This Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken is a tasty dish that’s simple to make! It features juicy chicken breasts topped with creamy ricotta cheese and herbs. Yum!
Seriously, who knew dinner could be this easy and delicious? I love serving it with a side of veggies or pasta. You’ll feel like a chef without all the stress! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: This is the star of the dish! It’s creamy and mild. If you’re looking for a lighter option, cottage cheese works too. Just blend it for a smoother consistency.
Chicken Breasts: I suggest using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking. Alternatively, you can use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you’re in need of a substitute, Pecorino Romano can be used for a sharper taste, or a dairy-free alternative works for lactose intolerance.
Herbs: Dried Italian seasoning gives lovely flavor. Feel free to customize these with fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil if you have them on hand!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
To keep your chicken juicy, it’s essential not to overcook it. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to preheat your oven fully before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer! Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after baking before cutting into it. This helps retain moisture.
These tips will ensure your chicken stays tender and delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking! 🍗
Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to bake, so you’re looking at a total of about 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them sear nicely and not steam. Generously season both sides with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
3. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, the rest of the Italian seasoning, and chopped parsley if you’re using it. Mix it all together until it’s smooth and creamy—this is the delicious topping!
4. Assemble the Dish:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the greased baking dish. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly on top of each chicken breast, making sure they’re all covered with that cheesy goodness.
5. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle a little olive oil over the tops of the chicken. This will help everything brown nicely.
6. Bake:
Now it’s time to bake! Place the baking dish in the oven and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through (at least 165°F internal temperature) and the ricotta topping is lightly golden.
7. Serve it Up:
If you like, you can serve the baked ricotta chicken over warm marinara sauce for a nice saucy dish. It adds a little zing!
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Don’t forget to garnish with fresh basil leaves right before serving for a pop of color and flavor.
Now, enjoy your creamy, cheesy, and super easy baked ricotta chicken! It’s sure to impress!
FAQs About Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will add extra flavor and juiciness to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few more minutes to cook through compared to breasts.
What Can I Substitute for Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese on hand, you can use cottage cheese (blended for a smoother texture), mascarpone, or even cream cheese as alternatives. Each will give a slightly different flavor but should work well in this recipe!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and top it with the ricotta mixture several hours in advance. Cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When ready, it may need a couple of extra minutes in the oven to reheat thoroughly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven until heated through. Enjoy again soon!
