| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 35 mins | Difficulty: Moderate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 390 | 12g | 5g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 8g | 2g | 40g | 0.9g |
Every cook has a recipe they hold dear to their heart. For me, the dish that always brings a smile to my face is the Stuffed Chicken Breast with Miner’s Lettuce and Ricotta. Despite my adoration for New England seafood, this chicken dish with its delicate balance of flavors and beautiful presentation, continues to be a standout in my kitchen.
The Inspiration Behind the Dish
Originating from the softer side of my culinary journey, this recipe is a nod to the time when my sweet daughters, Erin and Samantha, were newly exploring the world of flavors. I created this recipe wanting to offer them not just a dish, but an experience of diverse taste profiles.
The Health Factor
Moreover, the Stuffed Chicken Breast with Miner’s Lettuce and Ricotta isn’t just tasty – it’s good for you too! Stuffed with Miner’s lettuce, this leafy green is high in vitamin C and has a captivating fresh taste that is perfect for this recipe. It pairs wonderfully with the mild and creamy texture of ricotta, which is a powerhouse of calcium and essential amino acids. Not to mention, lean chicken breasts provide ample amount of protein needed for a balanced meal.
The addition of dried fruits provides a burst of sweetness and offers a range of benefits from improved digestive health to a boost in essential minerals like potassium and iron. Finally, a hint of zesty freshness from the lemon adds to the appeal and offers benefits of Vitamin C too!
Goes Great With…
If you are wondering what dishes complement this recipe, a light Couscous salad or a side of grilled Asparagus will work like charm, echoing the balance of flavors in our main dish. A glass of your favorite white wine, perhaps something like a Chardonnay, would also go perfectly, echoing the optional splash in the recipe itself.
The Stuffed Chicken Breast with Miner’s Lettuce and Ricotta is much more than a recipe, it’s a collection of cherished memories, and a delicious way to keep your family’s health right on track, which is why I absolutely love it!
What You’ll Need
- 6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 2 cups of Miner’s lettuce
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup of chopped dried fruits (such as apricots, raisins, cranberries)
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, parsley)
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup of white wine (optional)
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth
Method
Step One
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and using a meat mallet, pound them until they’re about a 1/4 inch thick.
Step Two
In a medium skillet, heat the tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the miner’s lettuce and cook until it wilts, which should take about four to five minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Step Three
In a medium bowl, combine the wilted miner’s lettuce with the ricotta cheese, chopped dried fruits, chopped herbs, lemon zest. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Mix until everything is combined.
Step Four
Place a small amount of the ricotta mixture onto the center of each flattened chicken breast. Roll the chicken around the filling, making sure to tuck in the ends. Secure each chicken breast with toothpicks if needed.
Step Five
In an oven-safe skillet, over medium-high heat, place the stuffed chicken breasts, seam side down, and sear until golden brown. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Turn them over and sear the other side.
Step Six
If using, pour the white wine into the skillet and let it simmer until it reduces by half. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Put the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
Step Seven
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before removing the toothpicks. Serve the stuffed chicken breasts hot with the sauce from the skillet drizzled over the top. Enjoy your Stuffed Chicken Breast with Miner’s Lettuce and Ricotta!
