Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe
This Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts topped with a creamy ricotta and Parmesan mixture seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, baked to perfection for a delicious, comforting meal ready in under 40 minutes.
- Author: Marco
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Ricotta Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Optional for Serving
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning, then place them in the prepared baking dish.
- Mix the Ricotta Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chopped parsley (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Spread the Ricotta Mixture: Evenly spread the ricotta mixture over the tops of each chicken breast, ensuring they are generously covered for maximum flavor.
- Add Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the ricotta-topped chicken breasts to promote golden baking and create a lovely texture.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the ricotta topping is bubbly and lightly golden.
- Optional Marinara Sauce: While the chicken bakes, warm the marinara sauce if using. Serve it over the chicken or on the side as desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the baked ricotta chicken hot alongside pasta, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry before baking helps achieve better browning and texture.
- Using fresh parsley adds a bright flavor, but it can be omitted if unavailable.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- The marinara sauce is optional but pairs well to add tangy contrast to the creamy topping.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: baked ricotta chicken, chicken breast recipe, easy chicken dinner, creamy chicken, Italian chicken recipe