Ricotta Stuffed Chicken
Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with creamy ricotta and pepperoni, then rolled, baked, and topped with marinara and melted mozzarella for a flavorful Italian-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine beaten egg, ricotta cheese, chopped pepperoni, and pepper; set aside.
- Place chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to 6-inch rectangles.
- Spread 1/4 cup of ricotta mixture on the short end of each breast.
- Fold in the long sides and roll starting at the edge with the cheese.
- Place the rolled chicken breasts seam side down in an 8 x 8 x 2-inch pan.
- Microwave the chicken for 8 to 11 minutes until cooked through.
- Heat spaghetti sauce and pour over the chicken.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley with the ricotta cheese. If you want a little spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. For a lighter version, you can substitute the ricotta with cottage cheese or use turkey pepperoni as a healthier alternative. This dish is also great for meal prep, similar to Chicken Rigatoni.
Serving Suggestions
This Ricotta Stuffed Chicken pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You could also serve it over a bed of pasta to soak up the delicious spaghetti sauce. For a Mediterranean twist, consider pairing it with roasted vegetables or serving it alongside Italian recipes for a themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. For an oven option, reheat at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ricotta Stuffed Chicken contains roughly 273 calories, with 16g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 517mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken rolls in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just cover them tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to cook, you can either bake or microwave them as directed.
What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta on hand, you can substitute it with cottage cheese blended until smooth or even cream cheese mixed with a bit of milk to achieve a similar texture. Both options will provide a creamy filling that complements the chicken well.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed chicken before cooking. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then cook as directed. The flavors will still be delicious after freezing.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).