This creamy baked ricotta chicken is a real treat! Juicy chicken smothered in a cheesy ricotta mix makes for a comforting dish. Plus, it’s quick to make, perfect for busy nights!
I love how every bite is filled with creamy goodness. It pairs beautifully with pasta or a fresh salad. My secret? I sometimes sprinkle a bit of extra cheese on top just for fun! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish. They stay juicy and cook evenly. If you want to skip on meat, try using firm tofu instead for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to press the tofu beforehand!
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta is the star here, bringing creaminess. If you’re in a pinch, cottage cheese can work as a substitute, but you may want to blend it a bit for a smoother texture. Cream cheese also adds richness but is a bit tangier.
Cheeses: The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella gives great flavor and stretch. If you’re out of Parmesan, try Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. For mozzarella, any nice melting cheese like provolone will do.
Italian Seasoning: This blend ties the dish together. If you don’t have it, use dried oregano and basil instead. I love adding thyme or rosemary for extra aroma, especially if it’s summertime!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Baked Chicken?
Getting juicy chicken breasts takes a few key steps. Start by searing them in an oven-safe skillet. This locks in moisture and gives a nice golden crust. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet until it’s hot enough that a drop of water sizzles on contact.
- Add olive oil, then carefully place the chicken breasts in the pan without crowding.
- Sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown—you want that color for flavor!
- Make sure to bake the chicken afterwards to keep it tender. Check that the internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Letting it rest for a few minutes after baking can also help maintain juiciness. Enjoy your baking!
How to Make Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground 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 parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce (optional, for serving or layering)
Time Needed:
This dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to bake, so expect a total time of about 35 minutes before you can dig in. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s nice and hot for perfect baking.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and pepper. This will help enhance the flavor of the chicken.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Once done, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat). Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
5. Spread the Cheese Mixture:
Carefully spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly on top of the seared chicken breasts, covering them generously.
6. Add Marinara Sauce (Optional):
If you want to add extra flavor, spoon some marinara sauce around or on top of the chicken before baking. This adds a nice touch!
7. Bake the Chicken:
Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C) and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s done baking, take it out of the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like pasta, steamed veggies, or a crisp salad. Enjoy your rich and creamy baked ricotta chicken!
Can I Use Different Cheeses in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella work beautifully together, feel free to experiment. Options like goat cheese or cream cheese can add a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses will alter the taste and texture slightly.
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great substitute if you prefer dark meat. They’re juicy and flavorful. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a little longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or in an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth or extra sauce to keep the chicken moist while reheating.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and cheese mixture in advance! Assemble the dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to cook, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going into the oven cold.
