straightforward list, emphasizing fresh flavors and pantry staples. Remember, the quality of your ingredients will directly impact the final taste, so opting for good quality chicken and fresh cream cheese is highly recommended. This recipe is designed to be flexible, so feel free to adjust quantities based on your family size or appetite.

• Chicken Breasts: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 2 medium-sized breasts). The foundation of our roll-ups, chicken breasts provide a lean protein source and a blank canvas for flavor. Aim for breasts that are relatively uniform in size for even cooking. You can use fresh or thawed frozen chicken breasts. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before starting preparation.
• Cream Cheese: 4 ounces cream cheese, softened. The creamy heart of our roll-ups, softened cream cheese adds richness, moisture, and a delightful tang that balances the savory everything bagel seasoning. Full-fat cream cheese provides the best flavor and texture, but you can use reduced-fat if you prefer. Make sure the cream cheese is properly softened at room temperature to ensure it spreads smoothly.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning: 2-3 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning. The star of the show! This seasoning blend is what elevates these roll-ups from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s a fragrant mix typically containing sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, and salt flakes. You can find it pre-made in most grocery stores, or easily make your own homemade version if you prefer to control the ingredients. The amount can be adjusted to your taste – start with 2 tablespoons and add more if you desire a stronger everything bagel flavor.
• Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: 1 tablespoon olive oil, or cooking spray. A little olive oil or cooking spray is essential for preventing the chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket and promoting browning and crisping. Olive oil adds a subtle flavor, while cooking spray offers a lower-fat option.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Simple but crucial seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and cream cheese. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for its superior aroma and taste. Season generously to ensure the roll-ups are flavorful throughout.
• Optional Add-ins (for extra flavor and customization):
  • Fresh Herbs: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives, parsley, or dill. Adding fresh herbs to the cream cheese mixture brightens the flavor and adds a touch of freshness. Chives, parsley, and dill are particularly complementary to cream cheese and chicken.
  • Garlic Powder or Onion Powder: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder (or a combination). If you want to amplify the garlic and onion notes in the everything bagel seasoning, a touch of garlic or onion powder added to the cream cheese mixture can do the trick.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste). For a subtle kick of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes in the cream cheese mixture adds a pleasant warmth without being overpowering.
  • Shredded Cheese: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack cheese. For extra cheesy goodness, you can sprinkle a little shredded cheese over the cream cheese before rolling up the chicken. Cheddar adds sharpness, mozzarella offers mildness and stretch, and Monterey Jack provides a creamy melt.

Instructions

These Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Roll-Ups are surprisingly straightforward to prepare. The process is broken down into easy-to-follow steps, ensuring even novice cooks can achieve delicious results. Read through the instructions before you begin to familiarize yourself with the process. Proper preparation and attention to detail will contribute to the success of this recipe.

1. Prepare the Chicken Breasts: Begin by prepping your chicken breasts. Place each chicken breast on a cutting board. If the chicken breasts are thick (often they are not uniformly thick), it’s important to pound them to an even thickness of about ½ inch using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy pan. Place the chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper to prevent splattering and tearing. Gently pound the thicker parts of the breast until it’s uniformly thin. This step is crucial for even cooking and ensures the chicken cooks through quickly in the air fryer without drying out. Once pounded, season both sides of each chicken breast generously with salt and black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; this is your base layer of flavor.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with any optional add-ins you are using, such as chopped fresh herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes. Mix well with a fork or spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. If you’re using shredded cheese as an add-in, you can gently fold it into the cream cheese mixture at this stage.
3. Assemble the Roll-Ups: Now it’s time to assemble the magic. Take one seasoned chicken breast and lay it flat on your work surface. Spread an even layer of the prepared cream cheese mixture over the surface of the chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges to prevent the filling from squeezing out during rolling. Be generous with the cream cheese, but don’t overfill, as this can also cause leakage. Starting from one short end of the chicken breast, carefully roll it up tightly, like you would roll a jelly roll or a burrito. Secure the roll-up with a toothpick or two if necessary to keep it closed during cooking. Repeat this process with the remaining chicken breasts and cream cheese filling until all roll-ups are assembled.
4. Coat with Everything Bagel Seasoning: This is where the everything bagel magic happens! Pour the everything bagel seasoning onto a shallow plate or bowl. Lightly brush each chicken roll-up with olive oil or cooking spray. This helps the everything bagel seasoning adhere properly to the chicken. Roll each oiled chicken roll-up in the everything bagel seasoning, ensuring all sides are generously coated. Press the seasoning gently into the chicken to help it stick. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the seasoning – it’s what gives these roll-ups their signature flavor and crispy crust.
5. Preheat the Air Fryer (if necessary): Many air fryers benefit from preheating to ensure even cooking and crisping. If your air fryer manufacturer recommends preheating, preheat it to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes. Refer to your air fryer’s manual for specific preheating instructions. Preheating helps the air fryer reach the optimal temperature for cooking the chicken roll-ups right away.
6. Air Fry the Chicken Roll-Ups: Carefully place the seasoned chicken roll-ups in the preheated air fryer basket. Ensure you don’t overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary to allow for proper air circulation around each roll-up. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Arrange the roll-ups in a single layer, leaving a little space between each one. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your chicken roll-ups. To ensure even cooking, flip the roll-ups halfway through the cooking time, around the 7-minute mark. This helps them brown evenly on all sides.
7. Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork or toothpick. The most accurate way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a roll-up – it should register 165°F (74°C). The everything bagel seasoning should be nicely browned and crispy.
8. Rest and Serve: Once cooked through, carefully remove the Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Roll-Ups from the air fryer basket. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Remove any toothpicks if used. Serve immediately while warm and crispy. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired, for a pop of color.

Nutrition Facts

(Per serving, approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used)

• Servings: 2 (This recipe makes 2 large roll-ups, consider cutting each in half to serve 4 smaller portions)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-550 calories (depending on the size of the chicken breasts and amount of cream cheese used)

Detailed Breakdown (per serving, approximate):

• Protein: 45-55 grams
• Fat: 25-35 grams (primarily from cream cheese and olive oil)
  • Saturated Fat: 15-20 grams
• Cholesterol: 180-220 mg
• Sodium: 600-800 mg (depending on everything bagel seasoning and added salt)
• Carbohydrates: 5-8 grams
  • Fiber: 1-2 grams
  • Sugar: 2-3 grams

Important Notes:

• These nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used, as well as portion sizes.
• Using reduced-fat cream cheese can significantly reduce the fat and calorie content.
• Adding extra cheese or sauces will increase the calorie and fat content.
• This recipe is a good source of protein and can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes (includes chicken preparation, cream cheese mixing, and roll-up assembly)
• Cook Time: 12-15 minutes (in the air fryer)
• Total Time: Approximately 32-35 minutes

This recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner as it requires minimal active cooking time and comes together in under 35 minutes from start to finish. The majority of the time is spent in preparation, which can even be partially done ahead of time (see “Additional Tips” section).

How to Serve

These Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Roll-Ups are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Their delicious flavor profile pairs well with numerous side dishes and accompaniments, making them suitable for both casual family meals and more elevated gatherings. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:

• Classic Sides for a Balanced Meal:
  • Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, green beans, Brussels sprouts, carrots, or bell peppers are all excellent choices. Roasting or steaming brings out their natural sweetness and provides essential vitamins and fiber.
  • Side Salad: A fresh and vibrant green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the chicken roll-ups without being too heavy. Consider adding mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a lemon-herb vinaigrette.
  • Quinoa or Brown Rice: These whole grains offer a healthy and satisfying carbohydrate source to complete the meal. Quinoa is particularly rich in protein, while brown rice provides fiber and a nutty flavor.
• Sauces and Dips for Extra Flavor:
  • Honey Mustard: The sweet and tangy notes of honey mustard beautifully complement the savory everything bagel seasoning and creamy filling.
  • Ranch Dressing: A classic and crowd-pleasing choice, ranch dressing provides a cool and creamy contrast to the crispy chicken.
  • Creamy Dill Sauce: A dill-based sauce enhances the fresh herb notes and creaminess of the roll-ups. Combine Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, and garlic for a light and flavorful dip.
  • Spicy Mayo: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, spicy mayo made with sriracha or chili garlic sauce adds a flavorful kick.
• Serving Styles for Different Occasions:
  • Weeknight Family Dinner: Serve the roll-ups whole with a simple side of steamed broccoli and quinoa for a quick and healthy weeknight meal.
  • Lunch or Light Dinner: Cut the roll-ups in half or slices and serve them on top of a bed of mixed greens for a lighter and more elegant lunch or dinner option.
  • Appetizers or Party Food: Slice the roll-ups into smaller, bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. Serve with a variety of dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties or gatherings.
  • “Chicken Bagel Bites”: For a fun kid-friendly meal, serve the roll-ups alongside mini bagels or bagel chips for a playful “chicken bagel bites” theme.

Additional Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Roll-Ups

To ensure your Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Roll-Ups turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips and tricks learned from making this recipe countless times. These insights can elevate your cooking experience and guarantee delicious results.

1. Pound Chicken Evenly for Consistent Cooking: As emphasized in the instructions, pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness is paramount. This ensures that the chicken cooks through at the same rate and prevents some parts from being overcooked and dry while others are still undercooked. Uniform thickness also aids in rolling the chicken neatly and prevents the cream cheese filling from leaking out during cooking. Use a meat mallet or the flat bottom of a heavy pan and aim for a consistent ½ inch thickness across the entire breast.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer Basket: Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food to cook it evenly and create a crispy exterior. Overcrowding the basket hinders this air circulation, leading to steaming instead of crisping and unevenly cooked chicken. Cook the roll-ups in batches if necessary, ensuring there is space around each roll-up for the hot air to circulate properly. This will result in perfectly golden brown and crispy roll-ups every time.
3. Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Using softened cream cheese is essential for easy spreading and a smooth, creamy filling. If the cream cheese is too cold, it will be difficult to spread evenly and may create lumps in the filling. Allow the cream cheese to sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to an hour before starting preparation, or microwave it briefly (in 10-second intervals) until softened, being careful not to melt it. Properly softened cream cheese will mix smoothly with other ingredients and spread easily onto the chicken.
4. Secure Roll-Ups with Toothpicks (If Needed): While rolling the chicken tightly usually suffices to keep the roll-ups intact, toothpicks can provide extra security, especially if you are using larger chicken breasts or a generous amount of filling. Insert toothpicks diagonally through the roll-ups to hold them closed during cooking. Remember to remove the toothpicks before serving, and inform anyone eating the roll-ups to be aware of them. Toothpicks are particularly helpful if you plan to flip the roll-ups during air frying.
5. Experiment with Different Fillings and Flavors: The basic recipe is a fantastic starting point, but feel free to get creative and customize your roll-ups with different fillings and flavor combinations. Consider adding sautéed spinach and feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist, or diced jalapenos and cheddar cheese for a spicy kick. Sun-dried tomatoes and pesto cream cheese are another delicious option. Get adventurous and tailor the fillings to your personal preferences and dietary needs. You can also experiment with different seasonings beyond everything bagel seasoning, such as Italian seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or taco seasoning for entirely different flavor profiles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about making Air Fryer Everything Bagel Chicken Roll-Ups, along with helpful answers to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and successful.

Q1: Can I make these chicken roll-ups ahead of time?

A1: Yes, you can prepare the chicken roll-ups ahead of time, which makes them perfect for meal prepping or busy weeknights. You can assemble the roll-ups (up to the point of air frying) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to cook, simply air fry them as directed. However, for the best texture and crispiness, it’s recommended to air fry them shortly before serving. If you are preparing them significantly in advance, the everything bagel seasoning may soften slightly from the moisture of the chicken and cream cheese.

Q2: Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

A2: Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s crucial to ensure they are completely thawed before you begin preparing the recipe. Thawing chicken thoroughly is essential for food safety and even cooking. You can thaw chicken breasts in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave (following microwave manufacturer’s instructions). Do not attempt to air fry frozen chicken roll-ups, as they will cook unevenly and may not reach a safe internal temperature.

Q3: My chicken roll-ups are not getting crispy. What am I doing wrong?

A3: There are a few reasons why your chicken roll-ups might not be getting crispy in the air fryer. First, ensure you are not overcrowding the air fryer basket. Overcrowding restricts air circulation and can lead to steaming instead of crisping. Cook in batches if needed. Second, make sure your air fryer is preheated to the correct temperature. Preheating helps the food crisp up quickly. Third, you can try increasing the air fryer temperature slightly (by 10-15°F) for the last few minutes of cooking to enhance crispiness, but watch carefully to prevent burning the everything bagel seasoning. Finally, brushing the roll-ups with a little olive oil or cooking spray before coating them with everything bagel seasoning helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes browning and crisping.

Q4: Can I bake these in the oven instead of air frying?

A4: Yes, you can bake these chicken roll-ups in the oven if you don’t have an air fryer. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the prepared roll-ups on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Oven-baked roll-ups will be delicious, but they may not be as crispy as air-fried versions. You can broil them for the last minute or two to enhance browning and crispiness, but watch carefully to prevent burning.

Q5: Can I use different types of cheese for the filling?

A5: Absolutely! Cream cheese is the base of the filling in this recipe, but you can definitely incorporate other cheeses to customize the flavor and texture. Shredded cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese can be added to the cream cheese mixture or sprinkled on top before rolling up the chicken. Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your favorite flavor profile. You can also use flavored cream cheeses, such as chive and onion or garlic and herb cream cheese, to add another layer of flavor to the filling.

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