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
Scale
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.
