Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Roll-Ups

Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Roll-Ups: An Elegant Yet Simple Holiday Dish

These Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Roll-Ups combine the festive sweetness of cranberries with savory chicken in an impressive presentation that's surprisingly easy to master. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special dinners, this dish delivers a beautiful sweet-savory flavor profile that will have your guests thinking you spent hours in the kitchen. The good news? This elegant recipe requires just basic cooking skills and comes together in under an hour of active preparation time.

Golden-brown Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Roll-Ups showcasing the vibrant cranberry filling

Ready to Create This Stunning Dish?

Save this recipe for your next special occasion or holiday dinner!

Jump to Recipe

Why You'll Love These Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Roll-Ups

This recipe has become a holiday staple in many households for good reason. The combination of tender chicken wrapped around a sweet-tart cranberry filling creates a perfect balance of flavors that's both comforting and sophisticated.

What makes this dish truly special is how it transforms simple ingredients into something that looks and tastes gourmet. The vibrant red cranberry filling creates a beautiful color contrast when the chicken is sliced, making for an impressive presentation with minimal effort.

Perfect For:

• Holiday dinners and Christmas celebrations
• Dinner parties when you want to impress without stress
• Special family meals that feel elevated
• Make-ahead entertaining options
• Introducing new flavors to picky eaters

Ingredients You'll Need

This recipe combines simple, accessible ingredients to create a dish that tastes complex and sophisticated. The cranberry filling can be adapted based on what you have available – both fresh and dried cranberries work beautifully.

For the best results, use chicken breasts that are similar in size and thickness. This ensures even cooking and a consistent presentation when sliced. If your chicken breasts are very thick, you may want to butterfly them before pounding to ensure they roll easily.

For the Chicken:

• 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds total)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Kitchen twine or toothpicks for securing

For the Cranberry Filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped (or additional dried if unavailable)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pistachios (optional)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 tablespoon honey

Ingredient Tip:

For the most flavorful results, bring the cream cheese to room temperature before mixing the filling. This allows it to blend more smoothly with the other ingredients and makes spreading easier.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet or heavy pan.
2. Season both sides of each flattened chicken breast with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Set aside while preparing the filling.

Make the Cranberry Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, dried cranberries, chopped fresh cranberries, minced garlic, thyme leaves, rosemary, orange zest, and honey.
2. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. If using, fold in the chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.

Assemble and Cook the Roll-Ups:

1. Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the cranberry filling evenly over each flattened chicken breast, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.

2. Starting from the narrower end, tightly roll up each chicken breast, tucking in the sides as you go to prevent the filling from leaking out.

3. Secure each roll with kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep them closed during cooking.

4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Carefully place the chicken roll-ups in the hot skillet and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before removing the twine or toothpicks.
9. Slice each roll into medallions about 1-inch thick and arrange on a serving platter.

Temperature Tip:

Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the roll, avoiding the filling.

Sliced roll-ups reveal the beautiful spiral of cranberry filling

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Roll-Ups make a stunning centerpiece for any special meal. The vibrant colors and elegant presentation elevate your dining experience, while the sweet-savory flavor profile pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes.

Perfect Side Dishes:

• Garlic mashed potatoes or smashed potatoes
• Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon
• Wild rice pilaf with herbs
• Roasted root vegetables with maple glaze
• Fresh green salad with vinaigrette
• Steamed asparagus with lemon butter

Wine Pairings:

• Pinot Noir - Its bright acidity complements the cranberries
• Chardonnay - A buttery chardonnay balances the dish nicely
• Rosé - The fruity notes pair well with the sweet-savory profile
• Sparkling Cider - A non-alcoholic option that works beautifully

"The key to a memorable holiday meal is balancing familiar flavors with unexpected twists. These Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Roll-Ups offer that perfect balance – comforting and innovative at the same time."

— Home Cooking Enthusiast

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: These roll-ups freeze beautifully! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Make-Ahead Options:

• Prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and store in the refrigerator.
• Assemble the roll-ups the day before cooking, cover tightly, and refrigerate.
• Fully cook, cool, and refrigerate up to 2 days before serving. Reheat as directed below.

Reheating Tips:

Chicken can easily dry out when reheated, so follow these methods for the best results:

Reheating Method	Instructions	Best For
Oven	Cover with foil and heat at 325°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through	Maintaining moisture and texture
Microwave	Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second intervals	Quick reheating of single portions
Skillet	Add a splash of broth, cover, and warm over medium-low heat	Restoring exterior crispness

Food Safety Reminder:

Always reheat chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety. Use a meat thermometer to verify the temperature before serving reheated chicken.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. You can customize the flavors based on your preferences or what ingredients you have available. Here are some delicious variations to try:

Cheese Options:

• Goat cheese - For a tangy alternative to cream cheese
• Brie - Creates an ultra-creamy, luxurious filling
• Feta - Adds a salty contrast to the sweet cranberries
• Dairy-free cream cheese - For a lactose-free version

Fruit Variations:

• Dried cherries - A delicious alternative to cranberries
• Chopped apples - Adds a fresh crunch
• Dried apricots - Creates a more exotic flavor profile
• Pomegranate seeds - For a burst of juicy sweetness

Herb & Spice Twists:

• Sage & thyme - Classic holiday flavors
• Rosemary & orange zest - Bright and aromatic
• Tarragon & lemon - French-inspired variation
• Smoked paprika & garlic - For a Spanish flair

Nut Additions:

• Toasted walnuts - Traditional and crunchy
• Pistachios - Adds color and texture
• Pecans - Southern-inspired sweetness
• Pine nuts - Subtle, buttery flavor

Dietary Adaptations:

• Gluten-free - This recipe is naturally gluten-free
• Lower-carb - Use sugar-free dried cranberries
• Dairy-free - Substitute plant-based cream cheese
• Nut-free - Omit nuts or substitute with seeds

Experiment with different fillings to create your own signature version

Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Roll-Ups

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 4

4.9

User Rating

Ease

4.3

Flavor

4.9

Presentation

5.0

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Kitchen twine or toothpicks for securing

For the Cranberry Filling:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup fresh cranberries, chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pistachios (optional)
• Zest of 1 orange
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even 1/4-inch thickness using a meat mallet or heavy pan.
3. Season both sides of each flattened chicken breast with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, dried cranberries, chopped fresh cranberries (if using), minced garlic, thyme leaves, rosemary, orange zest, honey, and nuts (if using). Mix thoroughly.
5. Spread about 2-3 tablespoons of the cranberry filling evenly over each flattened chicken breast, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Starting from the narrower end, tightly roll up each chicken breast, tucking in the sides as you go.
7. Secure each roll with kitchen twine or toothpicks to keep them closed during cooking.
8. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
9. Carefully place the chicken roll-ups in the hot skillet and sear on all sides until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
10. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
11. Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before removing the twine or toothpicks.
12. Slice each roll into medallions about 1-inch thick and arrange on a serving platter.

Notes

• For make-ahead preparation, assemble the roll-ups, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, wrap individual cooked and cooled roll-ups tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• For best results when reheating, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through.

Print Recipe Save Recipe

Perfect Your Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Roll-Ups

These Cranberry Stuffed Chicken Roll-Ups are more than just a recipe – they're a way to create a memorable dining experience for your loved ones. The combination of tender chicken, tangy-sweet cranberries, and creamy cheese creates a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can adapt it to suit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. The beautiful presentation makes it perfect for special occasions, but it's simple enough to prepare for a weeknight dinner when you want something a little special.

Ready to Try More Delicious Recipes?

Subscribe to our newsletter for seasonal recipes, cooking tips, and more!

Get More Holiday Recipes