This Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken is a tasty treat! The chicken is tender and juicy, stuffed with creamy ricotta and topped with zesty marinara sauce. It’s like a hug in a meal!
Honestly, it’s so simple that you can impress your friends without breaking a sweat! I love serving it over pasta or with a fresh salad for a complete dinner. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. If you have chicken thighs on hand, they can also be used for a juicier texture. Just adjust cooking time accordingly!
Ricotta Cheese: Ricotta gives a creamy texture that’s hard to resist. If you’re dairy-free, try substituting with silken tofu or a dairy-free ricotta. It will change the flavor slightly, but it can still be delicious!
Marinara Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought marinara or homemade if you have some! If you want a little kick, consider trying arrabbiata sauce instead. It adds a nice spicy touch that I really enjoy.
Italian Seasoning: This mix of herbs adds great flavor. If you don’t have this on hand, a combination of oregano, basil, and thyme works well too. Fresh herbs in this mix can really elevate the dish!
How Do You Properly Stuff the Chicken Breasts?
Stuffing the chicken breasts can be tricky, but it’s important to get it right for maximum flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Make a pocket carefully to avoid cutting all the way through, allowing room for the cheese mixture.
- Use a spoon or spatula to gently fill the pocket with the ricotta mix, being careful not to overfill. You want it stuffed, but still able to close the chicken over it.
- Secure with toothpicks if necessary to keep filling from spilling out during cooking.
Take your time with this step. It’s easy to rush, but a well-stuffed chicken will be so much better on your plate!
Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce and Cooking:
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of about 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This way, the oven will be ready for your chicken as soon as you’re done prepping!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and, using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the side of each piece. Be sure not to cut all the way through the chicken; you want to create a nice pocket for the delicious filling!
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well mixed. This cheesy filling is what makes the chicken super tasty!
4. Stuff the Chicken:
Now, it’s time to stuff the chicken! Take the ricotta mixture and fill each pocket in the chicken breasts evenly. Ensure they’re well-filled but avoid overstuffing to prevent any spilling out while cooking.
5. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the stuffed chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This adds a perfect crispy layer to the outside!
6. Add the Sauce and Bake:
Now, place the seared chicken breasts in a baking dish. Spoon your favorite marinara sauce generously over the top of each piece. This will keep the chicken moist and add great flavor as it bakes!
7. Time to Bake:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know the chicken is done when it’s cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
8. Let It Rest:
Once baked, remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more juicy and tender!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, garnish your delicious baked chicken with fresh basil or parsley if you like. It adds a lovely fresh touch! Serve warm with your favorite sides, like pasta, salad, or veggies. Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Can I Use Other Cheeses for the Filling?
Absolutely! While ricotta and Parmesan are delicious, you can substitute them with cream cheese, goat cheese, or even mozzarella for a different flavor profile. Just keep the texture in mind, as some cheeses may be creamier than others.
Can I Prepare This Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken breasts in advance! Stuff and sear them, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, just bake straight from the fridge, possibly adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftover Baked Ricotta Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through, adding a splash of marinara sauce if needed to moisten it.
Can I Freeze Baked Ricotta Chicken?
Yes! After cooking, let the chicken cool completely, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
