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Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe

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4.4 from 13 reviews

This Baked Ricotta Chicken recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts topped with a creamy ricotta and garlic mixture, baked to perfection with savory marinara sauce. The searing step locks in flavor and juiciness before a simple oven finish creates a bubbly, golden-topped dish that's perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Protein

  • 1¾ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 4 breasts)

Dairy

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese

Produce & Herbs

  • 3-4 garlic cloves, minced (use 3 for large cloves)
  • 1½ teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • Optional: parsley for garnish

Pantry

  • Extra virgin olive oil or avocado oil (2-3 teaspoons for searing)
  • Kosher salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • 24 oz marinara sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Season: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel to ensure a good sear. Season both sides generously with kosher salt and black pepper.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat a cast iron or oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat and add 2-3 teaspoons of olive or avocado oil. Once hot, sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step locks in moisture and flavor.
  3. Prepare Ricotta Mixture: While the chicken is searing, combine the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
  4. Assemble in Skillet: Remove the seared chicken from the skillet and temporarily set aside. Place the skillet in a heat-safe area. Spoon the marinara sauce evenly around the bottom of the skillet to create a flavorful bed. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon about 1/4 cup of the ricotta mixture on top of each piece.
  5. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Bake until the ricotta cheese on top is slightly browned and bubbling, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches at least 165°F as measured by a meat thermometer.
  6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for a couple of minutes. Serve the chicken warm with the marinara sauce either underneath or spooned on top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked to 165°F for safety and juiciness.
  • Using a cast iron or oven-safe skillet allows you to sear and bake the chicken in one pan, reducing cleanup.
  • If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, use 3 garlic cloves; increase to 4 for more intensity.
  • Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
  • Ricotta cheese adds creamy texture without overwhelming moisture, making it ideal for baking atop chicken.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Chicken
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://avascooking.com/baked-ricotta-chicken-recipe/