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These herbed ricotta stuffed chicken rolls bring a burst of Italian flavor to your dinner table with creamy, herb-infused cheese wrapped inside tender chicken breasts. They offer a satisfying meal that feels special without demanding too much time or effort.
I first made these rolls when I had fresh basil and parsley growing in my garden, and the aroma while cooking was so inviting my whole family gathered around the stove. Now they are a go-to for easy but impressive dinners.
Ingredients
- Four boneless skinless chicken breasts: look for even thickness to ensure uniform cooking
- One cup ricotta cheese: creamy filling base that keeps the chicken moist
- Quarter cup grated Parmesan cheese: adds a nutty salty flavor that complements ricotta
- Quarter cup fresh basil chopped: provides a sweet aromatic freshness; pick bright green leaves without brown spots
- Quarter cup fresh parsley chopped: adds earthiness and a slight peppery bite
- Two cloves garlic minced: essential for depth and warmth in the filling
- Salt and pepper to taste: enhances all the other flavors naturally
- Olive oil for cooking: use a good quality extra virgin variety for searing
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine for securing rolls: keeps the filling nicely enclosed while cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Slicing the Chicken:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius. Lay each chicken breast flat and carefully slice to create a pocket without cutting all the way through. This pocket will hold the cheese and herb stuffing.
- Preparing the Filling:
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, chopped basil, parsley, and minced garlic. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently just to blend so the filling remains fluffy and creamy.
- Stuffing the Chicken:
- Spoon the cheese mixture into each chicken pocket until nicely filled but not overflowing. Secure the openings with toothpicks or tie with kitchen twine to keep everything in place as the chicken cooks.
- Searing the Rolls:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place each chicken roll seam side down and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crisp. This step builds flavor and texture.
- Baking to Finish:
- Transfer the seared chicken rolls to a baking dish and place in the oven. Bake for about 20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 75 degrees Celsius. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.
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Ricotta cheese is my favorite ingredient here because it adds the perfect creamy contrast to the savory herbs and chicken. I remember how my kids’ eyes lit up when they bit into the first roll and caught that burst of fresh basil. This dish brings great memories around our dinner table.
Storage Tips
Store leftover chicken rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or skillet to maintain the crispy exterior without drying out the filling. These also freeze beautifully; wrap individually in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find fresh basil or parsley try using dried herbs but reduce the amount by half as dried herbs are more concentrated. Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta in a pinch but expect a slightly grainier texture. Grated Pecorino Romano cheese works instead of Parmesan for a sharper bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these chicken rolls alongside a fresh green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil to balance richness. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or thinly sliced zucchini add vibrant color and complementary textures. A side of garlic mashed potatoes or creamy polenta will soak up any juice escaping from the rolls and make the meal extra comforting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of cheese is used for stuffing?
A combination of creamy ricotta and grated Parmesan cheese is used to create a rich and flavorful filling.
- → Can I use other herbs besides basil and parsley?
Yes, you can customize the filling with herbs such as thyme, oregano, or rosemary to suit your taste preferences.
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays moist while cooking?
Searing the stuffed chicken rolls first helps lock in juices. Baking at a moderate temperature finishes cooking gently for tender results.
- → What is the best way to secure the chicken rolls during cooking?
Using toothpicks or kitchen twine to hold the rolls together prevents filling from spilling and helps maintain shape.
- → Is there an ideal internal temperature for the chicken?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is safe and fully cooked.