Baked Ricotta Chicken Dish is a delightful culinary creation that brings together the creamy richness of ricotta cheese and the tender juiciness of chicken, making it a favorite in many households. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a comforting experience that warms the heart. Originating from Italian cuisine, ricotta has been a staple ingredient for centuries, often used in various savory and sweet dishes. The combination of baked chicken and ricotta creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is both satisfying and nourishing.

People love this Baked Ricotta Chicken Dish for its simplicity and convenience, as it can be prepared in just a few easy steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The creamy ricotta melts beautifully, enveloping the chicken in a luscious sauce that pairs wonderfully with a side of vegetables or pasta. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends, leaving them asking for seconds!

Ingredients:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup marinara sauce
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Olive oil for drizzling

Preparing the Chicken

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking the chicken while keeping it juicy and tender. 2. Take the chicken breasts and place them on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice a pocket into each chicken breast. Make sure not to cut all the way through; you want to create a nice little pouch to hold the ricotta filling. 3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. The mixture should be creamy and slightly thick.

Stuffing the Chicken

4. Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each chicken breast pocket with the ricotta mixture. Don’t be shy; pack it in there! You want each bite to be bursting with flavor. 5. Once all the chicken breasts are stuffed, place them in a greased baking dish. I like to drizzle a little olive oil over the top of each chicken breast to help them brown nicely in the oven.

Preparing the Marinara Sauce

6. In a small saucepan, heat the marinara sauce over medium heat. You can use store-bought sauce or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. If you’re using store-bought, I recommend adding a pinch of salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of dried herbs to enhance the flavor. 7. Once the sauce is heated through, pour it evenly over the stuffed chicken breasts in the baking dish. This will keep the chicken moist and add an extra layer of flavor.

Baking the Chicken

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This helps to trap steam and keeps the chicken from drying out while it bakes. 9. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The cheese should be bubbly and slightly golden. 10. If you want a little extra color on top, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Serving the Dish

11. Once the chicken is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender. 12. To serve, spoon some of the marinara sauce from the baking dish over each chicken breast. If you have fresh basil leaves, sprinkle them on top for a pop of color and freshness. 13. I love to serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad. The flavors of the ricotta and marinara pair beautifully with a crisp salad or warm, crusty bread.

Storing Leftovers

14. If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. 15. To reheat, simply place the chicken in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be careful not to overcook it, as that can dry out the chicken.

Tips for Success

16. If you want to add some extra flavor to the ricotta filling, consider mixing in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or even some cooked and crumbled Italian sausage. The possibilities are endless! 17. For a lighter version, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts, or even try this recipe with turkey cutlets. Just adjust the cooking time as needed. 18.

Conclusion:

In summary, this Baked Ricotta Chicken Dish is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with minimal effort and maximum flavor. The creamy ricotta paired with tender chicken creates a delightful harmony that is sure to impress your family and friends. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to suit your taste. Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an extra burst of flavor, or toss in some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a colorful twist. Serving this dish alongside a simple green salad or some roasted vegetables will round out your meal beautifully. You could even serve it over a bed of pasta or quinoa for a heartier option. I encourage you to give this Baked Ricotta Chicken a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself. Don’t forget to share your cooking adventures and any variations you come up with! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Happy cooking! Print