This Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken is a winner! Juicy chicken breasts topped with creamy ricotta cheese and herbs make for a tasty dish that’s simple to whip up.
You can serve it with veggies or pasta for a complete meal. I love how it looks fancy but takes just minutes to prepare. Your friends will think you’re a pro! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish light and easy. You can use chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness, just adjust the cooking time based on thickness.
Ricotta Cheese: This is the star ingredient, giving creaminess to the dish. If you want a lighter option, cottage cheese is a good substitute, but it won’t be as smooth. You could also use cream cheese for a richer flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty kick. If you’re out, pecorino Romano works well too. For a dairy-free option, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme makes a great seasoning. If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to use them instead! They’ll give an even fresher taste.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can sometimes be tricky. To make sure it stays juicy, here are some tips:
- Let your chicken sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
- Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check doneness. Aim for 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
- Avoid overcooking, as it can dry the chicken out. If it looks golden and reaches the right temperature, it’s ready!
Following these tips will help you achieve tender, juicy chicken every time!
Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes from start to enjoying a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps to get a nice sear on the chicken. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for added flavor.
3. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried Italian herbs. Mix everything together well until it’s creamy and smooth. This will be the delicious topping for your chicken!
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to avoid sticking. Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the dish, making sure they are not overcrowded.
5. Add the Ricotta Topping:
Evenly spread the ricotta mixture on top of each chicken breast, making sure to cover them well for maximum flavor.
6. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
For extra richness, drizzle a little olive oil over the chicken and cheese topping. This will help it turn golden and delicious while baking.
7. Bake Your Chicken:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the topping is lightly golden.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, optionally garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add more flavor. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thighs may take a little longer to fully cook compared to breasts.
What if I Don’t Have Ricotta Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or cream cheese. If you use cream cheese, consider thinning it out with a bit of milk to achieve a similar texture to ricotta.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or oven until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help keep the chicken moist during reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add sliced vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the baking dish along with the chicken. They’ll cook nicely alongside and add extra flavor and nutrition!
