If you are looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome, this Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Tender chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy blend of ricotta, Parmesan, and fresh spinach, all baked under a blanket of rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, create an irresistible combination of textures and tastes. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and sophistication, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe plays a crucial role in layering flavors and making the dish truly special. The fresh spinach adds a vibrant green pop, the cheeses provide creaminess and depth, and the herbs and spices bring that extra touch of warmth and aroma.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The perfect lean protein base that stays juicy and tender when baked.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Adds a smooth, creamy texture that makes the filling dreamy and rich.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a salty, nutty flavor that complements the ricotta beautifully.
- 1 cup chopped spinach: Fresh and earthy, it brightens up the dish and adds nutritional goodness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Packs a subtle savory punch that enhances the overall profile.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that ties all the flavors together with Mediterranean flair.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance and highlight every ingredient.
- 1 cup marinara sauce: A vibrant tomato base that keeps the chicken moist and adds a tangy sweetness.
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides a gooey, golden topping that’s utterly irresistible when melted.
How to Make Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for cooking chicken evenly while allowing the cheeses to melt perfectly without drying out the meat.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Stuffing
In a bowl, combine your ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chopped spinach, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures every bite is bursting with flavor and creamy texture.
Step 3: Create a Pocket in Each Chicken Breast
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each chicken breast. Be sure not to cut all the way through. This pocket will hold the luscious ricotta mixture, keeping it sealed inside during baking for maximum flavor infusion.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken Breasts
Generously fill each pocket with the ricotta mixture. This is the heart of the recipe, as the creamy filling combines with the chicken during baking to create an unforgettable harmony of textures and tastes.
Step 5: Add Marinara and Mozzarella
Place the stuffed chicken breasts in a baking dish, then pour the marinara sauce evenly over them. Finally, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top to create that irresistible, bubbly, golden crust as it bakes.
Step 6: Bake Until Perfect
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and slightly browned. The marinade sauce will keep the meat moist and tender while the cheese topping adds melty goodness.
Step 7: Let It Rest Before Serving
Allow the chicken to rest a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, ensuring every bite is juicy and delicious.
How to Serve Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley make excellent garnishes for this dish, adding a burst of freshness and color that contrasts beautifully with the warm, cheesy chicken.
Side Dishes
Pair this Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic bread also make wonderful, comforting side options that soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the stuffed chicken breasts crosswise to reveal the colorful filling inside. Serve stacked for a visually impressive plate, or arrange on a large platter to share family-style. Drizzle some extra marinara sauce around the edges for an inviting look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store leftover baked ricotta chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen, making leftovers even tastier the next day.
Freezing
If you want to preserve this delicious dish longer, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw slowly in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This helps maintain the chicken’s juiciness and melts the cheese just right. You can also reheat in the microwave, but watch closely to avoid drying out the meat.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture from the spinach before mixing it with the cheeses to avoid a watery filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as your marinara sauce and seasonings do not contain gluten additives. Always check your labels to be certain.
Can I substitute the chicken breasts for thighs?
You can! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work well and often stay juicier, but you may need to increase the baking time slightly and check for doneness accordingly.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is mild and comforting in flavor. If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture or stirring some into the marinara sauce.
What should I do if the chicken breasts are very thick?
Gently pound them to an even thickness before cutting the pocket. This helps them cook evenly and makes stuffing easier.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe is truly a winner when you want an impressive yet straightforward meal that everyone will savor. Its creamy, cheesy filling combined with tender chicken and savory marinara sauce feels like a comforting hug on a plate. Don’t hesitate to give it a try and share the joy of this delightful dish with your loved ones!
Print
Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Baked Ricotta Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts stuffed with a creamy mixture of ricotta, Parmesan, and spinach, then topped with marinara and melted mozzarella. It delivers a comforting Italian-inspired meal that’s simple to prepare and packed with flavor, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Filling
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the stuffed chicken.
- Prepare Filling: In a bowl, thoroughly mix ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Stuff Chicken: Carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast, being cautious not to cut all the way through, then stuff each pocket generously with the ricotta cheese mixture.
- Arrange Chicken: Place the stuffed chicken breasts evenly in a baking dish, ensuring they have space and are stable for even cooking.
- Add Sauce and Cheese: Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed chicken breasts, then evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top for a melty, savory finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor, but frozen thawed and well-drained spinach can also be used.
- The ricotta filling can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to stuff the chicken.
- For a lower-fat option, use part-skim ricotta and reduced-fat mozzarella.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
