Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are a delicious, savory dish that features tender chicken breasts stuffed with a flavorful ricotta cheese mixture, seasoned with fresh herbs and garlic. These rolls are then baked to perfection and topped with a light, flavorful sauce. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also an impressive dish for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are bursting with flavor, thanks to the creamy ricotta filling and fresh herbs like basil and parsley. The chicken remains juicy and tender while the ricotta mixture adds a rich, savory flavor. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and elegant, perfect for those who love a light yet indulgent meal. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Rolls:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 cup ricotta cheese
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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2 tablespoons olive oil (for searing)
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Toothpicks (for securing the rolls)
For the Sauce:
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1 teaspoon lemon juice
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
Make the Herbed Ricotta Filling:
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In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella, fresh parsley, basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until the filling is smooth and well-combined. Set aside.
Prepare the Chicken:
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, or butterfly the chicken by cutting it almost all the way through and opening it like a book.
4. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
5. Spoon a generous amount of the herbed ricotta mixture onto one side of each chicken breast.
6. Roll up the chicken breasts tightly around the ricotta filling and secure them with toothpicks to keep them closed during cooking.
Cook the Chicken Rolls:
7. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken rolls and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through.
Make the Sauce:
9. While the chicken is baking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
10. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Allow it to reduce by about half, which should take around 3-4 minutes.
11. Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serve and Enjoy:
12. Once the chicken is cooked, remove the toothpicks and place the chicken rolls on a serving platter.
13. Drizzle the cream sauce over the top of the chicken rolls, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil.
14. Serve with a side of vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a complete meal.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cook time is 30 minutes, so total time is about 45 minutes.
Variations
I like to:
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Add a handful of spinach to the ricotta filling for added color and nutrition.
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Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes into the ricotta mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
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Use a pesto sauce instead of the cream sauce for a fresh, herby flavor.
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Add a little grated Parmesan cheese to the ricotta mixture for a sharper flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover chicken rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
Can I make these chicken rolls ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the chicken rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before searing and baking.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the mozzarella with other cheeses like feta, goat cheese, or fontina for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that some cheeses, like feta, are tangier, while others, like fontina, are milder.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can use dairy-free ricotta and cheese alternatives to make this recipe dairy-free. Look for plant-based substitutes that melt well for the mozzarella, and use a dairy-free heavy cream substitute for the sauce.
Conclusion
Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken with a creamy, herbed ricotta filling. Paired with a rich cream sauce, this dish is the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, it’s sure to impress and become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
