Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe
A delicious and creamy baked ricotta chicken recipe featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a flavorful mixture of fresh ricotta, parmesan cheese, garlic, and basil, baked to perfection for a comforting and easy dinner option.
- Author: Sienna
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for drizzling
Ricotta Mixture
- 1 cup fresh ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Season Chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper on both sides, then place them evenly spaced in the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the fresh ricotta cheese, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and chopped fresh basil. Mix thoroughly until well combined to create a creamy and flavorful topping for the chicken.
- Top Chicken: Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the top of each seasoned chicken breast, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor. Drizzle a little olive oil over the top to add richness and help with browning.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) indicating it is fully cooked and juicy inside.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest briefly. Serve warm, drizzling any remaining sauce or juices from the baking dish over the chicken to enhance flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh basil with dried basil if fresh is unavailable; use 1 teaspoon dried basil.
- If desired, add a squeeze of lemon juice over the baked chicken before serving for a fresh, bright note.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer to avoid undercooking.
- For a lower-fat option, use part-skim ricotta cheese.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: baked ricotta chicken, chicken breast recipe, Italian chicken, easy chicken dinner, creamy chicken bake