If you’re searching for a savory, comforting, and satisfying dish, these Potato Rolls with Chicken are exactly what you need. Combining creamy mashed potatoes with a flavorful chicken filling, these rolls are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with melted cheese for an irresistible finish. They are perfect for a hearty snack, an appetizer, or even as a light meal.
These potato rolls are versatile and can be customized with various fillings and flavors. Plus, they are an excellent way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and cooked chicken, reducing waste while creating a delightful treat. Whether you enjoy them with a dipping sauce or on their own, these rolls are sure to become a favorite in your home.
In this detailed guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know to create the perfect potato rolls, from preparing the dough and the chicken filling to baking them to golden perfection. You’ll also find useful tips, variations, and storage suggestions to ensure your potato rolls come out perfect every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Delicious: The combination of creamy potatoes and seasoned chicken offers a heartwarming flavor and texture.
- Versatile: Serve them as snacks, appetizers, or part of a main meal.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with different fillings and seasonings.
- Perfect for Leftovers: A creative and tasty way to use leftover mashed potatoes and cooked chicken.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Potato Dough
- 3 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
- 1 egg (helps bind the dough together)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for added crispiness and texture)
- ½ teaspoon salt (to enhance the flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for a subtle, warm flavor)
For the Chicken Filling
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken (preferably seasoned and cooked beforehand)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced (for a depth of flavor)
- ½ cup grated cheese (mozzarella or cheddar for creaminess)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for freshness and color)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (for a mild kick)
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky depth of flavor)
For Topping and Baking
- ½ cup grated cheese (for a crispy, golden topping)
- Olive oil or melted butter (for brushing the rolls, optional for extra crispiness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Mix in Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, followed by salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine and heat through for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Freshness and Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley and grated cheese. The residual heat will slightly melt the cheese, binding the filling together.
- Set Aside: Allow the filling to cool slightly while you prepare the potato dough.
Step 2: Prepare the Potato Dough
- Mash the Potatoes: Ensure the boiled potatoes are thoroughly mashed with no lumps for a smooth dough.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until the ingredients are well combined, and a soft dough forms.
- Adjust Consistency: If the dough is too sticky, add a little more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or water.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For easier handling, refrigerate the dough for 10-15 minutes. This step makes the dough firmer and less sticky.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
- Divide the Dough: Take a portion of the potato dough and shape it into a small ball. Flatten it into an oval or rectangular shape using your hands or a rolling pin.
- Add Filling: Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of the dough.
- Shape the Roll: Carefully roll the dough over the filling, sealing the edges by pinching them together. Roll gently to ensure an even cylindrical shape.
- Repeat the Process: Continue this process until all the dough and filling have been used.
Step 4: Prepare for Baking
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Arrange the Rolls: Place the prepared rolls on the tray, ensuring there’s enough space between each roll.
- Brush for Crispiness (Optional): Lightly brush each roll with olive oil or melted butter for a golden, crispy finish.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the grated cheese over the top of the rolls for a rich, cheesy crust.
Step 5: Bake the Rolls
- Bake the rolls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- For extra crispiness, broil the rolls for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like garlic aioli, sour cream, or marinara sauce.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Potato Rolls
- Smooth Dough: Ensure the potatoes are well-mashed and free of lumps for a smooth and pliable dough.
- Avoid Overfilling: Be careful not to overfill the rolls, as this can cause them to burst during baking.
- Seal Properly: Pinch the edges tightly to ensure the filling stays inside.
- Chill the Dough: If the dough is sticky, chilling it helps make it easier to shape.
- Extra Crispiness: Brushing the rolls with butter or oil enhances crispiness and flavor.
Substitutions & Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Incorporate cream cheese or sour cream into the potato dough for added richness.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.
- Herbal Notes: Experiment with herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and shape the rolls, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes them perfect for meal prep or entertaining.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store the baked rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven to maintain their crispiness.
3. Can I freeze the potato rolls?
Yes, freeze the unbaked rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
4. What dipping sauces go well with these rolls?
- Garlic aioli for a creamy, garlicky flavor.
- Sour cream and chive dip for freshness.
- Marinara sauce for a tangy tomato contrast.
- Honey mustard for a sweet and savory touch.
5. Can I fry the rolls instead of baking them?
Yes, for a crispier exterior, you can fry the rolls in hot oil until golden brown. Drain on paper towels before serving.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store cooled rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked rolls and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen when ready.
Conclusion
These Potato Rolls with Chicken are more than just a snack—they’re a delicious combination of textures and flavors that are perfect for any occasion. The creamy mashed potato dough wraps around a savory chicken filling, topped with melted cheese for an irresistible finish.
With simple, flexible ingredients and easy preparation steps, these rolls are perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions. Customize the filling, try different flavors, and enjoy this versatile dish that everyone will love.