Description
This Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese is an easy, flavorful dinner that brings together juicy chicken breasts, sweet honey, tart cranberries, and creamy ricotta cheese. Ready in just 40 minutes, this comforting baked dish offers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, complemented by optional crunchy pecans and fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Honey Cranberry Sauce
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Toppings and Garnish
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional for crunch)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and to add a subtle flavor base.
- Season Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them evenly with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme to infuse savory flavors.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for 2–3 minutes per side until they are lightly golden; this step locks in juices and develops flavor. Then transfer the seared chicken to the baking dish.
- Mix Honey Balsamic Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey and balsamic vinegar until well combined. Pour this sweet and tangy mixture evenly over the chicken breasts in the baking dish.
- Add Cranberries: Sprinkle fresh or frozen cranberries evenly on top of the chicken to add a bright, tart flavor that complements the honey glaze.
- Top with Ricotta: Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese over each chicken breast; this adds a creamy, mild richness to the dish as it bakes.
- Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the cranberries have softened and slightly caramelized.
- Optional Crunch: If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking to toast them and add crunchy texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and a fresh herbal note, and serve warm.
Notes
- Using fresh cranberries provides a vibrant tartness, but frozen cranberries work just as well; no need to thaw before using.
- Searing the chicken before baking helps to keep it juicy and adds a nice golden color.
- For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with toasted seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra sweetness, drizzle additional honey over the chicken before serving, if desired.
