Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe

A Creamy, Flavorful Chicken Dish for Any Occasion

Baked Ricotta Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together juicy chicken breasts, creamy ricotta cheese, and a blend of herbs and seasonings. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, delivering a rich, cheesy flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy & Satisfying – The ricotta cheese mixture creates a luscious topping that keeps the chicken moist and tender.
• Easy to Prepare – Simple ingredients and a quick prep time make this an effortless weeknight meal.
• Versatile – You can customize the flavors with different herbs, spices, and add-ins.
• Healthy & Protein-Packed – This dish provides a great balance of protein and healthy fats.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Arrange them in the prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan, mozzarella, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 4: Top the Chicken

Spread an even layer of the ricotta mixture over each chicken breast, covering them completely.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is golden and slightly bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, top with marinara sauce and fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Spinach Ricotta Chicken – Mix ½ cup of chopped, cooked spinach into the ricotta mixture.
• Pesto Ricotta Chicken – Add 2 tablespoons of pesto for an herby twist.
• Lemon Herb Ricotta Chicken – Add the zest of one lemon and a teaspoon of fresh thyme.
• Spicy Ricotta Chicken – Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the ricotta mixture.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
• Total Time: 35–40 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Boneless, skinless thighs work well, but they may need a few extra minutes in the oven.

Is ricotta cheese healthy?

Yes, ricotta is a good source of protein and calcium, and it has a creamy texture with less fat than some other cheeses.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I serve with baked ricotta chicken?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, pasta, garlic bread, or a fresh salad.

Can I add other cheeses?

Yes! Try adding shredded cheddar, gouda, or feta for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this dish lower in fat?

Use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella to reduce the fat content.

Can I cook this in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes, checking for doneness with a thermometer.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or cream cheese can be used, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Using a meat thermometer ensures proper doneness. Also, covering the chicken with ricotta helps lock in moisture.

Conclusion

Baked Ricotta Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its simple preparation and rich, cheesy topping, it’s bound to become a household favorite. Try different variations and serving options to make it your own!

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