When your taste buds are craving something unique, orange chicken pizza rolls deliver an unforgettable fusion of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. This innovative recipe combines the beloved tang of orange chicken with the cheesy delight of pizza rolls, making it the perfect appetizer, snack, or even a fun dinner idea. Whether you’re hosting a party or satisfying a late-night craving, these pizza rolls are sure to impress.
Table of Contents
What Are Orange Chicken Pizza Rolls?
A Fusion of Two Favorites
Orange chicken pizza rolls bring together two culinary classics: the rich, tangy orange sauce of Chinese cuisine and the gooey, cheesy goodness of pizza rolls. This dish transforms these popular foods into bite-sized, crispy rolls that are bursting with flavor in every bite.
Key highlights of this recipe:
- Bite-sized, handheld snacks that are perfect for any occasion.
- A delicious blend of sweet and savory flavors.
- Easy to prepare with simple, accessible ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Irresistible Qualities of Orange Chicken Pizza Rolls
- Unique Flavor Profile: Sweet orange sauce complements the savory cheese and chicken filling perfectly.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for game nights, parties, or casual gatherings.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
- Kid-Friendly: A great way to introduce new flavors to picky eaters.
Ingredients for Orange Chicken Pizza Rolls
Main Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken breast or thighs.
- Orange Sauce: ½ cup orange marmalade, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes.
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
- Pizza Dough: 1 package of refrigerated pizza dough or homemade dough.
- Egg Wash: 1 egg, beaten, for sealing and brushing.
- Sesame Seeds (Optional): For garnish.
Seasonings and Extras
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
- Dipping sauce: Extra orange sauce or a creamy ranch dressing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare Ingredients: Cook and shred the chicken if not already prepared. Mix the orange sauce ingredients in a small saucepan and heat until slightly thickened.
Assembling the Pizza Rolls
- Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, approximately ¼-inch thick.
- Add Filling: Spread a thin layer of orange sauce over the dough. Sprinkle evenly with shredded chicken and cheese.
- Roll and Slice: Roll the dough tightly into a log. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch pieces.
Baking the Rolls
- Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the slices cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving with extra dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your orange chicken pizza rolls with:
- Extra Dipping Sauce: A side of orange sauce or spicy mayo.
- Side Salad: A fresh Asian-style slaw or garden salad.
- Drinks: Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or your favorite soda for a complete snack experience.
Tips for Perfect Orange Chicken Pizza Rolls
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can make the rolls difficult to seal.
- Use Cold Dough: Cold pizza dough is easier to handle and roll tightly.
- Customize Flavors: Add diced bell peppers, green onions, or pineapple for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Reheat Properly: Warm leftovers in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fiber | 2g |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)
FAQs About Orange Chicken Pizza Rolls
1. Can I use store-bought orange sauce?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, store-bought orange sauce works perfectly as a substitute.
2. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them. Bake fresh when you’re ready to serve.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
4. Can I freeze these pizza rolls?
Definitely. Freeze unbaked rolls, then bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure! Replace the chicken with cooked tofu, mushrooms, or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
Orange chicken pizza rolls are a creative and delectable way to elevate your snack game. Combining the best of tangy orange chicken and cheesy pizza, these rolls are perfect for any occasion. Easy to make, customizable, and utterly delicious, this recipe is one you’ll want to save and share. Try it out today, and don’t forget to let us know how your rolls turned out in the comments below!