Description
Juicy chicken breasts are stuffed with a savory mix of ricotta, sautéed spinach, pancetta, and herbs, then baked until golden and flavorful.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/3 cup cooked pancetta or bacon, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, plus more for garnish
- Kitchen twine or toothpicks for securing
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, combine the spinach mixture with ricotta, Parmesan, pancetta, red pepper flakes (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Carefully slice each chicken breast horizontally to create a pocket, or butterfly and pound flat between two sheets of parchment.
- Spread the filling evenly onto each piece, then roll tightly and secure with twine or toothpicks.
- Season the outside of each roll with salt, pepper, and a little olive oil.
- Place in the baking dish and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with extra thyme and serve.
Notes
- Use bacon as a substitute if pancetta is unavailable.
- Make ahead by stuffing the chicken and refrigerating until ready to bake.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed chicken breast
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 115mg