Description
Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls feature tender boneless chicken breasts filled with a flavorful mixture of ricotta, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, then seared and baked in marinara sauce for a delicious, protein-packed meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine (for securing rolls)
Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket without cutting through the other side. Alternatively, pound the chicken flat between two sheets of plastic wrap for even cooking.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, basil, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Stuff the Chicken: Spoon a generous amount of the herbed ricotta mixture into each chicken breast pocket. Avoid overfilling to prevent spills. Secure the openings using toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the stuffed chicken rolls and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour marinara sauce over the seared chicken rolls, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if desired, and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Allow the chicken rolls to rest for a few minutes before removing toothpicks or twine. Serve drizzled with marinara sauce and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. These rolls pair excellently with pasta, a fresh salad, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly thickened for uniform cooking.
- Use fresh herbs to enhance flavor, but dried can substitute in a pinch.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee doneness.
- The crushed red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted based on spice preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a gluten-free version, confirm marinara sauce ingredients or make your own.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken roll (about 1 chicken breast)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 46 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
Keywords: Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken, Chicken Rolls, Italian Chicken Recipe, Stuffed Chicken Breast, Healthy Chicken Dinner
