Costco Copycat Chicken & Swiss Roll-Ups: The Ultimate Homemade Party Appetizer
There’s something undeniably appealing about Costco’s roasted chicken & Swiss roll-ups platter. They’re neatly sliced, perfectly portioned, and they magically stay together without a single toothpick. This delightful presentation and the promise of a delicious bite often make them a go-to for parties, potlucks, or a quick, elegant lunch. But what if you could replicate that magic at home, with even fresher ingredients, at a fraction of the cost, and with a flavor that truly outshines the store-bought version? This copycat recipe for chicken or turkey and Swiss roll-ups will show you how to do just that, creating irresistible bites held together by a rich, homemade cranberry cream cheese spread that tastes so much better than anything you’ll find pre-made.
My quest to replicate these popular Costco roll-ups began after enjoying them from the store. The concept seemed simple enough – just a handful of ingredients rolled into a tortilla. However, achieving that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and stability is key. The secret, I discovered, lies in the creamy, tangy spread that not only binds all the components together but also adds a unique and vibrant flavor profile. While you can certainly use turkey if you prefer, the roasted chicken and Swiss combination offers a classic taste that everyone loves. This recipe is designed to be straightforward, efficient, and incredibly rewarding, proving that homemade is almost always better.
Why Make Your Own Costco-Style Roll-Ups?
Beyond the sheer satisfaction of cooking from scratch, there are several compelling reasons to whip up these roll-ups in your own kitchen:
- Cost-Effectiveness: A platter of roll-ups at Costco can set you back around $9.99 for what often amounts to only about three full rolls, sliced. With a single pack of tortillas and a few staple ingredients, you can easily make ten or more rolls, yielding significantly more servings for the same price or even less. This makes homemade roll-ups an incredibly economical choice for feeding a crowd.
- Superior Flavor: The star of this recipe is the homemade cranberry cream cheese spread. Store-bought versions often fall flat, lacking the fresh, vibrant tang and sweetness that our quick, jellied-like cranberry sauce provides. Made from Craisins (dried cranberries), this sauce comes together in minutes without any thickeners or pressure cookers, delivering a restaurant-quality taste that perfectly complements the savory meat and cheese.
- Quality Control and Customization: When you make your own, you control the quality of every ingredient. Choose your favorite brand of roasted chicken, high-quality Swiss cheese, and the freshest produce. You also have the freedom to customize. Want more lettuce? Less tomato? A different type of cheese? The power is in your hands!
- Perfectly Stays Together: The rich, thick cranberry cream cheese spread isn’t just for flavor; it’s the magical adhesive that ensures your roll-ups hold their shape beautifully. Say goodbye to flimsy roll-ups that unravel and the need for unsightly toothpicks. These rolls stay intact, making them easy to serve and enjoy.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing school lunches, or simply looking for a delicious and easy snack, these homemade roll-ups are a fantastic choice. They’re substantial enough to satisfy, yet light enough not to spoil an appetite, and they always disappear quickly!
Essential Ingredients for Your Homemade Roll-Ups
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a truly impressive dish. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some tips for choosing the best components:
Main Components:
- Large Tortillas or Lavash Bread: Use soft, pliable tortillas (flour is best) or lavash bread for easy rolling. Larger sizes mean more substantial roll-ups.
- Thickly Sliced Turkey Breast or Rotisserie Chicken Breast: While the original Costco version uses roasted chicken, thinly sliced turkey breast works wonderfully too. Opt for good quality, moist slices. Folding them in half adds volume and ensures a good bite.
- Swiss Cheese Slices: Swiss cheese provides a classic, slightly nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the meat. Fold the slices in half for better distribution and a thicker layer.
- Artisan Romaine Lettuce: Fresh, crisp lettuce adds a refreshing crunch and a pop of color. Artisan romaine is often smaller and easier to manage within the roll.
- Tomatoes: Sliced and halved tomatoes add a juicy, acidic counterpoint to the richness of the cheese and spread.
The Flavorful Spread:
This is where the magic happens! The homemade cranberry cream cheese spread is what elevates these roll-ups from good to extraordinary.
- Cream Cheese: An 8oz package of softened cream cheese forms the base. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing and spreading.
- Jellied Cranberry Sauce: This is the secret ingredient! You can make a super quick, jellied-like cranberry sauce from Craisins (dried cranberries) right at home in about 5 minutes. This fresh, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce is far superior to any canned or jarred variety you’ll find at the store, adding a bright flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream cheese and complements the savory meat. Here’s a simple recipe for homemade cranberry sauce.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Costco-Style Roll-Ups
Making these roll-ups is a breeze, especially once you get the hang of the assembly. Follow these steps for perfect results every time:
Preparing the Cranberry Cream Cheese Spread:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the jellied cranberry sauce. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined. This spread should be thick enough to hold its shape but easy to spread. If your cream cheese isn’t soft enough, it can be lumpy and hard to work with, so plan ahead and let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
Assembling the Roll-Ups:
- Spread the Foundation: Take one large tortilla or a piece of lavash bread. Evenly spread about 2 tablespoons of the cranberry cream cheese mixture over the entire surface, extending it all the way to the edges. This edge-to-edge coverage is crucial for ensuring the roll-ups seal properly and don’t unravel.
- Layer the Greens: Place two pieces of romaine lettuce leaves slightly off-center on the tortilla, leaving enough space at one end to begin your roll.
- Add the Hearty Fillings: Top the lettuce with two slices of your chosen meat (chicken or turkey), folded in half for thickness and to prevent them from sliding. Next, add two slices of Swiss cheese, also folded in halves, on top of the meat.
- Finish with Freshness: Finally, arrange about three tomato halves over the cheese. Don’t overfill, as this will make rolling difficult.
Rolling and Chilling for Perfection:
- Roll Tightly: Carefully fold the bottom edge of the tortilla over the fillings. Press down gently and roll the tortilla as tightly as possible, working your way to the top edge. A tight roll is crucial for stability and a neat appearance when sliced.
- Chill for Firmness: Once rolled, place each tortilla seam-side down on a plate or tray. Refrigerate the rolls for at least a few hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling allows the cream cheese spread to firm up, making the roll-ups much easier to slice cleanly without squishing or falling apart.
- Slice and Serve: Before serving, use a sharp knife to cut each chilled roll into 8 equal pieces. A serrated knife can also work well for a clean cut. Arrange them on a platter and enjoy!
Tips for Flawless Roll-Ups Every Time
- Softened Cream Cheese is Key: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This makes it incredibly easy to blend with the cranberry sauce and spread smoothly onto the tortillas.
- Even Spread: Distribute the cream cheese mixture evenly to the edges of the tortilla. This acts as the “glue” and ensures every bite has flavor and the roll stays together.
- Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to load up on fillings, too much will make the roll-ups difficult to roll tightly and prone to bursting. Stick to the recommended quantities.
- Roll Tightly: This cannot be stressed enough! A snug roll creates firm, compact slices that hold their shape.
- Generous Chilling Time: Do not skip the chilling step. It’s essential for the cream cheese to firm up, making slicing effortless and preventing the roll-ups from becoming a messy pile.
- Sharp Knife: Use a very sharp chef’s knife or a serrated knife for clean cuts. If the knife is dull, it will squish the roll-ups. Wipe the blade clean between cuts if necessary to prevent stickiness.
Creative Variations and Serving Suggestions
While the classic chicken/turkey and Swiss with cranberry cream cheese is a winner, don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to suit different tastes or occasions:
Meat & Cheese Swaps:
- Different Meats: Try thinly sliced ham, roast beef, or even vegetarian options like roasted bell peppers or hummus.
- Alternative Cheeses: Provolone, cheddar, havarti, or a smoked gouda can all add unique flavor profiles.
Veggie Additions:
- Finely diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, spinach leaves, or thinly sliced cucumbers can add extra crunch and nutrition.
Different Spreads:
- For a spicier kick, mix a little sriracha or hot sauce into the cream cheese.
- For a savory option, omit the cranberry and mix in fresh herbs like chives or dill, or a bit of garlic powder.
Serving Ideas:
These roll-ups are incredibly versatile. They make fantastic:
- Party Appetizers: Arrange them artfully on a platter for an impressive spread.
- Lunchbox Fillers: Pack them for a delicious and easy school or work lunch.
- Picnic Food: They travel well and are perfect for outdoor dining.
- Snacks: A satisfying bite anytime you’re feeling peckish.
Making Ahead and Storage
These roll-ups are an ideal make-ahead appetizer! You can assemble the full rolls up to 24 hours in advance and keep them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. Slice them just before serving for the freshest look. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. They are best enjoyed chilled.
With this recipe, you’re not just making roll-ups; you’re crafting a delicious, cost-effective, and customizable appetizer that will impress your guests and delight your family. Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a Costco-quality treat right in your own kitchen!
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Roll Ups Recipe (Costco Copycat)
Ingredients
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6 large tortillas or lavash bread
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12 thickly sliced turkey breast or rotisserie chicken breast slices folded in half
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12 slices Swiss cheese folded in halves
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1 small head of artisan romaine lettuce
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2 tomatoes sliced & halved
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For the Cream Cheese Spread:
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1 8oz pkg cream cheese, softened
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4 TBSP jellied cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
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In a bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the jellied cranberry sauce until smooth. Spread 2 TBSP of this cranberry cream cheese spread onto each tortilla, ensuring it reaches the edges. Place 2 pieces of romaine lettuce onto the center, then top with 2 meat slices (folded in half), 2 slices of Swiss cheese (folded in halves), and 3 tomato halves.
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Roll the bottom edge of the tortilla over the toppings and roll tightly towards the top edge. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down on a tray. Refrigerate for at least a few hours, or ideally overnight, before serving. Once chilled, cut each roll into 8 equal pieces using a sharp knife.
