This Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken is a tasty dish that features juicy chicken smothered with creamy ricotta cheese and herbs. It’s simple to make and super flavorful!
I love how quick this meal comes together. Just pop it in the oven, and you can relax while it bakes. Plus, it makes dinner feel fancy without too much effort! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: This gives the dish its creamy base. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can try using tofu blended until smooth or a cashew cream for a similar texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan adds a sharp flavor. Pecorino Romano works well as a substitute. For a dairy-free version, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor if you’re looking to keep it plant-based.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are classic for this recipe. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be juicier and more flavorful. They will also work well with the stuffing!
Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs is easy to find but feel free to mix your own with basil, oregano, and thyme if that’s what you have. Fresh herbs will give a brighter flavor, so consider using those if you can.
How Do You Stuff Chicken Breasts Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing chicken breasts can be tricky, but with the right technique, it can be easy! Here’s how to do it:
- Make a pocket: Use a sharp knife to gently slice into the thickest part of the chicken breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Use a spoon: Take a spoon and fill the pocket with your ricotta mixture. Don’t overstuff, as it can leak out during cooking.
- Secure it: If you’re worried about the stuffing spilling out, you can use toothpicks to close the opening.
These tips can help you create a delicious stuffed chicken without too much fuss. Happy cooking!
Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough to cook your chicken evenly.
2. Prepare the Ricotta Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little spice). Mix everything together until it’s creamy and well blended. This will be the delicious filling for your chicken!
3. Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into each chicken breast. Make sure not to cut all the way through. Take the creamy ricotta mixture and stuff each chicken breast pocket, dividing the filling evenly. Don’t worry if some spills out; it’s going to be tasty!
4. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This adds flavor and a nice color to the chicken!
5. Bake the Chicken:
After searing, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the chicken for about 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Let it Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. This helps keep the juices in. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pretty finish.
7. Enjoy:
Serve your creamy, flavorful Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken warm with your favorite side dishes like roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or pasta. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Happy cooking! 🍽️
FAQ About Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need to thaw them first! Thaw frozen chicken breasts overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing. Ensure the chicken is fully thawed before cutting pockets and stuffing.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to cook, bake as instructed, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Can I Use Instead of Ricotta Cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can substitute with cream cheese, cottage cheese, or even Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Just make sure to blend them well for a creamy consistency. Adjust the seasonings to taste if you’re using a substitute!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
