This Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken is a winner! It’s juicy chicken breasts topped with creamy ricotta, herbs, and a sprinkle of cheese—so simple and satisfying!
Honestly, who doesn’t love cheese on their chicken? I like to serve it with a side of veggies or pasta. Quick dinner, happy family! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: This is the star! It adds creaminess. If you want a lighter option, you can use cottage cheese. Just blend it for a smoother texture.
Chicken Breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless for convenience. You can use chicken thighs for more flavor. They stay juicier, too!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a great salty flavor. If you’re out, you could use Pecorino Romano, which has a sharper taste.
Seasonings: Fresh parsley is nice, but you could swap it with basil or even spinach for a different twist. Use dried herbs if that’s what you have on hand!
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Stays Juicy While Baking?
Keeping chicken juicy is key! Here’s how to achieve that:
- Start with high-quality chicken that is well-pounded to an even thickness. This ensures even cooking.
- Drizzle olive oil generously. It not only helps with flavor but also locks in moisture.
- Don’t overcook! Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (74°C). Let it rest after baking; this helps the juices redistribute.
Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients
- 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 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Time Needed
This Quick and Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to bake. You’ll need a total of about 40 minutes to get the dish on the table!
Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures your chicken cooks evenly and comes out perfect!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry lightly using paper towels. This helps the chicken brown nicely in the oven. Then, place them in a baking dish. Drizzle some olive oil over the chicken, and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and well combined.
4. Spread the Cheese Mixture:
Spread the creamy ricotta mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, covering them well for that delicious cheesy goodness.
5. Add Some Heat (Optional):
If you enjoy a little spice, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over the top of the cheese mixture to give it a kick!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes. Your chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Baked Ricotta Chicken warm, alongside your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad. Dig in and enjoy this delightful meal!
FAQ About Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While ricotta, Parmesan, and mozzarella create a lovely creamy blend, you can experiment with other cheeses. Consider using goat cheese for a tangy flavor or cheddar for a sharper taste. Just ensure the total amount of cheese remains similar for best results!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Parsley?
No problem! You can substitute dried parsley in the recipe. Use 1 teaspoon of dried parsley for every tablespoon of fresh. If you have other fresh herbs like basil or thyme, they would make excellent alternatives too!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through. If the cheese seems a bit dry, adding a splash of broth or a drizzle of olive oil can help restore moisture!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
You can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it thoroughly first. The best way to do this is by placing the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. For a quicker method, seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour. Cooking from frozen can lead to uneven cooking.
