Description
Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls feature tender chicken breasts filled with a luscious ricotta and herb mixture, seared to golden perfection, then baked in marinara sauce for a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Olive oil for cooking
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine
Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Sauce
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken rolls.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, fresh basil, lemon zest, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Prepare Chicken Breasts: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch using a meat mallet or rolling pin to ensure even cooking and easier rolling.
- Stuff Chicken: Evenly spread the herbed ricotta mixture over the surface of each pounded chicken breast in a generous layer.
- Roll and Secure: Carefully roll up each chicken breast tightly around the filling, securing the ends with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep the filling intact during cooking.
- Sear Chicken Rolls: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken rolls seam-side down and sear all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This locks in juices and creates a caramelized crust.
- Add Sauce and Bake: Pour the marinara sauce over the seared chicken rolls in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rolls rest for a few minutes. Carefully remove toothpicks or twine, slice into rounds if desired, and serve warm with extra marinara sauce if preferred.
Notes
- Customize the herb mix by adding oregano, thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for different flavor profiles.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or pasta tossed with olive oil and garlic.
- For extra moisture and flavor, try braising the chicken rolls in chicken broth instead of marinara sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls, stuffed chicken breasts, ricotta chicken recipe, Italian chicken rolls, baked chicken rolls, creamy ricotta filling, family dinner recipe
