Description
Elevate your chicken game with this Flavorful Baked Ricotta Chicken , a creamy, cheesy, and herb-infused dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with a rich ricotta mixture blended with garlic, lemon zest, and fresh herbs, then baked to golden perfection. The result? A tender, flavorful centerpiece that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, pasta, or a crisp salad. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this step-by-step guide—complete with an easy-to-follow video tutorial—will show you how to create this restaurant-worthy dish effortlessly. Watch the video, follow along, and get ready to savor a comforting yet elegant meal!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Ricotta Topping:
- 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or basil for a sweeter flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) . Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the chicken in a single layer.
Season the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Sear the Chicken (Optional):
- Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown (this step adds extra flavor but can be skipped for convenience). Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking dish.
Make the Ricotta Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest and juice, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until smooth and well combined.
Top and Bake:
- Spread the ricotta mixture evenly over the top of each chicken breast, using the back of a spoon to create an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes , or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C ) and the topping is lightly golden.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus. Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main course
- Cuisine: Italian
