Baked Ricotta Chicken

Name: Baked Ricotta Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup marinara sauce; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: June 26, 2025

by Ezra

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal prep work, making it suitable for busy weeknights.
Flavor-Packed: The combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and marinara creates a deliciously rich flavor.
Versatile Meal: Pair it with pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal that suits any occasion.
Cheesy Goodness: With mozzarella baked on top, every bite is indulgently cheesy.
Crowd-Pleaser: This baked chicken is sure to impress guests at dinner parties or family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing Baked Ricotta Chicken is simple when you have the right tools on hand. The following items will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Baking dish
Mixing bowl
Knife
Cutting board
Toothpicks (optional)
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of the chicken.
Mixing bowl: A sturdy bowl makes it easy to mix the ricotta filling without any spills.
Knife: A sharp knife allows you to cut pockets in the chicken breasts safely and efficiently.

Ingredients

Succulent chicken breasts are stuffed with a creamy ricotta filling and topped with marinara and melted cheese, creating a delightful blend of flavors that’s perfect for any dinner occasion.

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

For the Filling

1 cup ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Seasoning

1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Toppings

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup marinara sauce

Optional Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional)

How to Make Baked Ricotta Chicken

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken cooks evenly throughout the baking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. This helps prevent the chicken from sticking while also adding flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix together:
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Half of the chopped basil

Step 4: Stuff the Chicken Breasts

Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast by slicing horizontally through the thickest part. Be careful not to cut all the way through. Stuff each breast generously with the ricotta mixture. Secure edges with toothpicks if necessary to keep the filling inside.

Step 5: Assemble in Baking Dish

Place the stuffed chicken breasts in your prepared baking dish.

Step 6: Add Marinara Sauce

Pour marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, spreading it evenly across all breasts.

Step 7: Sprinkle Cheese

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the marinara sauce. This will create a beautiful cheesy layer as it bakes.

Step 8: Optional Balsamic Drizzle

Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the dish for an extra burst of flavor if desired.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.

Step 10: Rest Before Serving

Remove from oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute within the chicken.

Step 11: Garnish

Sprinkle remaining fresh basil over each piece before serving for a touch of freshness.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Baked Ricotta Chicken!

How to Serve Baked Ricotta Chicken

Baked Ricotta Chicken is a flavorful dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Salad

Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
Caprese Salad: Sliced fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a refreshing touch.

With Pasta

Garlic Butter Pasta: Simple spaghetti tossed in garlic butter for a rich flavor that complements the chicken.
Pesto Penne: Penne pasta mixed with vibrant basil pesto for an aromatic pairing.

With Vegetables

Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus roasted with olive oil and garlic to add a healthy crunch.
Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with lemon for a bright and zesty side.

With Bread

Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted bread infused with garlic butter, perfect for soaking up marinara sauce.
Focaccia: Soft Italian bread seasoned with herbs, excellent for mopping up any remaining sauce.

How to Perfect Baked Ricotta Chicken

Perfecting your Baked Ricotta Chicken can take this dish to the next level. Here are some tips to ensure your chicken is delicious every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ricotta and herbs enhance the flavors significantly compared to packaged alternatives.
Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overfill the chicken breasts; this helps prevent spillage and ensures even cooking.
Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Let It Rest: Allowing the chicken to rest for 5 minutes after baking helps retain juices, making it more succulent.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Ricotta Chicken

Pairing Baked Ricotta Chicken with complementary side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options:

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting side that balances the richness of the chicken.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while being simple to prepare.
Quinoa Pilaf: Fluffy quinoa mixed with herbs offers a nutty flavor that goes well with stuffed chicken.
Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini sautéed lightly provides a low-carb option that’s fresh and satisfying.
Wild Rice Blend: A mix of wild rice adds texture and earthy flavors to complement your main dish.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until charred makes a delightful summer side that pairs beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Ricotta Chicken, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Ignoring the seasoning: Not adding enough salt or pepper can make your chicken bland. Always taste your filling and adjust seasonings before stuffing.
Overstuffing the chicken: Stuffing too much filling into each breast can cause them to burst during cooking. Keep the filling balanced to ensure even cooking.
Skipping the resting period: Cutting into the chicken immediately after baking can let juices escape, leading to dry meat. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Using cold chicken: Starting with cold chicken can lead to uneven cooking. Let your chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before preparing it.
Not checking doneness: Relying solely on time can be misleading. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Baked Ricotta Chicken in an airtight container.
It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Ricotta Chicken

Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag; it will keep well for up to 3 months.

Reheating Baked Ricotta Chicken

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm throughout.
Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, then cover and cook for about 5-7 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Baked Ricotta Chicken:

Can I use other cheeses instead of ricotta?

Yes! Cream cheese or goat cheese can be great substitutes if you’re looking for different flavors.

What side dishes pair well with Baked Ricotta Chicken?

This dish goes well with garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

How do I know when my chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare it up to the baking stage and store it in the fridge overnight. Bake it just before serving.

Final Thoughts

Baked Ricotta Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it by adding your favorite herbs or using different sauces. Try this delightful recipe today, and enjoy a wonderful blend of flavors that everyone will love!

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