Cheesy Veggie-Stuffed Chicken Roll-Ups

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup finely diced zucchini
• 1/2 cup finely shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine
• Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. Place a chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until about 1/4 inch thick. Repeat with remaining breasts.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced red bell pepper, zucchini, and shredded carrots. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened but still vibrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Combine the sautéed vegetables with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese in a mixing bowl. Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Spread an even layer of the veggie-cheese mixture over each flattened chicken breast, leaving about a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Carefully roll up each chicken breast, securing the edges with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling inside.
7. Place the roll-ups seam side down in the prepared baking dish. Lightly season the outside with salt and pepper.
8. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C) and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
9. Remove toothpicks or twine before serving. Slice roll-ups if desired and serve warm with a side of steamed veggies or rice.

Chef tips

• For easier rolling, pat chicken breasts dry and chill them for 15 minutes before pounding.
• Substitute mozzarella with cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor.
• If vegetables are too wet after sautéing, gently squeeze out excess moisture to prevent soggy chicken.
• Use kitchen twine instead of toothpicks for a stronger hold, but remember to remove before eating.
• To make this gluten-free, ensure all seasonings and cheese are certified gluten-free.