philadelphia cream cheese chicken roll ups

Philadelphia Cream Cheese Chicken Roll Ups: A Deliciously Simple Recipe

Philadelphia Cream Cheese Chicken Roll Ups are a popular and easy-to-make appetizer or light meal. These savory bites combine tender chicken with the creamy richness of Philadelphia cream cheese, often enhanced with other flavorful ingredients like bacon, vegetables, or herbs, all rolled up in tortillas and baked to golden perfection. This makes them a versatile dish perfect for parties, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner.

What are Philadelphia Cream Cheese Chicken Roll Ups?

Philadelphia Cream Cheese Chicken Roll Ups consist of cooked chicken blended with Philadelphia cream cheese and various other ingredients. This mixture is then spread onto tortillas, which are tightly rolled and sliced into bite-sized portions. These rolls are often baked or pan-fried until the tortillas are crispy and the filling is warm and melty. The versatility of this recipe allows for numerous variations depending on your preferences.

Ingredients and Preparation

The core ingredients for Philadelphia Cream Cheese Chicken Roll Ups include:

• Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced. Rotisserie chicken is a convenient option.
• Philadelphia Cream Cheese: Softened for easy mixing.
• Tortillas: Flour tortillas are most commonly used, but whole wheat or gluten-free options work as well.
• Additional Ingredients (Optional): Bacon, cheddar cheese, diced vegetables (onions, bell peppers), jalapenos, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, herbs (chives, cilantro), or spices.

To prepare the roll ups:

1. Combine the cooked chicken, softened cream cheese, and any additional ingredients in a bowl.
2. Spread an even layer of the mixture onto each tortilla.
3. Tightly roll up each tortilla and slice into 1-inch pieces.
4. Place the roll ups on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through. Alternatively, you can pan-fry them in a skillet with a little oil until crispy on all sides.

For more information about cream cheese and its uses, you can check Cream cheese on Wikipedia.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

The beauty of Philadelphia Cream Cheese Chicken Roll Ups lies in their adaptability. Here are some popular variations:

• Buffalo Chicken Roll Ups: Add buffalo wing sauce and blue cheese crumbles to the chicken and cream cheese mixture.
• Bacon Ranch Chicken Roll Ups: Incorporate cooked bacon and ranch dressing into the filling.
• Southwest Chicken Roll Ups: Include black beans, corn, and a dash of chili powder for a Southwestern flavor.

Serve these roll ups warm as an appetizer, snack, or light meal. They pair well with a variety of dips, such as ranch dressing, sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.

FAQs About Philadelphia Cream Cheese Chicken Roll Ups

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the roll ups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze these?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled roll ups. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw them in the refrigerator before baking.

What kind of tortillas work best?

Flour tortillas are generally preferred for their pliability, but you can use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas as well.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese are all great additions or substitutes for some of the cream cheese.

How do I prevent the roll ups from getting soggy?

Make sure to bake them until the tortillas are crispy and golden brown. You can also lightly brush them with melted butter or oil before baking for extra crispness.

Summary

Philadelphia Cream Cheese Chicken Roll Ups are a delicious and convenient dish that’s easy to customize. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a satisfying light meal. Experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create your own signature version of this versatile recipe.