Name: Chicken Rollatini Parmesan
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 8 pieces thin chicken cutlets (3 oz each); 1/2 cup whole wheat Italian seasoned breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (divided); 6 tablespoons egg whites or egg beaters; 5 oz frozen spinach (squeezed dry of any liquid); 6 tablespoons part-skim ricotta cheese; 6 oz part-skim mozzarella (shredded (I used Polly-O)); Olive oil non-stick spray; 1 cup pomodoro sauce or your favorite marinara sauce; Salt and pepper (to taste)

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There’s something magical about the cozy, comforting aroma of a homemade meal wafting through the kitchen, and Chicken Rollatini Parmesan is no exception. This delightful dish, with its tender chicken cutlets rolled around a creamy filling, smothered in rich marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese, is sure to impress anyone who is lucky enough to enjoy it. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe combines the best elements of Italian cuisine into a dish that’s simple to make yet sophisticated in flavor.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Chicken Rollatini Parmesan is not just another chicken recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. With thin chicken cutlets that are easy to roll and a filling that brings together the earthy taste of spinach and the creaminess of ricotta, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying. With whole wheat breadcrumbs and part-skim cheeses, it also caters to a healthier lifestyle without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredient Checklist

To create this mouthwatering Chicken Rollatini Parmesan, gather the following ingredients:

8 thin chicken cutlets, 3 oz each
1/2 cup whole wheat Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese, divided
6 tablespoons egg whites or egg beaters
5 oz frozen spinach, squeezed dry of any liquid
6 tablespoons part-skim ricotta cheese
6 oz part-skim mozzarella, shredded (I used Polly-O)
Olive oil non-stick spray
1 cup pomodoro sauce or your favorite marinara sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you start cooking, make sure you have these tools on hand:

Baking dish: A large dish to hold the chicken rollatini while they bake.
Mixing bowls: For combining the filling and for the breadcrumbs.
Meat mallet or rolling pin: To flatten the chicken cutlets for easier rolling.
Whisk: For blending egg whites or egg beaters.
Spatula: To help place the rollatini in the baking dish.

Method: Chicken Rollatini Parmesan

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a baking dish with olive oil non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the squeezed dry spinach, part-skim ricotta cheese, 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Flatten the Chicken Cutlets

Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, gently pound each chicken cutlet to an even thickness. This step ensures that they roll easily and cook evenly.

Step 4: Assemble the Rollatini

On each chicken cutlet, spread a generous spoonful of the spinach and ricotta mixture. Carefully roll the cutlet from one end to the other, securing the filling inside. Repeat with all cutlets.

Step 5: Dredge in Breadcrumbs

In a separate bowl, combine the whole wheat breadcrumbs with the remaining 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese. Dip each chicken rollatini into the egg whites or egg beaters, then coat them evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 6: Place in Baking Dish

Arrange the coated rollatini in the prepared baking dish, seam side down. Once all are placed, pour the pomodoro sauce evenly over the top of the chicken.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese over the sauce, ensuring a generous layer for a gooey, melty finish.

Step 8: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil (to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly) and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Adaptations for Special Diets

This Chicken Rollatini Parmesan recipe can easily be adapted to fit various dietary needs:

Gluten-Free: Substitute whole wheat breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and use the filling as a stuffing for eggplant or zucchini rolls.
Low-Carb: Use thin slices of zucchini or eggplant instead of chicken cutlets for a low-carb version.
Dairy-Free: Replace the ricotta and mozzarella with dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Slip-Ups to Skip

To ensure your Chicken Rollatini Parmesan turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Don’t skip squeezing the spinach dry; excess moisture can make the filling watery.
Ensure the chicken cutlets are thin enough to roll; if they’re too thick, they may not cook through.
Be careful not to overfill the cutlets; a little filling goes a long way!
Watch the baking time closely; overbaking can dry out the chicken.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, Chicken Rollatini Parmesan is freezer-friendly!

Assemble the rollatini and place them in an airtight container before baking. You can freeze them for up to 3 months.
When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Cooked rollatini can also be frozen. Just let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

Quick Q&A

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! If you prefer fresh spinach, just cook it down until wilted, then squeeze out the excess moisture before mixing it into the filling.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

The best way to reheat Chicken Rollatini Parmesan is in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 15-20 minutes.

Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Yes! Thin cuts of turkey or pork can also work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like a kick of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the ricotta filling or using a spicy marinara sauce.

See You at the Table

Now that you have the step-by-step guide to creating a delicious Chicken Rollatini Parmesan, it’s time to gather your loved ones around the table. This dish is perfect for sharing, and the smiles around the dinner table will be the ultimate reward for your efforts. Serve it with a side of whole grain pasta, a fresh salad, or some crusty bread for a complete meal that’s both comforting and nourishing. Enjoy every bite of this Italian-inspired delight!