Description
This ricotta chicken is the kind of easy dinner that feels both comforting and impressive. Juicy baked chicken breasts are layered with creamy ricotta, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella, creating a cheesy, satisfying dish perfect for a quick dinner, family meals, or cozy food ideas. Whether you’re searching for easy dinner recipes, healthy-ish comfort food, or simple Italian-inspired dishes, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
2 large chicken breasts
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until lightly golden.
4. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, garlic, parmesan, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until smooth.
5. Spread marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish and place chicken on top.
6. Spoon ricotta mixture evenly over each chicken breast.
7. Add more marinara sauce on top, then sprinkle mozzarella and extra parmesan.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
9. Broil for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
10. Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve warm.
Notes
Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture and best flavor.
Do not overbake the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
Let the dish rest before serving to help the layers set and enhance flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 110mg