Stuffed Chicken Breast Spinach Ricotta: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Stuffed chicken breast spinach ricotta – just the name conjures up images of a perfectly browned, juicy chicken breast, oozing with a creamy, flavorful filling. And let me tell you, the reality is even better than the dream! I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, a dish that’s elegant enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a weeknight meal.

While the exact origins of stuffing chicken breasts are a bit murky, the concept of stuffing meats dates back centuries. Cultures around the world have long enjoyed filling various meats with flavorful combinations of herbs, cheeses, and vegetables. This particular combination, stuffed chicken breast spinach ricotta, feels distinctly Italian-inspired, echoing the classic flavors of lasagna and ravioli. It’s a delightful fusion of comfort food and sophisticated cuisine.

So, why do people adore this dish? Well, the answer is multifaceted. First, there’s the taste: the savory chicken, the creamy ricotta, and the earthy spinach create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Then there’s the texture: the tender chicken breast gives way to a soft, yielding filling. But perhaps the biggest draw is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling with different cheeses, herbs, or vegetables to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare, making it a winner for busy weeknights. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this delectable and satisfying meal!

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 10 ounces fresh spinach, washed and chopped
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for breading)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
• Optional: Lemon wedges for serving

Preparing the Spinach Ricotta Filling

Okay, let’s get started with the heart of this dish – the delicious spinach ricotta filling! This is where all the flavor comes from, so pay close attention.

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; allowing the onions to soften properly will really enhance the flavor.
2. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
3. Wilt the Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. You might need to do this in batches, as the spinach will wilt down considerably. Cook until the spinach is wilted and tender, about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking.
4. Drain Excess Moisture: This is a crucial step! Transfer the spinach mixture to a colander and press out as much excess moisture as possible. You can use the back of a spoon or your hands (carefully, as it will be hot!). Getting rid of the excess water will prevent the filling from being soggy. Alternatively, you can squeeze the spinach in a clean kitchen towel.
5. Combine the Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained spinach mixture, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, beaten egg, nutmeg, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined. Taste the filling and adjust seasonings as needed. Don’t be afraid to add a little more salt, pepper, or Parmesan cheese to get it just right!

Preparing the Chicken Breasts

Now, let’s get the chicken ready to be stuffed. This involves a little bit of finesse, but don’t worry, I’ll walk you through it.

1. Pound the Chicken: Place each chicken breast between two sheets of plastic wrap or in a large resealable bag. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/4-inch to 1/2-inch. This will help them cook evenly and make them easier to roll. Be careful not to pound them too thin, or they will tear.
2. Season the Chicken: Season both sides of each chicken breast with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Stuffing and Rolling the Chicken

This is where the magic happens! We’re going to fill those chicken breasts with the delicious spinach ricotta mixture and roll them up.

1. Fill the Chicken: Place about 1/4 of the spinach ricotta filling onto each flattened chicken breast, spreading it evenly over the surface, leaving about 1/2-inch border around the edges.
2. Roll the Chicken: Starting from one end, carefully roll up each chicken breast tightly. Secure the seam with toothpicks or kitchen twine. This will prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking. Make sure the rolls are snug but not too tight, as the filling will expand slightly during cooking.

Breading the Chicken Rolls

The breading adds a lovely crispy texture and helps to seal in the juices. Here’s how to do it right.

1. Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, place the beaten eggs. In the third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.
2. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken roll in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, coat it thoroughly with the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere.

Cooking the Stuffed Chicken

We’re almost there! Now it’s time to cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through.

1. Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the breaded chicken rolls to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Searing the chicken first helps to create a beautiful crust and lock in the juices.
2. Bake the Chicken: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the skillet (if oven-safe) or the chicken rolls to a baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. If the chicken starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil.
3. Rest the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

Serving

Finally, it’s time to enjoy your hard work! Here are a few serving suggestions.

1. Slice and Serve: Remove the toothpicks or kitchen twine from the chicken rolls. Slice the chicken into 1-inch thick slices and arrange them on a serving platter.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired.
3. Serving Suggestions: Serve the stuffed chicken breast with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, pasta, or a simple salad. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a bright and refreshing touch.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This stuffed chicken breast with spinach and ricotta is truly a game-changer. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. The creamy, flavorful filling nestled inside tender, juicy chicken is a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. I know I always do!

But why is this recipe a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible flavor profile, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Don’t let the “stuffed” part intimidate you. With a few simple steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. It’s also a fantastic way to sneak in some extra greens, making it a win-win for both your taste buds and your health. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile!

Looking for serving suggestions? I love pairing this stuffed chicken breast spinach ricotta with a light and refreshing side salad. Think mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette or a simple tomato and cucumber salad. Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts also complement the dish beautifully. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with a side of quinoa, couscous, or mashed sweet potatoes. A drizzle of balsamic glaze adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that elevates the entire plate.

And speaking of versatility, let’s talk variations! Feel free to get creative with the filling. Want to add a little spice? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will do the trick. Craving something cheesy? Incorporate some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese into the ricotta mixture. You could even add some sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist. If you’re not a fan of spinach, kale or Swiss chard are excellent substitutes. The possibilities are endless!

For a lower-carb option, consider serving the stuffed chicken breast over a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. You can also skip the breading altogether for a gluten-free version. To make it even easier, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and stuff the chicken breasts just before cooking. This is a great time-saver for busy weeknights.

I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and relatively healthy – what more could you ask for?

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this stuffed chicken breast spinach ricotta as much as I do. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try any variations? What sides did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think?

Please, please, please, come back and leave a comment below to share your thoughts and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps other readers discover new and exciting ways to enjoy this delicious dish. I can’t wait to hear from you! Happy cooking!

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