This creamy baked ricotta chicken is a real treat! Juicy chicken stuffed with smooth ricotta and topped with tasty herbs makes every bite super satisfying.
Honestly, who can resist cheesy goodness? I love serving it with a side of fresh veggies or pasta—it always impresses my family without much fuss in the kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ricotta Cheese: This creamy cheese is the star of the dish. If you can’t find ricotta, consider using mascarpone or cottage cheese for a similar texture. They’ll work well in keeping everything moist and delicious!
Chicken Breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken for convenience and to ensure easy stuffing. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use turkey breast instead. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Cheeses: The blend of Parmesan and mozzarella adds great flavor and creaminess. If you want a stronger taste, try substituting with sharp cheddar or provolone. Just remember to adjust quantities to taste!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil brings brightness to this dish. If you’re out of fresh herbs, dried herbs work too. Just use less since they’re more concentrated—about a third of the amount!
How Do I Stuff Chicken Breasts Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing chicken can be tricky, but it’s all about technique! Here’s how to get it right:
- Don’t rush cutting the pocket—use a sharp knife and make a careful incision on one side, leaving the other attached.
- Using a spoon or a piping bag can help you stuff the ricotta mixture in neatly.
- Press gently but firmly, so it stays put. If you’re worried about spillage, toothpicks can help seal the edges.
With a bit of practice, you’ll be a stuffing pro in no time!
Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce or tomato sauce (optional for topping)
- Cooking spray or additional olive oil for greasing the baking dish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 25 minutes of cooking time. You’ll have a delicious, cheesy meal ready in about 40 minutes—perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make your cooking surface ready by lightly greasing a baking dish with cooking spray or a little olive oil.
2. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, chopped basil, parsley (if you’re using it), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it forms a smooth and creamy filling.
3. Stuff the Chicken Breasts:
Take each chicken breast and use a sharp knife to carefully cut a pocket into the side. Make sure not to slice all the way through—just enough to create space for the delicious filling. Next, stuff each chicken breast with the ricotta mixture, pressing gently to keep it all inside.
4. Sear the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the stuffed chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn a nice golden brown. This adds flavor and helps seal in the juices!
5. Bake the Chicken:
Next, place the seared chicken breasts into your prepared baking dish. If you want a little extra flavor, spoon marinara sauce over the top of each breast. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear (make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
6. Rest and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the chicken juicy! Garnish with extra fresh basil or parsley if you’d like, and serve warm with your favorite sides.
Enjoy your creamy baked ricotta chicken with a side salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you don’t have ricotta, you can use mascarpone, cottage cheese, or even cream cheese. Just remember that the flavor and texture will vary slightly, so pick what you enjoy most!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked ricotta chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and stuff it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. This can save you time on busy nights!
What Should I Serve with Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread are also excellent options that complement its creamy flavors!
