The aroma of bubbling marinara sauce and melting cheese fills the kitchen, instantly transporting me to my favorite Italian trattoria. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls, a beautiful embrace of comfort food that’s deceptively easy to create. This dish not only elevates dinner with its vibrant flavor but also offers the kind of hearty satisfaction that fits perfectly for both sophisticated gatherings and cozy weeknight meals. Plus, it’s versatile—feel free to mix up the cheese fillings to suit your taste! Ready to impress your friends or indulge yourself? Let’s roll into this delicious culinary adventure together!
Why Are Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls Amazing?
Comforting, this recipe is the perfect answer to your dinner dilemmas, combining hearty chicken with a creamy, herby filling. Easy to customize, substitute different cheeses like feta for a delightful twist! Impressive presentation makes it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering. Quick to prepare, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in under an hour. Serve it alongside pasta or a fresh salad for a complete experience, much like my Savory Chicken Veggie Foil Packs or a classic Roasted Chicken Leek and Butternut Squash Bake. Crowd-pleasing, your friends and family will rave about this dish long after the last bite!
Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls Ingredients
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For the Chicken Rolls
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Choose even sizes for uniform cooking.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – Provides creaminess and mild flavor, perfect as a filling base.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty depth; substitution options include Romano or Pecorino for a sharper taste.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil – Imparts a sweet, aromatic note typical of Italian cuisine.
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Offers freshness and enhances the dish’s vibrant color.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme – Contributes earthy, slightly minty tones to the filling.
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest – Adds a citrus lift that balances the richness of the cheeses.
• Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for enhancing flavor profiles in your herbed ricotta stuffed chicken rolls. -
For Cooking and Topping
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used for searing the rolls to create a beautiful golden crust.
• 1 cup marinara sauce – Serves as a comforting blanket for the rolls, adding a touch of acidity.
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts into gooey goodness, enhancing both texture and flavor. -
For Assembly
• Toothpicks – Necessary for securing the rolls during cooking, ensuring every bite stays intact.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms up, grab a baking dish and lightly grease it with a drizzle of olive oil or non-stick spray. This will help ensure your Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls don’t stick and maintain a beautiful golden crust as they bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Breasts
Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch. This step is crucial for ensuring uniform cooking and tenderness, so take your time to achieve that perfect thickness without tearing the meat.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of ricotta cheese, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme, and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until the filling is smooth and well-blended, creating a delightful herby flavor that will perfectly complement the chicken.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Spread a generous layer of the herbed ricotta mixture over each pounded chicken breast, leaving a small border around the edges. This ensures that the filling doesn’t ooze out when you roll them up. Carefully roll each chicken breast tightly from one end to the other, making sure the filling stays inside, and then secure the rolls with toothpicks.
Step 5: Sear the Chicken Rolls
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken rolls to the skillet, seam side down. Sear them for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides. This step adds a beautiful color and depth of flavor to your Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls that will make them even more irresistible.
Step 6: Bake with Marinara
After searing, transfer the chicken rolls to the prepared baking dish. Pour 1 cup of marinara sauce over the rolls, making sure they are well-coated. This will infuse the chicken with moisture and rich flavor, creating a lovely pairing with the cheesy filling.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the marinara-covered chicken rolls. This will melt beautifully and create a bubbly, cheesy topping. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once baked, remove the Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken. Carefully remove the toothpicks, slice the rolls, and serve, enjoying the harmony of flavors in every bite.
How to Store and Freeze Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the rolls before baking. Wrap each tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, lasting up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls a few hours in advance and keep them in the fridge before baking, just remember to adjust your cooking time accordingly!
Make Ahead Options
These Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep! You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance, storing them tightly covered in the refrigerator. To prepare, simply follow the rolling and searing steps, then refrigerate them in a baking dish under marinara sauce. When you’re ready to bake, allow the chicken to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort right at your dinner table! Just remember, keeping the filling visible before cooking prevents any moisture loss and keeps the taste just as delicious.
Helpful Tricks for Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls
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Uniform Thickness: Make sure to pound the chicken breasts evenly to about 1/4 inch. This ensures they cook uniformly, giving you tender and juicy Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls.
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Seal it Tight: Roll the chicken tightly and secure with toothpicks. This prevents any delicious filling from leaking out during cooking and keeps each bite flavorful.
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Searing Secrets: Don’t rush the searing process! A good 5 minutes over medium-high heat creates a lovely golden crust and enhances flavor, making your rolls even more irresistible.
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Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This guarantees not just safety but also that your rolls are perfectly juicy.
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Customize Filling: Don’t be shy to experiment with different cheeses in your filling. Adding feta can give a tangy twist to your Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls, tailoring it to your taste!
Variations & Substitutions for Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls
Feel free to let your creativity shine by personalizing this dish to match your tastes and dietary needs!
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Cheese Swap: Use feta or goat cheese instead of ricotta for a tangier flavor profile that adds a delightful twist to the rolls.
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Herb Blend: Replace basil and thyme with your favorite Italian seasoning or oregano, introducing a new aromatic note that’s sure to please.
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Vegetable Infusion: Incorporate spinach or grated zucchini into the ricotta filling for a burst of color, nutrition, and extra moisture, perfect for a veggie boost!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for an exciting heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheeses.
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Nutty Crunch: Mix in a tablespoon of pine nuts or toasted walnuts with the ricotta filling for added texture and a satisfying crunch.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use almond flour as a binding agent instead of breadcrumbs if you’re looking for a gluten-free option to enrich your filling.
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Sauce Variations: Swap out the marinara for a creamy Alfredo or a pesto sauce for a rich, flavorful twist that will make your taste buds dance.
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Citrus Zest: Enhance the lemon flavor with a sprinkle of orange zest for a sweet, citrusy brightness that wonderfully complements the savory filling.
For more delightful twists on chicken, consider trying my Cajun White Chicken Chili for an extra kick or the comforting Pretzel Chicken with Mustard Cheddar Sauce that brings a whole new dimension to your dinner table.
What to Serve with Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls
The delightful combination of flavors in these chicken rolls invites a symphony of sides to complete your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Perfectly crusty and buttery, it’s ideal for mopping up any leftover marinara sauce and enhances the Italian theme.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A bright and crunchy salad with a zesty vinaigrette refreshes the palate, balancing the richness of the chicken.
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Creamy Risotto: A luxurious, creamy risotto adds a comforting, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the savory stuffed chicken.
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Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies bring sweetness and a hint of caramelization, providing a delightful contrast to the herbed filling.
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Pasta Primavera: Light pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables and olive oil complements the rolls’ flavors, creating a well-rounded meal.
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Sangiovese Wine: This Italian red wine, with its bold acidity, enhances the dish’s flavors and completes your dining experience beautifully.
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Tiramisu: A classic Italian dessert, its coffee flavors and creamy texture offer a sweet end to the meal that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right chicken breasts for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are of even size. This will help them cook uniformly and remain tender throughout. Avoid any that have dark spots or are too thin, as they might dry out during cooking.
What’s the best way to store leftover Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls?
After enjoying your delicious rolls, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you notice they’re starting to dry out, add a dash of marinara sauce before storing to keep them moist.
Can I freeze the stuffed chicken rolls? How?
Yes, you can definitely freeze them! It’s best to wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. They’ll last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as usual!
What if my chicken rolls are leaking filling during cooking?
Not to worry! If they’re leaking, that often means they weren’t tightly rolled or secured with toothpicks. Next time, make sure to roll them tightly and securely fasten them. If it happens again, just use a spoon to scoop up the filling and place it back inside the roll during the last few minutes of baking.
Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Certainly! You can assemble the Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, just be sure to increase the cooking time a bit to ensure they heat through properly. Enjoy the convenience of preparing your meal in advance!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re cooking for guests with allergies, be aware that ricotta and Parmesan cheese contain dairy. You can try using dairy-free cheese alternatives for a similar taste and texture. Always consult with anyone you’re serving to ensure the dish meets their dietary requirements.
Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls for Cozy Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
- Place each chicken breast between sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness of about 1/4 inch.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, parsley, thyme, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper, and mix until smooth.
- Spread herbed ricotta mixture over each pounded chicken breast, leaving a small border. Roll each breast tightly and secure with toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken rolls seam side down and sear for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken rolls to the baking dish and pour marinara sauce over them, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the rolls and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Once baked, let the rolls rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks, slice, and serve.
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