Name: Delicious Baked Ricotta Chicken for a Cozy Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 large egg; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil (plus more for garnish); 1 ½ cups marinara sauce; 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

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Baked Ricotta Chicken is a comfort food dream—juicy chicken breasts layered with herby ricotta, rich marinara, and melty mozzarella. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining, it’s a one-dish dinner that delivers bold flavor and creamy, cheesy satisfaction. The fusion of flavors in this Italian dish makes it irresistible and a great choice for anyone looking to impress at the dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Ricotta Chicken

This hearty dish is not just delicious but also offers a range of benefits. First, it’s a great source of protein, thanks to the chicken, containing about 42g per serving. Moreover, the creamy ricotta adds a luscious texture while keeping the dish light. It’s also a low-carb meal, making it suitable for anyone on a low-carb diet. Additionally, this recipe is versatile; you can easily incorporate different herbs or vegetables. The simplicity of preparation means you can have this Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe on your table in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s gluten-free, accommodating various dietary needs.

Ingredients for Baked Ricotta Chicken

Gather these items:

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 large egg
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil (plus more for garnish)
1 ½ cups marinara sauce
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Baked Ricotta Chicken Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Place chicken breasts in the dish and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, basil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until creamy and smooth.
Step 4: Spoon and spread the ricotta mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
Step 5: Pour marinara sauce around and slightly over the chicken, making sure not to fully cover the ricotta layer.
Step 6: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of each breast. Add extra Parmesan or basil if desired.
Step 7: Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Step 8: Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 9: Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Baked Ricotta Chicken

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh herbs for enhanced flavor.
Let the dish rest after baking to allow flavors to meld.
For a twist, try adding spinach or other vegetables to the ricotta mix.
This dish is best served immediately, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a quick meal.

Best Ways to Serve Baked Ricotta Chicken

There are various ways to enjoy this Oven-Baked Ricotta Chicken. Serve it over a bed of pasta for a hearty meal or with a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce. For a healthier option, pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. You can also slice the chicken and serve it on a bed of quinoa for a nutritious twist.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Ricotta Chicken

To store leftovers, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For reheating, you can place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option. This is a great One-Pan Baked Ricotta Chicken Meal that is ideal for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Ricotta Chicken

What is Baked Ricotta Chicken?

Baked Ricotta Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring chicken breasts topped with a creamy ricotta mixture, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese. It combines Italian flavors in a comforting way, making it a favorite for family dinners.

Can I make Baked Ricotta Chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ricotta mixture and season the chicken ahead of time. Just assemble the dish and bake it when you are ready to serve. This makes it a great choice for those busy weeknights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked Ricotta Chicken?

To ensure your Baked Ricotta Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid overcooking the chicken, as it can become dry. Also, make sure to let it rest after baking for the flavors to develop fully.

Variations of Baked Ricotta Chicken You Can Try

There are many delicious variations you can explore. For a Healthy Baked Ricotta Chicken Dinner, add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the ricotta mixture. You can also try a Baked Chicken Ricotta Pasta by mixing the baked chicken with your favorite pasta. For a twist, use different cheeses or add spices to customize the flavor to your liking.

For more tips on cooking chicken, you can check out this easy baked chicken recipe or learn about slow cooker options for a convenient meal.

If you’re interested in more Italian recipes, consider trying Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage or Italian Sausage and Peppers for a delightful twist on classic flavors.

Delicious Baked Ricotta Chicken for a Cozy Dinner

Author: basmer
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Baked Ricotta Chicken is a comfort food dream—juicy chicken breasts layered with herby ricotta, rich marinara, and melty mozzarella. Perfect for weeknights or entertaining, it’s a one-dish dinner that delivers bold flavor and creamy, cheesy satisfaction.

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Place chicken breasts in the dish and season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, basil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until creamy and smooth.
Spoon and spread the ricotta mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
Pour marinara sauce around and slightly over the chicken, making sure not to fully cover the ricotta layer.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of each breast. Add extra Parmesan or basil if desired.
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) and cheese is golden and bubbly.
Let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.