Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ricotta Cheese: This is the star of the dish! For a lighter option, try cottage cheese, but it will have a different texture. Aim for full-fat ricotta for creaminess, or use part-skim for a healthier choice.

Cheeses: Parmesan brings a wonderful depth of flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano works nicely as a substitute. Mozzarella adds that stretchy goodness; you can swap it for provolone if you want a sharper flavor.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep it easy and healthy. Thighs are a tasty alternative if you prefer more flavor and juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Herbs: Fresh basil is fantastic, but if you don’t have it, Italian seasoning does the trick. Dried herbs can be used, too; just use about a third of the amount called for fresh.

How Do I Ensure My Chicken Stays Juicy?

Keeping the chicken moist is key. Start with patting it dry to help the seasoning stick, then season thoroughly. Baking uncovered allows the cheese topping to crisp up, but you can cover with foil for a bit if you’re worried about dryness.

• Make sure not to overcook; check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer around 25 minutes.
• Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute before slicing or serving.

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own! Enjoy your meal!

Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Cooking:

• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. Quick and easy for a delicious dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, get a baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

Take your chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice seasoning on the chicken. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

3. Make the Ricotta Mixture:

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, fresh basil, parsley, and half of the shredded mozzarella. Mix it all together until it’s well combined and creamy.

4. Assemble the Dish:

Place the seasoned chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish. Spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture over the top of each chicken breast, making sure to cover them well.

5. Add More Cheese:

Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella over the top of the ricotta layer. This will create a delicious crispy topping once baked!

6. Drizzle with Olive Oil:

For added flavor, lightly drizzle olive oil over the chicken and cheesy layers before baking.

7. Bake the Chicken:

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.

8. Serve:

For an extra touch, serve the chicken with warmed marinara sauce on the side or spooned over the top. It’s a lovely complement to the cheesy flavors!

9. Garnish and Enjoy:

Before serving, add some extra fresh basil or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Dive into your creamy, cheesy baked ricotta chicken and enjoy!

FAQ for Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken

Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?

Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are recommended for ease and even cooking, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just make sure to adjust the baking time slightly if needed, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook.

What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta on hand, cottage cheese can be a good substitute, though it will provide a different texture. For a similar consistency, blend the cottage cheese until smooth before mixing it with the other ingredients.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, do so gently in the microwave or in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, being careful not to dry it out.

Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?

Yes, you can assemble the chicken and the ricotta mixture a day in advance. Simply cover the baking dish and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, just pop it in the oven; it may need a few extra minutes to cook through if it’s cold from the fridge.