Herbed Ricotta Chicken Rolls Delight

This herbed ricotta stuffed chicken rolls recipe delivers a cozy dinner that feels both elegant and comforting. The creamy ricotta paired with fresh herbs tucked inside tender chicken breasts makes for a memorable meal that is surprisingly simple to prepare at home. Perfect for a weeknight treat or a special occasion, this dish brings warmth and flavor in every bite.

I first made this on a chilly weekend when I wanted something a bit fancy but without fuss. Since then my family requests it whenever we want to feel cozy yet satisfied after dinner.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Four boneless skinless chicken breasts: pounding them flat ensures even cooking and easier rolling
• One cup ricotta cheese: creamy texture with less fat makes it a perfect filling base
• One third cup grated Parmesan cheese: adds a subtle nutty depth, best if freshly grated
• Two cups fresh spinach: adds a mild earthy note and beautiful green color, spinach should be crisp and bright
• Quarter cup fresh basil: fresh is key here for a lively herbaceous hit
• Quarter cup fresh parsley: boosts freshness and balances out rich cheese
• One teaspoon garlic powder: alternatively use minced fresh garlic for more pungency
• Salt and pepper to taste: essential seasoning to enhance all flavors
• One cup marinara sauce: homemade or good quality jarred sauce works, opt for one with robust tomato flavor
• Two tablespoons olive oil: for searing the chicken and building a golden crust
• Half teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: optional, adds a pleasant gentle heat if you like a little spice

How to Make It

Sauté the spinach and herbs:

Heat a splash of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, about three minutes. Remove from heat and mix in the chopped fresh basil and parsley. This brings out their fragrance without overcooking.

Prepare the ricotta filling:

In a bowl combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, sautéed spinach and herbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine everything evenly without breaking down the cheese too much.

Pound the chicken and spread:

Lay each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Use a meat mallet or rolling pin to pound them to about a quarter inch thickness. Even thickness ensures quick, consistent cooking. Remove the top layer of wrap then spread an even layer of the ricotta filling over each piece leaving space at the edges.

Roll and secure the chicken:

Roll each chicken breast tightly around the filling starting from one end to the other. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the rolls so they hold their shape during cooking.

Sear and bake the rolls:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken roll until golden brown on all sides, about five minutes total. Pour marinara sauce around the rolls in the skillet. Transfer to the oven and bake for twenty to twenty-five minutes until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.

Rest and serve:

Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for five minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Remove toothpicks or twine carefully before slicing to serve. Spoon extra marinara sauce over the rolls and enjoy warm.

I love the fresh basil here because it adds a lively brightness that truly lifts the entire dish. One time I made this recipe for a family gathering and everyone was pleasantly surprised at how impressive and delicious something so straightforward could be. It quickly became a favorite for all those cozy nights ahead.

Flavor Boosters

Store leftover chicken rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the texture moist. You can also freeze cooked rolls wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or simple sautéed green beans to keep the meal comforting and balanced. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the stuffed chicken rolls perfectly. A crusty baguette or garlic bread is great for soaking up the marinara sauce on the plate.

Creative Twists

In spring or summer use fresh garden herbs like chives or tarragon to brighten the filling. In colder months add a pinch of nutmeg to the ricotta mixture for subtle warmth. Swap marinara sauce with a roasted red pepper sauce or mushroom cream sauce to vary throughout the year.

This recipe combines elegance with simplicity to create a dish that is as impressive as it is comforting. Perfectly suited for both casual weeknights and special occasions.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use other cheeses instead of ricotta?

Yes, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or a mild cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.

→ How do I ensure the chicken rolls stay secure while cooking?

Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to tightly secure the rolls before searing and baking to prevent unraveling.

→ Can fresh spinach be replaced or omitted?

Fresh spinach adds moisture and flavor but can be omitted or replaced with kale or Swiss chard if preferred.

→ What is the best method to cook these chicken rolls evenly?

Pounding the chicken breasts flat ensures even thickness and cooking. Start by searing on the stove then finish in the oven for juicy results.

→ Can I adjust the level of spice in this dish?

Yes, crushed red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted or omitted to control the heat.