This Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken is a cozy dish that combines tender chicken with creamy ricotta cheese. It’s topped with herbs for extra flavor that you’ll love!
I find this recipe super easy – just mix, bake, and your dinner is ready! It’s perfect for any night when you want something comforting and delicious without too much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you want to use thighs, they’ll add a richer flavor. You can also use tofu or a meat substitute for a plant-based option.
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cottage cheese, but blend it to smooth out the texture first. Cream cheese is another good alternative.
Parmesan and Mozzarella: These cheeses bring a nice flavor balance. You can swap Parmesan for nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version, and choose a vegan cheese for the mozzarella.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re out, garlic powder can work too. Use around 1/4 teaspoon per clove, but adjust to your taste!
Chicken Broth or White Wine: This keeps the chicken moist while it bakes. If you need a non-alcoholic option, stick with low-sodium vegetable broth.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken juicy and flavorful, follow these tips:
- **Sear the Chicken:** Searing adds a lovely color and flavor. Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the chicken.
- **Use Broth or Wine:** Adding broth or wine to the skillet helps keep the chicken moist during baking. Pour it around, and not over the cheese, for the best results.
- **Don’t Overcook:** Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) to avoid dry chicken. Remove from the oven as soon as it’s done!
With these tips and ingredient notes, you’re set for a delicious baked ricotta chicken that everyone will love!
Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 25-30 minutes to bake. Total cooking time is around 40 minutes, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is hot enough to cook your chicken perfectly.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper on both sides. This adds essential flavor before cooking.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. After searing, remove the chicken from the heat and set aside.
4. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, parsley, and lemon juice (if you’re using it). Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
5. Add the Ricotta Topping:
Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the top of each seared chicken breast. Make sure to cover them well so they’re deliciously creamy when cooked!
6. Add Broth or Wine:
Carefully pour the chicken broth or white wine into the skillet around the chicken (not over the cheese topping). This helps keep the chicken moist while it bakes.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the cheese topping is lightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve:
After baking, remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve the creamy baked ricotta chicken hot and enjoy every bite!
Delicious and comforting, this dish is sure to be a hit at your dinner table! Enjoy your creamy, flavorful baked ricotta chicken!
FAQ for Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely in the fridge before cooking. Thawing overnight is best, or you can use a microwave’s defrost function if you’re short on time. Searing frozen chicken can lead to uneven cooking and watery results.
What If I Don’t Have Ricotta Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese (blended for a smoother texture) or cream cheese for a richer flavor. Keep in mind that the taste will slightly vary, but it will still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave or warm in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and ricotta mixture in advance. Simply assemble everything up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Feel free to refer to these tips for a seamless cooking experience! Enjoy your cooking!
