Description
Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are tender chicken breasts filled with a flavorful mixture of ricotta, Parmesan, spinach, and fresh herbs, then seared to golden perfection and baked in marinara sauce. This deliciously creamy and healthy dish makes for a perfect weeknight dinner or special occasion meal.
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 & 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 all the way through. Alternatively, pound the chicken flat between two sheets of plastic wrap to ensure even cooking.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, fresh basil, fresh parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well combined.
- Stuff the Chicken: Generously stuff each chicken breast pocket with the herbed ricotta mixture. Avoid overfilling to prevent the filling from spilling out. Secure the openings using toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the stuffed chicken rolls and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown to lock in the flavors.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour marinara sauce over the seared chicken and sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is fully cooked.
- Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before removing toothpicks or twine. Serve the rolls drizzled with the baked marinara sauce and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Pair with your favorite pasta, salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Notes
- Ensure not to overstuff the chicken breasts to prevent leaking during cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (75°C).
- Spinach can be lightly sautéed before mixing into the filling for a milder flavor and less moisture.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes inside the filling.
- Leftover chicken can be refrigerated and enjoyed within 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing, Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken roll
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: herbed ricotta, stuffed chicken, chicken rolls, Italian chicken recipe, baked chicken, healthy chicken dinner
