Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that feels both elegant and comforting, these Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls are an absolute game-changer. Tender chicken cutlets get a flavorful makeover with a luscious ricotta cheese filling, brightened by fresh herbs and lemon zest. Wrapped in delicate prosciutto and coated with crispy Italian breadcrumbs, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors that will impress anyone lucky enough to share your table. The best part? These delightful rolls are surprisingly simple to make and come together with ingredients you probably already have on hand, making Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls a new staple for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a critical role, whether it’s adding moisture, flavor, or that beautiful golden crunch you’re aiming for. Knowing what goes into your dish helps you get the best results, and luckily, these essentials are straightforward and familiar.

• Chicken cutlets: Thinly pounded to ensure even cooking and an easy roll-up.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps breadcrumbs stick for a crisp crust.
• Lemon juice: Provides a fresh, tangy brightness that lifts the entire dish.
• Italian breadcrumbs: Create a flavorful, crunchy coating with herbs and seasonings.
• Prosciutto slices: Offer a salty, savory layer that enhances the chicken’s flavor.
• Ricotta cheese: A creamy base for the herb filling that keeps the inside moist and luscious.
• Fresh basil: Brings sweet, aromatic herbal notes.
• Fresh sage: Adds an earthy and slightly peppery depth.
• Lemon zest: Delivers concentrated citrus aroma and flavor without extra acidity.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to enhance every component.

How to Make Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Cutlets

Start by preheating your oven to 350 °F. Next, place each chicken cutlet between two sheets of plastic wrap and use a meat tenderizer to pound them down to about a quarter inch thickness. Don’t stress perfection here — a few holes are completely fine! The even thickness helps the chicken cook uniformly, ensuring juicy rolls every time.

Step 2: Make the Lemon Butter and Breadcrumb Mixture

Melt the butter and whisk in fresh lemon juice. This mixture serves two purposes: it infuses the chicken with buttery-tangy goodness and acts as the glue for the breadcrumbs. Place the Italian breadcrumbs in a separate bowl ready for coating.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Cutlets

Dip each pounded cutlet into the melted butter mixture and then press it into the breadcrumbs. This layering creates that irresistible crispy outer texture once baked. Arrange the breaded cutlets on a plate as you go, preparing them for the next step.

Step 4: Prepare the Herbed Ricotta Filling

In a small bowl, stir together ricotta cheese, chopped fresh basil, fresh sage, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture is the heart of the Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls, giving you a creamy, flavorful burst in every bite.

Step 5: Assemble the Chicken Rolls

Lay one slice of prosciutto on each breaded cutlet, then spread about two tablespoons of your ricotta filling on top. Roll the chicken away from you, tucking the edges in snugly to form tight cylinders. Place each roll seam-side down in a baking dish to keep them from unraveling while baking. At this point, you can refrigerate the rolls if prepping ahead.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your chicken rollatini in the preheated oven at 350 °F for 30 to 35 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165 °F to ensure they are perfectly cooked through and juicy inside. Once baked, these Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls will look golden and inviting.

How to Serve Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil or sage make for beautiful garnishes that echo the flavors inside the rolls and add a pop of green. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon over the top also brightens the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

These chicken rolls pair wonderfully with simple, fresh sides. Think roasted seasonal veggies, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness of the filling. A lemony arugula salad is particularly lovely for adding peppery contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the rolls into elegant rounds for a stunning appetizer platter, or serve them whole for a hearty main course. Layer on a bed of sautéed spinach or creamy polenta to create a restaurant-worthy presentation that will wow family and guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover chicken rolls in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. This makes for a convenient, flavorful lunch or dinner option that reheats beautifully without losing any of the original charm.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap the assembled but uncooked rolls tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze them for up to two months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed until fully cooked.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a low oven (around 325 °F) to keep the chicken moist and preserve the crispy breadcrumb coating. Microwave reheating is possible but might soften the crust, so oven warming is preferred for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of ricotta?

Absolutely! While ricotta provides a creamy and mild base, you can experiment with cream cheese, cottage cheese, or even goat cheese to vary the flavor and texture, but be mindful that stronger cheeses will change the dish’s overall profile.

Is prosciutto necessary in the recipe?

Prosciutto adds a wonderful savory, salty touch and helps hold the rolls together. If you want to skip it, try using thin slices of bacon or pancetta, or simply omit it, but expect a slightly different flavor experience.

How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Pounding the chicken evenly and not overbaking are key. Also, the ricotta filling helps lock in moisture. Using a meat thermometer prevents drying out by ensuring perfect doneness.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the Italian breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The texture and flavor will be just as satisfying without the gluten.

What wine pairs well with Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a lightly oaked Chardonnay complements the lemony herbs and creamy filling beautifully, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Final Thoughts

I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making these Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Rolls as your next meal. They strike a perfect balance between impressive and approachable with flavors that feel both indulgent and fresh. Whether for family dinner or entertaining friends, these rolls are sure to become a beloved favorite that you’ll return to again and again.

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