Description
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of Baked Ricotta Chicken! Tender chicken breasts are layered with a rich ricotta-parmesan mixture, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella for a comforting, Italian-inspired dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 2 large chicken breasts, halved lengthwise
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk preferred)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Oven
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and move the rack to the top third of the oven.
- Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create four thinner cutlets. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Ricotta Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well blended.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly in the bottom of a 9×13 casserole dish.
- Place the seasoned chicken cutlets side-by-side in the dish.
- Spread the ricotta mixture generously over each piece of chicken.
- Spoon the remaining marinara sauce on top of the ricotta-covered chicken.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken
- Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella and Finish Baking
- Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the chicken, and return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (165°F on an instant-read thermometer).
- Optional: Broil for 2–3 minutes to brown the cheese slightly, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Step 6: Serve
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Enjoy with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to make use of the extra sauce!
Notes
- Customizations: Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms to the marinara for extra flavor.
- Chicken Tip: Cooking time may vary based on the thickness of your chicken. Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
