If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that feels elegant yet is surprisingly simple to prepare, Herbed Ricotta Chicken Rolls are the answer. This ricotta stuffed chicken breast recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a creamy herb filling that melts beautifully as it bakes. The result? A restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even special occasions.

These baked chicken roll ups are packed with fresh herbs, creamy ricotta cheese, garlic, and a touch of parmesan for depth. Each slice reveals a gorgeous spiral of white, green, and golden brown—making it as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Whether you’re hosting guests or just upgrading your dinner routine, this creamy herb chicken recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love Herbed Ricotta Chicken Rolls

There are plenty of stuffed chicken recipes out there, but this one stands out for several reasons:

Incredibly moist and tender thanks to ricotta’s natural creaminess.
Packed with fresh herbs for bright, balanced flavor.
Simple ingredients you can easily find at any grocery store.
Low-carb and high-protein, making it ideal for balanced meals.
Elegant presentation without complicated steps.

The combination of creamy cheese and aromatic herbs ensures every bite is flavorful without being heavy.

What Makes Ricotta Perfect for Stuffed Chicken?

Ricotta cheese is often associated with Italian dishes like lasagna or cannoli, but it’s also one of the best cheeses for stuffing proteins. Unlike heavier cheeses, ricotta is light, fluffy, and mild. When mixed with herbs and seasonings, it transforms into a silky filling that enhances rather than overwhelms the chicken.

Its slightly sweet, milky flavor balances the savory garlic and parmesan beautifully. Plus, it helps keep the chicken moist during baking—no dry bites here.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make Herbed Ricotta Chicken Rolls:

4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Prepare the chicken breasts by placing them between two sheets of plastic wrap and pounding them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch). This ensures even cooking and easier rolling.
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, parmesan, garlic, parsley, basil, thyme, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.
Lay each flattened chicken breast on a clean surface. Spread 2–3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture evenly over each piece, leaving a small border around the edges.
Carefully roll each chicken breast tightly, starting from the narrower end. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
Brush the outside of each roll with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with paprika for added color.
Place the rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
For an optional saucy finish, spoon marinara sauce over the rolls during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Remove from oven and let rest for 5–7 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Roll Ups

1. Pound Evenly

Uniform thickness ensures even cooking and prevents dry edges.

2. Don’t Overfill

Too much ricotta can cause the filling to spill out during baking. Stick to 2–3 tablespoons per breast.

3. Use Fresh Herbs

Fresh parsley, basil, and thyme elevate the flavor. If using dried herbs, reduce the quantity slightly.

4. Let It Rest

Allowing the rolls to rest after baking helps retain juices and keeps slices neat.

Delicious Variations

One of the best parts about this easy stuffed chicken dinner is how adaptable it is.

Spinach Ricotta Version

Add 1/2 cup finely chopped sautéed spinach to the ricotta mixture for extra color and nutrients.

Lemon Herb Twist

Add 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon zest to brighten the flavor profile.

Bacon-Wrapped Upgrade

Wrap each chicken roll with a slice of bacon before baking for a smoky, crispy finish.

Creamy Alfredo Style

Instead of marinara, bake the rolls in a light Alfredo sauce for a richer option.

What to Serve with Herbed Ricotta Chicken Rolls

These creamy herb chicken rolls pair beautifully with:

Garlic mashed potatoes
Roasted asparagus or green beans
Lemon butter rice
Simple arugula salad
Steamed broccoli
Buttery dinner rolls

For a lighter option, serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make Ahead

You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze fully cooked rolls individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Nutritional Benefits

This ricotta stuffed chicken breast recipe is:

High in protein
Moderate in healthy fats
Lower in carbs
Naturally gluten-free

It’s a balanced meal option that satisfies without feeling heavy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the pounding step (uneven cooking)
Overbaking (leads to dryness)
Using watery ricotta (drain excess moisture if needed)
Forgetting to secure the rolls

Why This Recipe Works for Any Occasion

Herbed Ricotta Chicken Rolls strike the perfect balance between comfort food and elegant presentation. The creamy filling feels indulgent, yet the fresh herbs keep it light and bright. The spiral slices look impressive on a plate, making this recipe ideal for:

Dinner parties
Holiday meals
Date nights
Family gatherings
Meal prep Sundays

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a flavorful, foolproof stuffed chicken recipe, this one deserves a permanent spot in your rotation. Herbed Ricotta Chicken Rolls combine creamy ricotta, aromatic herbs, and tender baked chicken into one irresistible dish.

Simple ingredients. Elegant results. Incredible flavor.

Once you try it, this easy stuffed chicken dinner might just become your new favorite.