This Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is topped with creamy ricotta and melty cheese, making it super comforting. It’s simple and perfect for a cozy dinner!
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up this dish. Just mix the ricotta, spread it on chicken, add cheese, and bake. Dinner is on the table in no time—who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese is crucial for that rich texture. If you can’t find ricotta, cottage cheese makes a good substitute when blended until smooth.
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are the best for this recipe to keep things tender and juicy. If you’re looking for an alternative, consider using chicken thighs—they add more flavor!
Cheeses: Mozzarella melts well, giving a nice stretchy texture. Parmesan adds a salty punch. If you don’t have them, try any other melting cheese like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture to the chicken. You can use any cooking oil here—avocado oil or melted butter work nicely too.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Not Overcooked?
The key to juicy chicken is cooking it just right. Here’s how:
- First, use a meat thermometer! Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Bake the chicken covered with the ricotta mixture, so moisture stays in. If you’re broiling, keep a close eye to avoid drying it out.
- Let it rest for a few minutes after baking—it allows the juices to redistribute within the chicken, making every bite tender.
Try these tips, and you should have perfect, juicy baked ricotta chicken every time!
Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken with Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme mix)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes of preparation time and then 25-30 minutes in the oven. With a little patience for the baking, you’ll have a cheesy, comforting meal on the table in less than an hour!
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 bake your chicken perfectly.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. This will help prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
3. Mix the Ricotta Filling:
In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, half of the mozzarella, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
4. Season the Chicken:
Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds flavor to your chicken as it cooks. Place the seasoned chicken in the prepared baking dish.
5. Add the Ricotta Mixture:
Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast. Make sure to cover the chicken well for maximum flavor!
6. Top with Mozzarella:
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the ricotta layer. This will create a wonderfully gooey top as it bakes.
7. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
For extra moisture and flavor, drizzle a little more olive oil over the chicken breasts. This is optional but recommended for a juicy result.
8. Bake the Chicken:
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through and the top to be golden and bubbly.
9. Broil for a Crunchy Top:
If you want a crispy golden top, you can broil the chicken for an additional 2-3 minutes. Just keep a close eye on it to avoid burning!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a minute. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if you like, and serve hot. Enjoy your creamy and cheesy baked ricotta chicken!
FAQ About Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Can I Use Different Cheeses in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan are recommended for their flavors and textures, feel free to substitute other cheeses like cream cheese for richness or cheddar for a sharp taste. Just ensure that any cheese you use melts well!
Can I Make This Recipe with Frozen Chicken?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw the chicken completely in the fridge overnight before cooking to ensure even baking. If you’re in a pinch, you can also cook it from frozen, but it will take longer and may not cook evenly.
How Can I Store Leftover Baked Ricotta Chicken?
To store leftovers, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and ricotta mixture ahead of time and assemble it in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge!
