Do Share Recipe

Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe | Creamy & Delicious

I have to admit, I’m obsessed with cheesy, comforting meals that require minimal effort. This easy baked ricotta chicken recipe has become my go-to weeknight dinner. The oven does most of the work, and the combination of creamy ricotta, savory parmesan, and melty mozzarella makes every bite irresistible.

I love how the sauce is generous enough to spoon over pasta or rice, making it perfect for busy families. Let me walk you through this delicious, foolproof recipe that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. If you enjoy hearty casseroles, you can also enjoy a Southwest Chicken Casserole Recipe for a slightly different flavor twist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what makes this baked ricotta chicken so flavorful and creamy. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients whenever possible for the best results.

2 large chicken breasts, cut in half lengthwise – thinner cutlets cook faster and more evenly.
Salt & pepper to taste – seasoning is key for bringing out the chicken’s natural flavor.
1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk recommended) – creamier and less grainy than part-skim.
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – grating it yourself enhances flavor and meltability.
3 cloves garlic, minced – adds aromatic depth; measure to your taste.
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs that adds savory notes effortlessly.
2 cups marinara sauce – your favorite jarred sauce works perfectly.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully and adds gooey richness.
Fresh basil (optional) – for garnish and a pop of color.

Note: Serves 4 generously.

Variations

You can easily customize this baked ricotta chicken to suit dietary needs or add extra flavor:

Swap ricotta for a dairy-free alternative to make it lactose-free.
Add a handful of fresh spinach to the ricotta mixture for extra greens, similar to a Baked Seafood Spinach Dip with Mozzarella Recipe I love making.
Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Use homemade marinara sauce for a fresher taste and fewer preservatives.
Try smoked mozzarella for a subtle smoky flavor twist.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick overview of how long it takes to prepare this dish:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Equipment You Need

These tools will make the recipe easier and ensure perfect results:

9×13-inch casserole dish – for even baking.
Large mixing bowl – to combine the ricotta mixture comfortably.
Chef’s knife – for slicing chicken breasts evenly.
Microplane zester – ideal for grating parmesan cheese.
Instant-read thermometer – ensures chicken is cooked to 165°F.
Silicone oven gloves – protects your hands while handling hot dishes.

How to Make Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken

Prepare the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 375°F and move the rack to the top third. Slice the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create thinner cutlets. Season both sides with salt and pepper to enhance flavor.

Mix the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine ricotta, parmesan, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix until smooth and creamy, making sure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Assemble the Casserole

Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of your baking dish. Lay the seasoned chicken cutlets on top, then spoon the ricotta mixture over each piece. Finish with the remaining marinara sauce.

Bake the Chicken

Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 20 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook evenly and the cheeses to meld. Remove foil, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top, and bake uncovered until chicken is cooked through. Broil for 1–2 minutes if you want extra bubbly cheese.

Rest and Garnish

Allow the baked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil for a pop of color and added freshness.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

From my experience, these small tweaks make a big difference:

I always use whole milk ricotta; it’s creamier and richer.
Grate parmesan fresh for better flavor and texture.
Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking the chicken.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Don’t skimp on marinara sauce—it’s part of the comfort factor!

How to Serve Easy Baked Ricotta Chicken

This chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal:

Serve over pasta, rice, or buttered noodles to soak up the sauce.
Add a fresh salad with your favorite dressing for a lighter side.
Steam vegetables like green beans or broccolini for balance.
Garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of parmesan for a restaurant-style presentation.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate per serving for those tracking their intake:

Calories: 480 kcal
Protein: 45 g
Carbohydrates: 12 g
Fat: 28 g

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.

Freezing: I don’t recommend freezing this dish because the creamy ricotta can separate and become grainy.

Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the oven to maintain the creamy texture without drying out the chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked ricotta chicken quickly became a favorite in my kitchen, and here’s why:

It’s effortless to prepare with minimal hands-on time.
The creamy, cheesy flavors make it irresistible for all ages.
Flexible ingredients allow for dietary adjustments or extra flavor.
Leftovers reheat well for a quick next-day meal.
Perfectly pairs with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a balanced dinner.

This easy baked ricotta chicken is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s a comforting meal that’s simple enough for weeknights but impressive enough for guests. I love how versatile it is—you can tweak the ingredients, add veggies, or serve it with different sides. Once you try it, this recipe will likely become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation!

Ben Carraoli