This creamy baked ricotta chicken is super tasty and easy to make! Tender chicken is topped with a smooth ricotta cheese mix, making each bite rich and satisfying.
Plus, it looks fancy enough for guests but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. I love serving it with some nice bread to soak up the creamy goodness—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish because they stay moist. If you’re looking for a change, you can use thighs instead, as they add extra flavor and tenderness.
Ricotta Cheese: This is a key ingredient that makes the dish creamy. If you can’t find ricotta, cottage cheese can work as a substitute; just blend it for a smoother consistency.
Parmesan Cheese: It adds a deliciously salty and nutty flavor. If you need a replacement, try pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs that brings great flavor. You can easily make your own with equal parts dried basil, oregano, and thyme if you do not have a premade mix.
Olive Oil: This helps in searing the chicken. Feel free to substitute with avocado oil or butter if desired.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the chicken cooked just right is essential! Here’s how you can achieve that:
- Pat the chicken dry to get a nice sear and prevent steaming in the skillet.
- Use a medium-high heat to brown the chicken quickly while keeping the inside juicy.
- After searing, transfer it to the oven. A thermometer is handy—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest after baking for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
How to Make Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy baked ricotta chicken will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to bake, totaling roughly 35-40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot enough to cook the chicken perfectly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Next, pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This step helps them sear nicely! Season both sides generously with salt and pepper for flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the chicken breasts. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. Once seared, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Mix the Ricotta Topping:
In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix everything until it’s well combined and creamy.
5. Top the Chicken:
Spread the creamy ricotta mixture evenly over the tops of the seared chicken breasts. Make sure each piece is nicely covered for that delicious flavor!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese topping is bubbly and lightly golden.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. If you like, garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy baked ricotta chicken with a side of roasted vegetables, pasta, or some warm crusty bread!
FAQ for Creamy Baked Ricotta Chicken
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While ricotta is the star here, you can substitute it with cottage cheese for a different flavor or texture. Additionally, you can use cheddar or gouda instead of mozzarella for a tasty twist!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy baked ricotta chicken pairs beautifully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with crusty bread to scoop up the creamy sauce!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken and the ricotta mixture in advance! Just sear the chicken and cover it with the cheese mixture, then refrigerate it for up to a day. When you’re ready to eat, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Microwaving is also an option—just cover to prevent drying out!
