This creamy baked ricotta chicken is a dream come true for cheese lovers! Tender chicken is smothered in a rich, cheesy ricotta mix that makes every bite feel like a cozy hug.
Seriously, who can resist that creamy goodness? I like to serve it with a side of veggies or pasta for a complete meal—just be ready for everyone to ask for seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for this dish as they cook evenly and stay moist. You could swap them for chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Ricotta Cheese: This is the star of the recipe, adding creaminess. If you want a lighter option, cottage cheese works in a pinch, but it will change the texture a bit.
Parmesan and Mozzarella: Freshly grated cheese always wins for taste! If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino is a great substitute. For mozzarella, feel free to use provolone or a cheese blend.
Heavy Cream: Using heavy cream makes the dish rich, but you can use whole milk or a plant-based milk instead for a lighter version. Just know it won’t be as creamy.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely depth of flavor. If you don’t have them, roasted red peppers or olives can be a nice alternative.
How Do I Get Perfectly Baked Chicken?
Getting moist and tender chicken is crucial for this recipe. Start by searing the chicken for just a few minutes on each side. This creates a nice crust and keeps the juices inside.
- Preheat your pan before adding the chicken to get that golden color.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
Letting chicken rest for a few minutes after baking helps keep it juicy. You’ll be amazed at the difference this simple step makes!
How to Make 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
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (or 1 tbsp dried basil)
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s an easy and quick meal that looks and tastes gourmet!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the chicken bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This is important to get a nice sear. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to bring out the flavors.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. They don’t need to be cooked through, as they’ll finish baking in the oven. Once done, take them out of the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, minced garlic, chopped basil, sun-dried tomatoes (if you’re using them), and heavy cream. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy!
5. Assemble the Dish:
Place your seared chicken breasts in a baking dish and spread the creamy ricotta mixture evenly over each piece. This will create a delicious cheesy topping as it bakes.
6. Bake the Chicken:
Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked (165°F or 74°C internal temperature) and the cheese mixture is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Then, garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves for a pop of color before serving.
8. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve your creamy baked ricotta chicken with your favorite sides, like roasted vegetables, pasta, or a crisp salad. Get ready for everyone to ask for your secret recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of ricotta, you can substitute it with cottage cheese for a similar texture. For a stronger flavor, try goat cheese or feta, but keep in mind this will alter the dish’s overall taste.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
To lighten up the dish, you can replace the heavy cream with whole milk or even a low-fat yogurt. You can also use less cheese or opt for low-fat cheese varieties to reduce calories while still enjoying a creamy texture!
Can I Freeze Leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftovers! Just make sure to let them cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
What Sides Pair Well With Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken?
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh green salad. Pasta tossed in a light olive oil and garlic sauce also complements the creamy chicken wonderfully!
