The Best Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls
The Best Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are tender chicken breasts rolled up with a creamy, flavorful ricotta filling mixed with fresh herbs. These rolls bake up juicy on the…
Tip: save now, cook later.The Best Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are tender chicken breasts rolled up with a creamy, flavorful ricotta filling mixed with fresh herbs. These rolls bake up juicy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside. The mix of herbs adds a bright, fragrant touch that makes every bite feel special.
I love making these chicken rolls when I want something a little different but still comforting. The ricotta keeps the chicken moist, and the herbs give it such a nice pop of flavor. It’s fun to roll them up and see what kind of neat little pockets you can create inside. I usually add a sprinkle of parmesan on top before baking because it adds a nice golden crust.
Serving these with a simple green salad or some roasted veggies is my go-to for a cozy dinner. They’re also great for company because they look fancy but are actually pretty easy to make. Plus, leftovers heat up well, so I always feel like I’ve got a little treat waiting for me the next day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Pounding the chicken thin helps it roll easily and cook evenly. If chicken breasts are thick, try butterflying them before pounding. You could substitute with turkey cutlets if you prefer leaner meat.
Ricotta cheese: This creates the creamy filling. If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese blended until smooth works well too. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based soft cheese alternative.
Fresh herbs (parsley, basil, thyme): Fresh herbs bring bright flavor to the filling. If you don’t have fresh, dried herbs can be used—use about one-third the amount. I like swapping basil for oregano sometimes, which adds a nice twist.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth to the filling and helps with browning. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano are good substitutes. You can leave it out if avoiding dairy but the flavor will be milder.
How Can You Keep the Chicken Rolls Tight and Prevent Filling Spills?
Rolling chicken properly is key for neat, sealed rolls and even cooking:
- Flatten chicken evenly: Pound chicken breasts to about 1/2 inch thick; this makes rolling easier and prevents tearing.
- Don’t overfill: Use a thin layer of cheese mixture so it won’t ooze out while cooking.
- Secure carefully: Use toothpicks to hold the roll’s seam and edges. If you have kitchen twine, tying the roll ensures it won’t unravel.
- Sear seam side down: When browning, place rolls seam side down first so they seal more firmly.
Following these steps will make slicing the rolls easier and keep your filling inside where it belongs.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Meat mallet or rolling pin – helps you flatten the chicken evenly for easy rolling.
- Mixing bowl – perfect for combining the cheeses and herbs smoothly.
- Oven-proof skillet – great for searing the rolls and finishing them in the oven without extra dishes.
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine – essential for keeping the chicken rolls tight while cooking.
- Sharp knife – for clean slices when serving your rolls.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap spinach or kale in the filling for added greens and nutrients, which also adds nice texture.
- Mix in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers into the ricotta for a sweet, tangy flavor boost.
- Replace mozzarella with fontina or provolone for a different melty cheese taste.
- Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the filling for a gentle spicy kick.
The Best Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Rolls:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for brushing
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Toothpicks or kitchen twine, for securing rolls
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, including pounding the chicken and mixing the filling. Searing the rolls takes around 10 minutes, followed by 20-25 minutes of baking. Plan for a total of approximately 45 minutes, including a short resting time before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound it with a meat mallet or rolling pin until it is about ½ inch thick. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes rolling easier.
2. Make the Herbed Ricotta Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, minced garlic, parsley, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are mixed into a creamy, flavorful filling.
3. Roll and Secure the Chicken:
Spread an even layer of the herbed ricotta mixture over each flattened chicken breast. Starting from the narrow end, carefully roll up each breast, tucking in the sides as you go to keep the filling inside. Use toothpicks or kitchen twine to secure the rolls so they hold their shape during cooking.
4. Sear and Bake the Rolls:
Heat olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken rolls seam side down first and sear until golden brown on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Then transfer the skillet to the oven, or move the rolls to a baking dish if your skillet is not oven-proof. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
5. Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Take out the toothpicks or twine, slice the rolls, and serve warm. Enjoy the juicy, cheesy, and herb-filled chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken breasts before pounding and rolling. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or place sealed chicken in cold water for faster thawing. Pat dry before prepping to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Prepare the Chicken Rolls Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the stuffed chicken rolls and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. When ready, simply sear and bake as directed for fresh, flavorful results.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the texture tender and creamy inside.
What Are Good Side Dishes to Serve With These Chicken Rolls?
These rolls pair wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a simple green salad, or buttery mashed potatoes. They also go well with a light pasta tossed in olive oil and garlic to soak up any extra cheese filling.
