This creamy baked ricotta chicken is a comforting dish that combines juicy chicken breasts with smooth ricotta cheese and tasty herbs. It’s simple yet oh-so-satisfying!
Honestly, who can resist cheesy goodness? When I make this, I usually pair it with a side of veggies or pasta. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish, but you can also use thighs for more flavor and juiciness. If you enjoy a different protein, try turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option!
Ricotta Cheese: This is the star of the dish, contributing to the creamy texture. If you’re looking to save on calories, consider part-skim ricotta. Cottage cheese can be a good substitute, just blend it smooth first.
Parmesan and Mozzarella: Grated Parmesan adds a salty flavor, while mozzarella makes it cheesy and gooey. If you’re dairy-free, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and a plant-based mozzarella alternative!
Heavy Cream: For a richer taste, heavy cream works well, but you can swap it for half-and-half or coconut cream if you want to lighten the dish or make it dairy-free.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings tons of flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work. Remember, it’s less potent, so use less than you would of fresh.
How Can I Achieve Perfectly Cooked Chicken?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but a few tips can help ensure it’s juicy and tender:
- Reverse Searing: Sear the chicken in the skillet first to create a nice crust, which locks in moisture. Then finish it in the oven to cook it through evenly.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to know if your chicken is done is by checking the internal temperature. Aim for 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked.
- Rest the Chicken: Always let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting. This helps the juices redistribute, preventing dryness.
By following these tips along with the recipe, you’ll end up with deliciously creamy baked ricotta chicken every time!
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
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to bake, so you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in about 30-35 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your chicken will cook evenly and get nice and bubbly in the oven.
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and season them on both sides with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. This adds flavor from the inside out!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown, then remove from heat. This gives the chicken a great texture and color.
4. Make the Creamy Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, heavy cream, minced garlic, and the remaining Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. This mixture is the heart of your dish!
5. Assemble the Dish:
Scoop the creamy ricotta mixture and evenly spoon it over the top of each seared chicken breast. Make sure the chicken is well covered for that creamy goodness!
6. Bake the Chicken:
Now, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it sit for a minute, then garnish it with fresh chopped parsley or basil. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy delight!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy baked ricotta chicken! It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or pasta.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully in this recipe. They are more flavorful and tend to stay juicier during cooking. Just ensure you check that they reach the internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Keep in mind that using a lower-fat version will result in a slightly less creamy texture.
Can I Prep This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ricotta mixture and sear the chicken ahead of time. Assemble the dish and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure everything is heated through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven or microwave until heated through, adding a splash of cream if you want to refresh the creaminess!
