Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls
If you’re looking for a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive, let me introduce you to my favorite: Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls! This recipe is all about tender chicken breasts wrapped around a creamy, herb-infused ricotta filling that dances with flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special gathering with family and friends, these rolls are sure to steal the show.
What makes this dish truly special is how versatile it is. You can customize it to suit your taste and dietary needs while still delivering a beautiful presentation. Plus, each bite is packed with wholesome ingredients like fresh spinach and aromatic herbs, making it both delicious and nutritious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you’ll have this delightful meal on the table in no time.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves cheesy goodness! These Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare these rolls in advance and simply bake them before serving, making meal planning a breeze.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of ricotta and herbs creates a rich filling that elevates the chicken to new heights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For these Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls, you won’t need anything fancy—just good quality items that come together beautifully.
For the Chicken Rolls
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Variations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up according to your preferences or what you have on hand.
- Swap the protein: If chicken isn’t your thing, try using turkey or even eggplant slices for a vegetarian twist!
- Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or feta for a unique flavor profile.
- Add extra veggies: Toss in some roasted red peppers or mushrooms into the filling for an added layer of texture and taste.
- Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs to give the filling a little kick!
How to Make Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
Start by combining ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, basil, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix everything until well combined. This step is crucial because it creates that rich flavor you’re looking for in each bite!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Next, take your boneless chicken breasts and carefully butterfly them. This means cutting them almost in half but leaving one side intact. It helps create a pocket for our delicious filling. Season both sides with salt and pepper; this adds essential flavor right from the start.
Step 3: Stuff the Chicken
Take a generous spoonful of your herbed ricotta mixture and place it inside each chicken breast pocket. Fold over the chicken securely to encase all that cheesy goodness. Use toothpicks if needed to keep everything together while cooking.
Step 4: Sear the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add stuffed chicken breasts and sear until golden brown on both sides—about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in moisture and gives your rolls a lovely color!
Step 5: Bake in Marinara Sauce
Pour marinara sauce into an oven-safe dish. Nestle your seared chicken rolls into the sauce and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until fully cooked through. Baking not only ensures they’re safe to eat but also infuses those robust flavors from the sauce into every bite.
Now you’re ready to serve up these delightful Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls! Enjoy them with your favorite side dishes or simply on their own; either way, they’re bound to impress everyone at your table!
Pro Tips for Making Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls
Making Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!
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Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to simplify the rolling process. They cook evenly and are easier to stuff than bone-in pieces.
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Prep Your Ingredients Ahead: Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go can streamline your cooking process. This way, you can focus on the fun of assembling and rolling!
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Don’t Overstuff: While it’s tempting to pack in as much filling as possible, leaving a little space helps prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking. This ensures that each roll is beautifully presented.
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Sear Before Baking: A quick sear in a hot pan adds flavor through caramelization and helps lock in moisture. This step gives the chicken a lovely golden crust!
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Let It Rest: After baking, allow your chicken rolls to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite more succulent.
How to Serve Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls
Presenting your Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls beautifully can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine on the table!
Garnishes
- Fresh Basil or Parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh herbs not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile of the dish.
- Lemon Zest: A light grating of lemon zest right before serving brings brightness and a refreshing touch that complements the creamy ricotta filling.
Side Dishes
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting base that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the chicken rolls.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus spears add a pop of color and crunch, making for an elegant side that balances the dish.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a nutritious and light contrast to the heavier stuffed chicken.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots bring out natural sweetness and add variety to your plate.
With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, your Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls will not only taste incredible but look stunning too! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends.
Make Ahead and Storage
Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are not only a delightful dish to serve, but they’re also fantastic for meal prep! Making these rolls in advance means you can have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to go, saving time on busy weeknights.
Storing Leftovers
- Place any leftover stuffed chicken rolls in an airtight container.
- Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing
- If you want to freeze your Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls, wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place the wrapped rolls in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- To reheat, remove the rolls from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls that might help you out!
Can I use other types of cheese in Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls?
Absolutely! While ricotta is delicious, you can also experiment with cream cheese or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just ensure they complement the herbs you choose.
How do I make sure my Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls stay moist?
To keep your chicken rolls juicy, avoid overcooking them. Using a meat thermometer can help; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Additionally, covering them while baking helps retain moisture.
Can I prepare Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls a day in advance and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. This makes them perfect for meal prep or entertaining guests.
What herbs work best with Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls?
Popular choices include basil, parsley, thyme, and oregano. Feel free to mix and match based on your preference or what you have on hand!
Final Thoughts
I hope you find joy in creating these Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls as much as I do! This recipe is special not just because it’s delicious but also because it brings family and friends together around the dining table. Enjoy every step of the cooking process and those delightful moments shared over a home-cooked meal. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—happy cooking!
Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Indulge in the comforting and flavorful Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls! This delightful dish features tender chicken breasts enveloping a creamy, herb-infused ricotta filling, creating a memorable meal for any occasion. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, these rolls are not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. Packed with wholesome ingredients like fresh spinach and aromatic herbs, they promise a delicious and nutritious experience that will impress family and friends alike. Serve them with marinara sauce for added richness and enjoy every bite of this gourmet creation!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, Parmesan cheese, basil, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper until well mixed.
- Butterfly the chicken breasts by cutting them almost in half but keeping one side intact; season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon the herbed ricotta mixture into each chicken breast pocket and fold securely; use toothpicks if necessary.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; sear the stuffed chicken for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Pour marinara sauce into an oven-safe dish; place the seared chicken rolls in the sauce and bake for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken roll (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
