If you love comfort food that feels both indulgent and wholesome, this Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. Tender chicken breasts are transformed by a luscious ricotta and parmesan cheese blend, layered with savory marinara and gooey mozzarella for a meal that’s juicy, cheesy, and bursting with Italian-inspired flavor. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish brings warmth and happiness to the table every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe comes down to a few simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color, making this recipe both easy and incredibly satisfying.
- Chicken breasts: Thinly sliced to ensure even cooking and a tender bite every time.
- Salt & pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all the natural flavors.
- Ricotta cheese: Adds creaminess and a mild, fresh richness to the topping.
- Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, nutty complexity that complements the ricotta beautifully.
- Garlic: Minced fresh for aromatic depth and warmth.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds that quintessential Italian flair.
- Marinara sauce: A vibrant, tangy base that keeps the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Mozzarella cheese: Melted to golden perfection for the ultimate cheesy finish.
- Fresh basil: Optional, but highly recommended for a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes.
How to Make Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Chicken
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and place the rack in the top third position. This ensures the cheese will melt and brown beautifully without overcooking the chicken. Next, take your chicken breasts and cut each one in half lengthwise, creating four thin cutlets that will cook evenly and quickly. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper to build a solid flavor foundation.
Step 2: Mix the Ricotta Cheese Blend
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, freshly grated parmesan, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. This rich blend is the star topping that adds creaminess, savory notes, and a hint of herbaceous warmth. Stir it well so every bite of chicken will have just the right balance of cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Arrange and Layer the Dish
Pour half of your marinara sauce into the bottom of a 9×13 inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly to form a flavorful base. Then, neatly arrange the seasoned chicken cutlets side-by-side on top of the sauce. Dollop the ricotta mixture generously over each piece, spreading it so every inch of chicken is covered. Finally, spoon the remaining marinara over the ricotta-topped chicken to seal in all those savory juices.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil to lock in moisture. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 minutes. This baking time allows the chicken to cook gently while the cheeses melt into a creamy layer under the sauce.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella and Finish Baking
Carefully remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven uncovered for 15 more minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the cheese is bubbly and melted. For an irresistible golden crust, briefly switch your oven to broil for a couple of minutes—but keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Once out of the oven, let the chicken rest for a few minutes which helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and tender. Taste and adjust seasoning with a little extra salt and pepper if desired. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil if you have it on hand—this bright herb adds freshness and beautiful color.
How to Serve Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil really brings this dish to life and adds a lovely herbal note that contrasts the richness of the cheeses. A little cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good quality olive oil can also elevate the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This hearty baked ricotta chicken pairs perfectly with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a fluffy bed of pasta or creamy polenta are also wonderful companions to soak up every bit of the sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving each chicken cutlet with a spoonful of sauce and cheese right on top of a grilled polenta slice or parmesan risotto cake. Layering colors and textures on the plate makes every meal feel special and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover baked ricotta chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dish holds up well and remains delicious, making it perfect for quick meals after a busy day.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. For best results, transfer chicken to a freezer-safe container and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F covered with foil to keep the chicken moist, or use a microwave on medium power with a cover to avoid drying out the cheese and meat. If you like, sprinkle a little extra mozzarella on top before reheating to revive that melty, golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese in the Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe?
Absolutely! While ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella create a perfect balance, feel free to experiment with fontina, provolone, or even a little goat cheese for a different flavor twist.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep. Since it reheats well, you can make it ahead of time and have delicious lunches or dinners ready for several days.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! The recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses only chicken, cheese, and simple seasonings. Just be sure to check your marinara sauce label to avoid any hidden gluten.
How can I make the chicken more tender?
Cutting the chicken into thin cutlets as instructed helps them cook evenly and stay tender. You can also marinate the chicken briefly in olive oil and lemon juice before seasoning for extra juiciness.
What wine pairs well with Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe?
A medium-bodied red like Chianti or a crisp white like Pinot Grigio works beautifully with the creamy cheese and rich tomato sauce, enhancing the Italian flavors in every bite.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that checks all the boxes—easy, flavorful, comforting, and impressive—this Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a satisfying solo treat. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how effortlessly delicious dinner can be!
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Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Baked Ricotta Chicken is a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a creamy ricotta and parmesan mixture, layered with rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a family dinner and delivers a delicious blend of cheesy, garlicky flavors with a crispy, golden finish when broiled.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)
- Salt & pepper to taste
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred)
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Sauce and Topping
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- Fresh basil (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the oven rack to the top third, preparing for even baking and melting of cheese.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thin cutlets. Season each piece generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Make Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, freshly grated parmesan, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
- Layer Marinara: Pour half of the marinara sauce evenly into a 9×13 inch casserole dish, creating a flavorful base for the chicken.
- Arrange Chicken and Cheese: Place the seasoned chicken cutlets side by side over the marinara sauce. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly on top of each chicken piece to ensure creamy coverage.
- Add More Marinara: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, coating the cheese topping and sealing in moisture.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish tightly with foil to trap steam and tenderize the chicken. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Uncover and Add Mozzarella: Carefully remove the foil from the dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the chicken. Return the uncovered dish to the oven, baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Optional Broil: For a golden brown cheese topping, broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Season with extra salt and pepper if desired, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute whole milk ricotta with part-skim ricotta for a lighter option, but whole milk ricotta yields a creamier texture.
- For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture or marinara sauce.
- Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven or microwave.
- Fresh basil adds bright flavor and color but can be omitted if unavailable.
