This creamy baked ricotta chicken is a delight! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with a rich ricotta mix, baked until golden and bubbly. It’s like a cozy hug on your plate!
Honestly, who doesn’t love cheese? I like to serve it with a side of veggies or pasta for a complete meal. It’s an easy way to impress guests—while you enjoy the cheesy goodness too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this dish. For a juicier option, you can use thighs instead. They add more flavor but require a longer cooking time. You can also use turkey if you’re looking for a leaner option.
Ricotta Cheese: This is the star of the dish! If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese can be a good substitute, just blend it until smooth. For a lighter version, try using low-fat ricotta or even cream cheese mixed with a bit of milk.
Parmesan and Mozzarella: Parmesan adds a nice saltiness. If it’s not available, Pecorino Romano works well too. You can switch mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.
Marinara Sauce: Feel free to use homemade or store-bought marinara. If you’re in a pinch, any tomato-based sauce works, such as pizza sauce or even salsa for a twist!
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Getting the chicken just right is crucial for this recipe. Here’s how to ensure it’s cooked perfectly:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the chicken.
- Don’t skip the searing step. It locks in juices and adds flavor. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the chicken.
- If your chicken is particularly thick, consider slicing it in half horizontally to ensure even cooking.
By following these tips, you’ll have delicious and tender chicken every time! Enjoy cooking!
Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend about 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for your chicken once you’ve assembled everything.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. This simple step is key to enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large ovenproof skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Then, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, chopped basil (if you’re using it), and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little kick!). Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.
5. Assemble the Dish:
Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over each seared chicken breast. Then, spoon the creamy ricotta mixture evenly over the top of each piece of chicken. It’s going to look delicious!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should read 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and lightly golden.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, garnish your baked ricotta chicken with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve warm with your favorite side dish, whether it’s pasta, roasted veggies, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy baked ricotta chicken! It’s bound to be a hit!
FAQ for Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you don’t have ricotta, cottage cheese blended to a smooth consistency is a great substitute. For the Parmesan, you can use Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses you have on hand!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! To make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the chicken and the ricotta mixture and assemble everything in the skillet. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just increase the cooking time slightly to ensure everything is heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm in the oven until heated through. Adding a splash of marinara sauce while reheating can help keep it moist!
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy baked ricotta chicken pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over pasta, rice, or with a side of roasted vegetables. A simple salad will add a nice touch and balance the richness of the dish!
