Description
Tender chicken wrapped around a creamy, herb-forward ricotta center, seared for color and baked in marinara.
Ingredients
- 4 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Pounded flat for even cooking)
- 1 cup Ricotta Cheese (Creamy and lower in fat)
- 1/3 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional but recommended)
- 2 cups Fresh Spinach (Can be omitted or replaced)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Basil (Always opt for fresh)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Adds freshness)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 1 cup Marinara Sauce (Consider using homemade or alternative sauce)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For searing)
- 1/2 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for spice)
- as needed Toothpicks or Kitchen Twine (For securing rolls)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap. Pound to an even 1/4–1/2 inch thickness.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, grated parmesan, chopped fresh basil, chopped fresh parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Fold in the chopped spinach (squeeze out excess moisture if wilted).
- Spoon an even layer of the ricotta mixture down the center of each flattened breast.
- Roll each breast tightly around the filling and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear rolls on all sides until golden brown, about 2 minutes per side.
- Spoon marinara sauce into the pan around the rolls (not overstuffing them) and sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Remove toothpicks or twine, slice on the bias, and spoon extra sauce over the top.
Notes
If you don’t have fresh basil or parsley, use 1–2 teaspoons dried each (reduce amount). Spinach can be swapped for arugula or kale (blanched). For a richer filling, fold in a beaten egg or a spoonful of mascarpone.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian