Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls

Name: Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls for a Flavorful Dinner!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Posted on October 24, 2025

DINNER

Introduction to Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls

As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a delicious dinner after a long day. That’s why I absolutely adore these Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls! They’re not just a quick solution for a hectic evening; they’re also a dish that will impress your loved ones. Imagine tender chicken breasts filled with a creamy herbed ricotta mixture, all baked to perfection. It’s a delightful way to bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls

These Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are a game-changer for busy nights. They come together quickly, making them perfect for those evenings when time is tight. The combination of creamy ricotta and fresh herbs creates a flavor explosion that will have your family raving. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with various sides, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. You’ll love how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal at home!

Ingredients for Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls a success. Here’s what you’ll need:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish! They’re tender and easy to roll.
Ricotta cheese: This creamy cheese adds richness and a delightful texture to the filling.
Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this cheese brings a nutty flavor that complements the ricotta.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a burst of freshness and color to the filling.
Fresh basil: This aromatic herb enhances the Italian flair of the dish.
Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the filling with a savory kick that elevates the overall taste.
Salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
Black pepper: A dash of pepper adds a subtle heat that balances the creaminess.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a classic Italian flavor profile to the rolls.
Marinara sauce: This rich sauce is poured over the chicken rolls, adding moisture and flavor.
Olive oil: Used for searing the chicken, it adds a lovely golden color and depth of flavor.

For those looking to mix things up, consider marinating the chicken in olive oil and herbs for a few hours before stuffing. You can also swap in other cheeses like mozzarella for a gooey twist. If you’re short on fresh herbs, dried versions can work in a pinch, just remember to adjust the quantities!

Exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making these Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly. A hot oven helps seal in the juices, keeping the chicken tender and flavorful. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, basil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well blended. This mixture is the heart of your rolls, so taste it! Adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or herbs can make a world of difference.

Step 3: Flatten the Chicken Breasts

Next, take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and place them between two sheets of plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound them to an even thickness, about half an inch. This step is key for even cooking and makes rolling easier. Plus, it’s a great way to relieve stress after a long day!

Step 4: Stuff the Chicken

Now, it’s time to stuff the chicken! Spread a generous amount of the ricotta mixture over each flattened chicken breast, leaving a little space at the edges. Carefully roll the chicken up, starting from one end. Secure each roll with toothpicks to keep everything intact. Don’t worry if they’re not perfect; they’ll still taste amazing!

Step 5: Sear the Chicken Rolls

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken rolls and sear them until golden brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Searing adds a beautiful color and enhances the flavor. It’s like giving your chicken a warm hug before it heads to the oven!

Step 6: Bake the Chicken Rolls

Transfer the seared chicken rolls to a baking dish and pour marinara sauce over them. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. To check for doneness, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F (74°C). Once done, remove the toothpicks before serving. Your Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are now ready to impress!

Tips for Success

Always use fresh herbs for the best flavor; they make a noticeable difference.
Don’t rush the searing process; it’s key for that golden crust.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking for juicier rolls.
Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor profiles.
Pair with a light salad or pasta for a complete meal.

Equipment Needed

Meat mallet: A rolling pin can work in a pinch for flattening chicken.
Mixing bowl: Any large bowl will do for combining the ricotta mixture.
Skillet: A non-stick pan is great for searing, but any skillet works.
Baking dish: A casserole dish or even a sheet pan can be used.
Toothpicks: Kitchen twine can substitute for securing the rolls.

Variations

Spinach and Feta: Add fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese to the ricotta mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
Mushroom Medley: Sauté mushrooms and mix them into the filling for an earthy flavor boost.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, sweet addition that pairs beautifully with the ricotta.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the ricotta mixture for a gluten-free version.
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or oregano to customize the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls

Pair with a light arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Serve alongside garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
A glass of crisp white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
Garnish with extra fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

FAQs about Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls

Can I make Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken rolls and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to cook, simply bake them as directed. This makes for a fantastic meal prep option!

What can I serve with Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls?

These rolls pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic. The marinara sauce also makes a great dipping sauce for garlic bread!

Can I freeze the stuffed chicken rolls?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls! Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual. It’s a great way to have a delicious meal ready to go!

What if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

If you find yourself without ricotta, don’t fret! You can substitute it with cottage cheese or cream cheese for a different but still delicious filling. Just blend them well to achieve a smooth texture before mixing in the herbs and spices.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The best way to check for doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the chicken to ensure the juices run clear and there’s no pink meat inside.

Final Thoughts

Cooking these Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy for your family. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is simply irresistible, and the smiles around the dinner table are priceless. This recipe is a reminder that even on the busiest days, you can whip up something special that brings everyone together. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the delicious rewards. Trust me, your loved ones will cherish these moments just as much as the meal itself!