Crispy Cheese and Bacon Filled Chicken Rolls — A Perfect Blend of Flavour and Crunch

Author: Abul Kashem | Category: Recipes, Food Service | Published: October 2025

What is Crispy Cheese and Bacon Filled Chicken Roll?

Crispy cheese and bacon filled chicken rolls are a mouthwatering dish made by flattening chicken breast fillets, stuffing them with melted cheese and crispy bacon, then coating them with breadcrumbs and deep-frying or baking until golden and crunchy. It’s a fusion of creamy, smoky, and savory flavors — a dish that perfectly balances protein, dairy, and texture. Each bite delivers the juiciness of chicken, the saltiness of bacon, and the rich melt of cheese, wrapped in a crisp coating.

This dish is very popular in continental and modern fusion cuisines and often served in hotels, restaurants, and even catering events. Whether served as a snack, main course, or part of a buffet, crispy chicken rolls always attract diners with their delicious aroma and satisfying crunch.

Ingredients and Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 4 slices of smoked bacon
• 4 slices of mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 beaten eggs
• 1½ cups breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• Oil for deep frying (or olive oil for baking)

Preparation Steps

1. Step 1: Prepare the chicken — Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, butterfly them open and flatten with a meat mallet or rolling pin between two sheets of cling film.
2. Step 2: Season and fill — Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika over both sides of the chicken. Place a slice of bacon and cheese in the center of each chicken piece.
3. Step 3: Roll and seal — Roll up the chicken tightly and secure the edges with toothpicks to prevent cheese from leaking out during cooking.
4. Step 4: Coat the rolls — Dredge each roll in flour, dip into beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more.
5. Step 5: Fry or bake —
   • Frying: Heat oil to 170°C and fry until golden brown (6–8 minutes).
   • Baking: Brush with olive oil and bake at 200°C for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway.
6. Step 6: Rest and serve — Let the rolls rest for 5 minutes before slicing diagonally to reveal the melted cheese filling.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

This dish provides an excellent source of protein and energy. The cheese offers calcium and flavor depth, while bacon contributes smokiness and extra fat. If you bake instead of deep-frying, you can reduce the fat content by nearly 30%.

Variations and Culinary Types

Crispy chicken rolls can vary widely across cuisines. Below are some popular variations found globally:

• Italian Style: Filled with mozzarella, basil, and sundried tomatoes, then baked with marinara sauce.
• American Style: Deep-fried with cheddar and bacon, served with BBQ or ranch dip.
• Asian Fusion: Includes sweet chili sauce, spring onion, and sesame seeds, often served with fried rice.
• French Style (Cordon Bleu): Similar concept but uses ham and Swiss cheese, then pan-fried or baked.
• Middle Eastern Style: May include cream cheese, herbs, and a touch of za’atar for a fragrant twist.

Each version highlights how versatile chicken rolls can be — adapting to regional spices, cheese types, and cooking techniques. In fine dining, it’s often plated with mashed potatoes, grilled vegetables, or butter rice.

Uses in Hotel and Restaurant Menus

Crispy cheese and bacon chicken rolls are a versatile menu item suitable for:

• À la carte menu: Served as a main dish with sides like sautéed vegetables, mashed potato, or butter rice.
• Buffet menu: Pre-sliced rolls make an elegant presentation on hotel buffets, perfect for lunch or dinner service.
• Room service menu: Ideal as a comfort dish for guests looking for a crispy, indulgent meal.
• Banquet or event menu: Served as mini chicken roll bites with dipping sauce for cocktail receptions.

Many 4- and 5-star hotels use such dishes to enrich their Western or Continental menu sections. The preparation can be done ahead of service, which helps in consistent quality and easy plating during rush hours.

Best Meal Time to Serve

• Breakfast: Not common for traditional breakfast, but mini rolls can be served in breakfast buffets in international hotels.
• Lunch: Perfect as a light but satisfying main course with salad or rice.
• Dinner: Works beautifully as a main dish in fine dining or casual restaurants.
• Snacks: Bite-sized versions can be great appetizers for parties or café menus.

For foodservice operators, portion size can be adjusted to match meal timing — full roll for dinner or lunch, and smaller versions for snacks or events.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Presentation plays a big role in the appeal of crispy chicken rolls. Here are some creative plating ideas:

• Serve sliced diagonally to showcase the melted cheese center.
• Drizzle honey mustard or BBQ sauce across the plate.
• Accompany with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
• Sprinkle microgreens or fresh parsley for color contrast.
• Use wooden boards or slate plates for a rustic presentation style.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Chicken Rolls

• Use thin, evenly pounded chicken for uniform cooking.
• Chill the rolled chicken for 20 minutes before frying to help retain shape.
• Double-coat in breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
• Allow cooked rolls to rest before cutting to prevent cheese leakage.
• Pair with dips like garlic aioli, ranch, or spicy mayo for enhanced flavor.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake at 180°C for 10–12 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

Why Chefs Love This Dish

Professional chefs prefer crispy cheese and bacon filled chicken rolls because of their simplicity, adaptability, and high customer satisfaction. They can be pre-prepared, stored frozen, and fried or baked on order — making them ideal for hotels, restaurants, and catering services.

Moreover, the combination of familiar ingredients — chicken, cheese, and bacon — appeals to both local and international guests. It’s a great “comfort food” that still fits into gourmet presentations.

Final Thoughts

Crispy cheese and bacon filled chicken rolls are more than just a dish — they’re an experience. The crackling outer layer, the molten cheese, and the smoky bacon together create a sensory delight that fits perfectly in any dining setting. Whether served in a five-star hotel, a casual restaurant, or your own kitchen, this recipe brings out the universal love for crispy, cheesy indulgence.

Try this recipe today and see why it remains a timeless favorite among food lovers and professional chefs alike.

Written by Abul Kashem — Food & Beverage Professional, Restaurant Consultant, and Hospitality Trainer. For more articles, visit restaurantconsultant.xyz