This Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken is a cozy dish that’s perfect for dinner. Juicy chicken breasts are smothered in a delicious ricotta cheese mix, then baked until bubbly!
I love how this dish adds a gourmet touch without being fussy. Just pop it in the oven and let it do its thing while you enjoy some peace and quiet. Who doesn’t like that? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy ingredient is essential for that luscious texture. If you can’t find ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as a substitute, though it will change the flavor slightly.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are juicy and cook quickly. You can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor or use tofu for a vegetarian option.
Parmesan and Mozzarella: Both cheeses add a wonderful taste. You can swap Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. For mozzarella, fontina can work well if you’re looking for something a little different.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs enhances the flavor. If you don’t have this mix, using individual herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil will work just fine!
How do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy?
The key to juicy chicken is not overcooking it. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C). Also, let it rest after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, so you get tender chicken every time!
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning, which helps it brown better.
- Don’t forget to drizzle olive oil on top; this creates a lovely crust.
- Keep an eye on the baking time – ovens can vary, so start checking a bit early.
Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 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)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes of baking time. Adding a bit of resting time after baking, you can have this creamy dish on your table in about 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready when you put the chicken in!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the 4 chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the seasonings stick better. Season both sides with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning.
3. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until it’s creamy and well blended.
4. Assemble in a Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil so the chicken doesn’t stick. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the dish, leaving some space in between each one.
5. Spread the Ricotta Mixture:
Now, take your creamy ricotta mixture and spread it evenly over the top of each chicken breast, ensuring they’re fully covered for maximum flavor and creaminess.
6. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
To help achieve that golden crust, drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top of the ricotta-topped chicken.
7. Bake:
Pop the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. The chicken should be cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), with a lovely golden and bubbly top.
8. Optional Broiling:
If you want an extra touch of browning, turn on the broiler for 2-3 minutes at the end. Keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn!
9. Rest and Garnish:
Once baked, take the chicken out and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a pop of color and flavor.
10. Serve:
Serve the creamy baked ricotta chicken hot. You can pair it with warmed marinara sauce and your favorite side dish, such as pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to complete your meal.
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy baked ricotta chicken—it’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Can I Substitute Ricotta Cheese?
Absolutely! If you can’t find ricotta, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese as a substitute. Just keep in mind that this will slightly change the flavor and texture of the dish.
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or even skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through, ensuring the chicken doesn’t dry out.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the chicken and ricotta mixture in advance. Just cover the baking dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when you’re ready to eat, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
