Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe

Introduction

This easy baked ricotta chicken recipe is a creamy, cheesy weeknight winner that comes together quickly and bakes to perfection. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a flavorful comfort meal the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Step 2: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and place them in the prepared baking dish.
3. Step 3: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley if using. Stir until smooth.
4. Step 4: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, covering them generously.
5. Step 5: Drizzle the olive oil over the ricotta-topped chicken to help create a golden, bubbly texture during baking.
6. Step 6: Bake for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the topping is bubbly. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Step 7: If desired, warm marinara sauce while the chicken bakes and serve it alongside or spooned over the chicken.
8. Step 8: Serve the baked ricotta chicken hot, paired with pasta, vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for a subtle kick.
• Substitute fresh herbs such as basil or thyme if you don’t have dried Italian seasoning.
• Try using part-skim ricotta for a lighter version without losing creaminess.
• To keep chicken moist, avoid overbaking and check the internal temperature early.

Storage

Store leftover baked ricotta chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to keep the cheese creamy and chicken tender.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require a few extra minutes of baking to cook through due to higher fat content.

Is marinara sauce necessary for this recipe?

No, the marinara sauce is optional. The ricotta topping provides plenty of flavor, but marinara adds a nice tomato element if you like.

Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 110 reviews

This Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken recipe features tender boneless chicken breasts topped with a creamy, flavorful ricotta and Parmesan cheese mixture, baked to perfection for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. Enhanced with garlic, Italian seasoning, and a drizzle of olive oil, this dish is delicious on its own or served with marinara sauce and your favorite sides.

• Author: Caleb
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Ricotta Mixture

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Additional Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to promote browning. Place them in the prepared baking dish.
3. Mix the Ricotta Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley if using. Stir well until creamy and fully incorporated.
4. Spread the Ricotta Mixture: Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring each piece is well covered for full flavor.
5. Add Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the ricotta-topped chicken to promote golden baking and a nice texture.
6. Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and the ricotta topping is bubbly. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Optional Marinara Sauce: While baking, warm the marinara sauce if desired. Serve it spooned over the baked chicken or on the side.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the baked ricotta chicken hot with your choice of pasta, vegetables, or salad for a delightful meal.

Notes

• Patting the chicken dry before baking helps achieve a better sear and browning.
• Fresh parsley is optional but adds a nice freshness and color contrast to the dish.
• Using a meat thermometer ensures the chicken is safely cooked to the right temperature.
• Marinara sauce adds a flavorful, tangy accompaniment but can be omitted for a lighter dish.
• Leftovers keep well refrigerated for 2-3 days and can be reheated gently in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: baked chicken, ricotta chicken, easy chicken dinner, creamy chicken recipe, Italian chicken, weeknight dinner