Description
This Baked Ricotta Chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts topped with a creamy ricotta and parmesan mixture, layered with flavorful marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a comforting, easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Other
- 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 in the top third of the oven to ensure even cooking and proper browning.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four thin cutlets. Season both sides of the chicken with salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, freshly grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Pour half of the marinara sauce into a 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it evenly across the bottom to create a flavorful base layer.
- Assemble Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken cutlets side-by-side in the casserole dish over the marinara sauce. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture evenly on top of each chicken piece.
- Add Sauce: Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over each piece of chicken, covering the ricotta mixture completely.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to cook the chicken gently while melding flavors.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the chicken. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Optional Broil: For a golden and bubbly cheese topping, broil the chicken for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if desired, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
- Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature for safe consumption.
- Broiling is optional but adds a nice golden crust on the cheese.
- Fresh basil adds a nice fresh flavor and color contrast.
- Can be served with pasta, salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
