Chicken Rollatini Guide: Delicious Recipes and Tips for Perfecting This Italian Classic

Chicken Rollatini is a delightful dish that never fails to impress at the dinner table. This Italian-inspired recipe features tender chicken breasts rolled around a savory filling, often made with creamy cheeses and fresh herbs, then baked to perfection. The history of Chicken Rollatini can be traced back to the rich culinary traditions of Italy, where rolling meats with flavorful ingredients has been a beloved technique for generations. What I adore about Chicken Rollatini is not just its mouthwatering taste and satisfying texture, but also its convenience; it’s a dish that can be prepared ahead of time and simply popped in the oven when you’re ready to serve. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, Chicken Rollatini is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 4 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your Chicken Rollatini will cook evenly and thoroughly. 2. **Prepare the Chicken Breasts**: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound the chicken to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This helps the chicken cook evenly and makes it easier to roll. 3. **Season the Chicken**: Once pounded, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried oregano and basil. This adds flavor to the chicken itself.

Making the Filling

4. **Combine the Ingredients**: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be creamy and slightly thick. 5. **Taste and Adjust**: Take a small spoonful of the filling and taste it. Adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference.

Assembling the Rollatini

6. **Fill the Chicken**: Lay a chicken breast flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the cheese filling onto the center of the chicken breast. Be careful not to overfill, as this can make rolling difficult. 7. **Roll the Chicken**: Starting from one end, carefully roll the chicken breast over the filling, tucking in the sides as you go to prevent the filling from spilling out. Secure the roll with toothpicks or kitchen twine if necessary. 8. **Repeat**: Continue this process with the remaining chicken breasts until all are filled and rolled.

Cooking the Chicken Rollatini

9. **Prepare the Baking Dish**: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This prevents the chicken from sticking and adds flavor. 10. **Sear the Chicken**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken rollatini, seam side down. Sear for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. This step adds a nice texture and flavor to the chicken. 11. **Transfer to Baking Dish**: Once seared, carefully transfer the chicken rollatini to the baking dish, placing them seam side down on top of the marinara sauce. 12. **Top with Sauce and Cheese**: Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the chicken rollatini, ensuring they are well covered. Sprinkle additional mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top for a cheesy finish.

Baking the Rollatini

13. **Cover and Bake**: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. 14. **Uncover and Continue Baking**: After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and golden. 15. **Let it Rest**: Once done, remove the baking dish from the oven and let the Chicken Rollatini rest for about 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and makes it easier to slice.

Serving the Chicken Rollatini

16. **Slice and Serve**: Carefully remove the toothpicks or twine from the chicken rollatini. Slice each roll into thick pieces and arrange them on a serving platter. 17. **Garnish**: If desired, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and added flavor. 18. **Enjoy**: Serve the Chicken Rollatini warm, perhaps with a side of pasta, a fresh salad, or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious marinara

Conclusion:

In summary, this Chicken Rollatini recipe is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to impress their family or guests with a delicious and visually stunning dish. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and vibrant spinach creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and sophisticated. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily swap out the spinach for other greens like kale or even add sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. I highly recommend serving your Chicken Rollatini with a side of garlic bread and a fresh garden salad to round out the meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing it with a light white wine or a refreshing sparkling water infused with lemon and mint. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe! I’d love to hear about your experience in the kitchen. Did you make any variations? How did your family enjoy it? Please share your thoughts and any tips you discovered along the way. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and having fun, so don’t hesitate to make this Chicken Rollatini your own! Happy cooking! Print