Ingredients
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup marinara sauce (for serving)
Instructions
Creating Flavorful Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls is a breeze. Follow these steps for best results:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) while you prepare the chicken and filling.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, basil, parsley, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
3. Prepare the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap. Gently pound the chicken with a meat mallet or rolling pin until it is about ½ inch thick.
4. Fill the Chicken: Take a generous scoop of the ricotta mixture and spread it evenly over each chicken breast, leaving a little space at the edges.
5. Roll the Chicken: Starting from one edge, roll the chicken tightly around the filling. Secure with toothpicks or tie with kitchen twine to hold the filling in place.
6. Sear the Rolls: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Place the chicken rolls seam-side down and sear for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Flip and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
7. Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
8. Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken is baking, heat the marinara sauce in a small saucepan until warmed through.
9. Serve the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the toothpicks or twine from the chicken rolls. Slice if desired, and serve with marinara sauce spooned over the top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: Include cooked, crumbled sausage or bacon in the filling for a heartier dish.