Name: ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups jarred marinara sauce; 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and pounded to an even ½ inch thickness (approximately 1 ¾ to 2 pounds); 1 ¼ cups whole milk ricotta cheese; 1 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 2 ½ cups whole milk mozzarella cheese; 1 large egg, room temperature; ¾ teaspoon garlic powder; ¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning blend; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional garnish)

?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta chicken is a delightful dish that brings the comforting tastes of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. This baked dish pairs tender seasoned chicken breasts with a rich ricotta-parmesan topping, marinara sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Indulging in this dish not only satisfies your cravings but also provides a wholesome and nutritious option for your dining table.

Why You’ll Love This ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta

This baked ricotta chicken offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try. First, it features fresh cheese that enhances flavor while keeping the dish rich and creamy. Second, it’s an Italian cheese delight, combining classic ingredients that everyone loves. Third, this recipe is straightforward, making it perfect even for beginner cooks. Additionally, it fits well into a gluten-free diet, accommodating those with specific dietary needs. The combination of chicken and cheese provides a protein-packed meal, ensuring everyone feels satisfied. Furthermore, you can easily pair it with a salad or pasta, making it a versatile option for any dinner table.

Ingredients for ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta

Gather these items:

1 ½ cups jarred marinara sauce
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, trimmed and pounded to an even ½ inch thickness (approximately 1 ¾ to 2 pounds)
1 ¼ cups whole milk ricotta cheese
1 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated
2 ½ cups whole milk mozzarella cheese
1 large egg, room temperature
¾ teaspoon garlic powder
¾ teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (optional garnish)

How to Make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Step 2: Spread half (¾ cup) the marinara sauce evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish. Reserve the remaining ¾ cup for later.
Step 3: Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts into the baking dish in a single layer and set aside.
Step 4: In a mixing bowl, add the whole milk ricotta cheese, freshly grated parmesan cheese, ½ cup of the shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning blend, salt, and black pepper, stirring until fully combined and the mixture is smooth.
Step 5: Divide the cheese mixture evenly and top each of the four chicken breasts with a portion of the cheese mixture. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
Step 6: Spoon the remaining half (¾ cup) of the marinara sauce evenly over the tops of each of the cheese-coated chicken breasts. Gently spread the sauce without mixing into the cheese mixture too much.
Step 7: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake the ricotta chicken for 25 minutes.
Step 8: Remove the aluminum foil, sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over each of the chicken breasts, and return to the oven to finish baking for an additional 15-20 minutes or just until the cheese is melted and the internal temperature of the chicken breasts reaches 160°-165°F with a meat thermometer. You can broil the top of the cheese for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time to brown the cheese more if desired, being sure to keep an eye on it to ensure the cheese does not burn.
Step 9: Remove the baking dish from the oven and allow the ricotta chicken to rest for 3-5 minutes before adding the optional garnish of chopped fresh basil if desired. This allows the basil to stay fresh and the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy when sliced.

Pro Tips for the Perfect ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly grated cheeses for the best texture and flavor.
Ensure the chicken breasts are pounded to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
Let the dish rest before serving to help the flavors meld.
For a low-fat option, consider using low-fat ricotta cheese.

Best Ways to Serve ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta

There are many delightful ways to enjoy this dish. Serve it over a bed of creamy cheese polenta for a comforting meal, or pair it with a fresh garden salad for a lighter option. You can also serve it alongside garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.

?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta Chicken Recipe - ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta

To store leftover ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta chicken, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. This dish is great for meal prep as well, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta

What’s the secret to perfect ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta?

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients. Choose good-quality ricotta and mozzarella for an authentic flavor, and don’t skip the seasoning to enhance each bite.

Can I make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

How do I avoid common mistakes with ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta?

To avoid dryness, make sure not to overbake the chicken. Using a meat thermometer to check for doneness will help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time.

Variations of ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=ricotta You Can Try

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider making a spicy version by adding crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. You can also experiment with different ricotta cheese substitutes like cottage cheese or even a vegan alternative made from blended tofu and nutritional yeast. Adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms can also elevate the dish with additional nutrients and flavor.

For more tips on making the best chicken recipes, check out our other articles.

Also, consider pairing this dish with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal experience.

Lastly, if you’re interested in gluten-free options, you can find more information here.