Description
Baked Ricotta Chicken is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts topped with a creamy ricotta mixture, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s an easy-to-make, protein-packed meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, combining Italian-inspired seasonings and fresh basil for a delicious, cheesy bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Ricotta Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped basil (plus more for garnish)
Sauce and Topping
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Season Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder to enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Prepare Ricotta Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, fresh chopped basil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir thoroughly until the mixture is creamy and smooth, ensuring an even texture.
- Spread Ricotta on Chicken: Evenly spoon and spread the ricotta mixture over the top of each chicken breast, covering them completely with the flavorful layer.
- Add Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce around the chicken breasts and slightly over the ricotta layer, taking care not to completely cover the ricotta topping to keep its texture intact.
- Top with Mozzarella: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over each chicken breast. Optionally, add extra Parmesan cheese or basil for additional flavor.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, allowing the chicken to cook through gently.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese on top is golden, bubbly, and slightly browned.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving for a vibrant presentation and flavor boost.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked by checking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- You can substitute fresh herbs like oregano or parsley for basil if preferred.
- For a lower-fat version, use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella cheese.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, pasta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven.
