Description
Baked Ricotta Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with a cheesy ricotta mixture and baked to perfection. Easy to prepare and protein-packed, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional, for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Arrange in the baking dish.
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, mozzarella, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 4: Top the Chicken
Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
Step 5: Bake
Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the cheese is golden.
Step 6: Serve
Let rest for a few minutes. Optionally, top with marinara sauce and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
Notes
- Spinach Ricotta Chicken: Add 1/2 cup chopped, cooked spinach to the ricotta mixture.
- Pesto Ricotta Chicken: Mix in 2 tablespoons of pesto.
- Lemon Herb Ricotta Chicken: Add the zest of one lemon and 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme.
- Spicy Ricotta Chicken: Increase red pepper flakes or add hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Baked Ricotta Chicken, creamy chicken recipe, cheesy baked chicken, easy chicken dinner, protein-packed meal