Introduction
Imagine tender chicken breasts, lovingly rolled and filled with a creamy, herby ricotta mixture, topped with warm marinara sauce, and baked to perfection. These Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls make for a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this dish is sure to deliver a rich and flavorful experience. Let’s dive into making this delightful recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for tying
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure that your chicken rolls bake evenly and come out perfectly cooked.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, fresh basil, fresh parsley, garlic powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are combined into a creamy filling.
- Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. With a gentle but firm hand, pound the chicken to an even thickness; this will help them cook uniformly and be easier to roll.
- Spread a generous amount of the ricotta filling over each chicken breast, making sure to cover it well.
- Carefully roll up each chicken breast, enclosing the rich filling, and secure them with toothpicks or kitchen twine to keep them intact during baking.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Gently add the chicken rolls to the skillet, searing them on all sides until they become a beautiful golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
- Once golden, pour the marinara sauce over the chicken rolls, allowing it to drizzle down and blanket them in a luscious sauce.
- Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked, and the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling by adding other ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor!
- To make the dish even easier, you can use a store-bought marinara sauce, or try your hand at making a homemade one for a personal touch.
- This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
Firstly, it’s essential to pound the chicken breasts evenly, as this ensures they cook at the same rate. Searing the chicken before baking adds a delicious depth of flavor and beautiful color. Lastly, resting the chicken after taking it out of the oven is a crucial step to keep it juicy and tender!
FAQ
Can I prepare these rolls in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the chicken rolls a day prior and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Just remember to adjust the baking time if they are chilled.
What can I serve with these stuffed chicken rolls?
These rolls go wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh side salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
Conclusion
These Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are not just a meal; they’re a celebration of flavors and textures that come together beautifully. They offer a delightful combination of herby, cheesy filling and tender chicken, all enveloped in a warm marinara sauce. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a dish to share with friends, this recipe will undoubtedly become a favorite. Happy cooking!