Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls

Herbed ricotta stuffed chicken rolls are the kind of cozy dinner you want for a relaxed evening at home. This recipe takes tender chicken breasts and wraps them around an herb-flecked ricotta filling for a dish that is both comforting and impressive without a ton of fuss. The technique is classic but the flavors are bright and modern with fresh basil and parsley giving it a lift. For me, it is a favorite Sunday meal when I crave something homemade yet simple.

The first time I served this was for my parents and seeing their faces light up over the creamy filling made it an instant keeper. Even picky eaters go back for seconds in my house.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Choose boneless and skinless and pound to an even thickness so the filling stays tucked inside and it cooks evenly
• Ricotta cheese: Use a creamy fresh ricotta Choose full fat for richness or part skim for less fat content
• Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty saltiness Grate it yourself for best taste
• Fresh spinach: Gives color and a mild earthy flavor Baby spinach is most tender but you can swap for arugula or even finely chopped kale
• Fresh basil: Brightens the filling Use fresh leaves for a fragrant boost
• Fresh parsley: Lends freshness and a clean note Flat leaf is more flavorful than curly
• Garlic powder: Quick and mellow or use finely minced fresh garlic for a punchier taste
• Salt and pepper: Should be freshly ground if possible Taste as you go to avoid over salting
• Marinara sauce: Rich tomato base A good jarred sauce works but if you have homemade even better
• Olive oil: For searing the chicken and adding flavor Choose extra virgin for its grassy notes
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional but adds heat Adjust to your spice preference
• Toothpicks or kitchen twine: Needed for holding the rolls together during cooking Easy to remove before serving

How to Make It

Pound and Prep the Chicken:

Pound the chicken breasts out to an even thickness about half an inch. Set between two sheets of parchment and use a mallet or rolling pin. This ensures even baking and easier rolling. Season with salt and pepper on both sides.

Make the Ricotta Filling:

In a medium bowl mix together ricotta, parmesan, chopped basil, chopped parsley, garlic powder, salt and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning. Fold in the chopped spinach.

Fill and Roll:

Lay each chicken breast flat. Smooth a generous spoonful of ricotta mixture over the surface but leave about half an inch border on all sides. Carefully roll the chicken up tightly starting from the short side. Secure the seam with toothpicks or tie with kitchen twine.

Sear the Rolls:

Heat olive oil in a large oven safe skillet over medium high heat. When hot, add the chicken rolls seam side down. Sear for about two minutes on each side until golden brown. This helps lock in flavor and keeps the rolls from unraveling.

Bake:

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Pour marinara sauce over and around the chicken rolls in the skillet. Sprinkle with crushed red pepper if you want a kick. Move the skillet to the oven. Bake uncovered for about twenty five minutes or until chicken reaches one hundred sixty five degrees inside and juices run clear.

Rest and Serve:

Let the stuffed chicken rest for five minutes before slicing. Remove toothpicks or twine. Spoon extra sauce over the top and sprinkle with more fresh herbs if desired.

I have a soft spot for ricotta cheese in savory recipes because it reminds me of family lasagna nights growing up. Its gentle creaminess paired with the fresh herbs here makes each bite genuinely feel like comfort food. My kids love sneaking extra cheese into the filling too.

Flavor Boosters

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven with a splash of extra sauce to keep the rolls moist. If you want to enjoy this later in the week it holds up well for make ahead lunches.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a simple crisp green salad or roasted veggies on the side. If you are in the mood for something cozy add garlic bread or a scoop of creamy polenta. This is also a lovely party main course sliced on a platter.

Creative Twists

Swap the spinach for arugula or chopped kale for a heartier texture. Goat cheese or cottage cheese works if ricotta is not on hand. Try turkey cutlets instead of chicken for a slightly leaner dish.

I have learned over the years that patience with the filling and taking the time to sear the rolls well makes all the difference. There is magic in those golden edges and the creamy filling bubbling inside. If you ever find yourself needing a comforting showstopper this recipe never fails.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use store-bought marinara sauce for the rolls?

Yes, store-bought marinara sauce works well, but feel free to use homemade or your favorite alternative for added flavor.

→ What’s the best way to pound chicken breasts evenly?

Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound with a meat mallet or rolling pin until thin and even.

→ Are there alternatives to ricotta in the filling?

You can substitute cottage cheese or goat cheese if desired. Each will provide a different flavor and texture profile.

→ How do I keep the rolls from unrolling during cooking?

Secure the chicken rolls with toothpicks or kitchen twine to help them hold their shape while cooking.

→ What sides pair well with these stuffed chicken rolls?

These rolls pair beautifully with pasta, green salads, steamed vegetables, or warm crusty bread for a complete meal.