Introduction
If you’re looking for a delightful dinner that feels a bit fancy without the fuss, look no further than these Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls. Bursting with flavor and packed with cheesy goodness, this dish will surely impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this delicious creation that’s perfect for a cozy evening at home!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness.
- Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly onto each pounded chicken breast and roll them up tightly.
- Secure each roll with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken rolls on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Pour marinara sauce over the chicken rolls and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then remove toothpicks or twine before serving.
Notes or Tips
- For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture.
- Pair these chicken rolls with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Feel free to substitute the herbs based on your preference.
Cooking Techniques
Creating those perfectly rolled chicken breasts requires a little finesse. Pound the chicken to an even thickness; this ensures even cooking and prevents dryness. Searing adds wonderful depth of flavor, while finishing in the oven helps retain moisture.
FAQ
- Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese? Yes, but it may alter the creaminess of the filling.
- What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Dried herbs can be used, but reduce the amount to about a third.
- Can these be made ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the rolls, store them in the fridge, and bake when ready to serve.
Conclusion
These Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are sure to become a family favorite. They’re simple to make, yet they offer a touch of elegance to any dinner table. Enjoy each bite of this savory creation!