Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 14 reviews

This Baked Ricotta Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts seared to golden perfection and baked with a creamy ricotta cheese topping and flavorful marinara sauce. Combining Italian seasonings and garlic, it’s a simple yet impressive dish perfect for a comforting family dinner or an elegant weeknight meal.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1¾ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)
  • 2-3 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Ricotta Mixture

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 3-4 garlic cloves, minced (use 3 if large cloves)
  • 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning

Sauce

  • 24 oz marinara sauce

Optional Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Season Chicken: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the chicken breasts dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, then season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
  2. Sear Chicken: Heat a cast iron or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2-3 teaspoons of your chosen oil (extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil). Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they develop a light golden brown crust. This step locks in juices and adds flavor.
  3. Prepare Ricotta Mixture: While the chicken is searing, combine the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
  4. Arrange in Skillet: After searing, remove the chicken breasts from the skillet and set aside briefly. Pour the marinara sauce evenly around the bottom of the skillet. Return the chicken breasts to the pan, placing them on top of the sauce. Spoon approximately 1/4 cup of the ricotta mixture over each breast.
  5. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the ricotta cheese is slightly browned and bubbling, and chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
  6. Serve: Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm, with marinara sauce spooned on top or around the chicken breasts for a flavorful presentation.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked through without drying out.
  • Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
  • For extra flavor, add red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for a little heat.
  • This dish pairs well with garlic bread, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
  • Ensure the skillet you use is oven-safe to avoid transferring the chicken to another dish for baking.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://iamstarved.com/baked-ricotta-chicken-recipe/