Make the ultimate Chicken Rosa Maria recipe at home with juicy stuffed chicken, prosciutto, fontina cheese, and a rich creamy basil sauce—easy and restaurant-quality.
Introduction: What Makes Chicken Rosa Maria So Special
Chicken Rosa Maria is a beloved Italian-American classic known for its rich, comforting flavors and elegant presentation.
This dish features tender chicken breasts stuffed with prosciutto and melted fontina cheese, then finished with a luxurious creamy basil-parmesan sauce.
It’s often associated with restaurant-quality dining, but the truth is, you can prepare an equally impressive version in your own kitchen.
This Chicken Rosa Maria recipe is designed to be approachable while delivering authentic flavor. With the right technique and quality ingredients, you’ll achieve a dish that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.
Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe consistently delivers outstanding results.
Why This Chicken Rosa Maria Recipe Works
What makes this Chicken Rosa Maria recipe truly reliable is the balance of technique and flavor.
- Pan-searing locks in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy.
- Prosciutto adds savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Fontina cheese melts smoothly, creating a creamy interior.
- The basil cream sauce ties everything together, adding richness and aroma.
Unlike many stuffed chicken recipes that turn dry or bland, this method ensures perfect texture and bold flavor in every bite.
Ingredients for Chicken Rosa Maria Recipe
Using high-quality ingredients is key to achieving restaurant-level results.
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | Main protein |
| Prosciutto slices | Salty, savory filling |
| Fontina cheese (sliced) | Creamy meltable cheese |
| Olive oil | For searing |
| Salt & black pepper | Seasoning |
Creamy Basil Sauce Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Heavy cream | Sauce base |
| Chicken broth | Balances richness |
| Garlic (minced) | Aromatic flavor |
| Grated parmesan cheese | Nutty depth |
| Fresh basil (chopped) | Fresh finish |
Fontina cheese is strongly recommended for its superior melting quality, but provolone can be used as a substitute if needed.
How to Make Chicken Rosa Maria—Step-by-Step
Follow these steps carefully for the best results.
1. Prepare the Chicken
Using a sharp knife, slice each chicken breast horizontally to form a pocket. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Stuff the Chicken
Line the inside of each pocket with prosciutto, then add slices of fontina cheese. Avoid overstuffing to prevent leakage during cooking.
3. Sear for Flavor
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. Bake Until Perfectly Cooked
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Make the Creamy Basil Sauce
Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same pan, sauté minced garlic briefly. Add chicken broth and heavy cream, simmering until slightly thickened. Stir in parmesan cheese and basil.
6. Serve
Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon the sauce generously over the top.
This method guarantees a tender, juicy Chicken Rosa Maria recipe with a smooth, well-balanced sauce.
Chef Tips for Perfect Chicken Rosa Maria
- Do not overcook the chicken, as stuffed breasts dry out quickly.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
- Simmer the sauce gently to avoid curdling.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for a smoother texture.
These small details elevate the final dish significantly.
Variations of Chicken Rosa Maria Recipe
This classic recipe can be adapted easily without losing its identity.
- Grilled Chicken Rosa Maria: Grill the chicken after stuffing, then finish in the oven.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve with sautéed spinach or zucchini instead of pasta.
- Oven-Only Method: Skip searing and bake covered, then uncover to brown.
Each version preserves the essence of the original Chicken Rosa Maria recipe.
What to Serve with Chicken Rosa Maria
Because this dish is rich and creamy, simple sides work best.
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Garlic mashed potatoes | Absorbs the sauce |
| Buttered pasta or fettuccine | Classic pairing |
| Steamed asparagus | Adds freshness |
| Crusty Italian bread | Perfect for sauce |
For wine, Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the cream-based sauce beautifully.
Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream.
- You can stuff the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and cook when ready.
Freezing is not recommended with the sauce, as cream-based sauces can separate.
FAQs About Chicken Rosa Maria Recipe
What is Chicken Rosa Maria made of?
Chicken Rosa Maria is made with stuffed chicken breasts filled with prosciutto and cheese, served with a creamy basil sauce.
Can I use mozzarella instead of fontina?
Yes, but fontina melts more smoothly, making it the preferred choice.
Is Chicken Rosa Maria spicy?
No, this Chicken Rosa Maria recipe is rich and savory, not spicy.
Can I make Chicken Rosa Maria ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken ahead, but cook it fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Rosa Maria recipe is the perfect combination of comfort, elegance, and simplicity. With juicy chicken, savory prosciutto, melted cheese, and a creamy basil sauce, it delivers restaurant-quality results without unnecessary complexity.
Once you make it at home, it’s likely to become a regular feature in your dinner rotation.
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
