What is the easiest way to make baked ricotta chicken?

The easiest way to make baked ricotta chicken is to spread a mixture of ricotta, Parmesan, garlic, and herbs over chicken breasts or thighs and bake until golden and cooked through. This method works for baked ricotta chicken breast, baked ricotta chicken pasta, or even baked ricotta chicken meatballs.

Can I make baked ricotta chicken meatballs?

Yes! Combine ground chicken with ricotta, Parmesan, garlic, and optional spinach. Shape into meatballs and bake for tender, cheesy baked ricotta chicken meatballs perfect for pasta or as a main dish.

What sides go well with baked ricotta chicken?

Baked ricotta chicken pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, pesto green beans, or pasta. You can also serve baked ricotta chicken with a fresh salad or quinoa for a balanced, family-friendly meal.

Can baked ricotta chicken be used in pasta recipes?

Absolutely. Shredded baked ricotta chicken works beautifully in baked ricotta chicken pasta. Combine with your favorite sauce—pesto, tomato, or cream—for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that’s creamy and satisfying.

Baked Ricotta Chicken Recipe – Quick, Creamy & Delicious 2026

Description

A creamy, cheesy baked chicken dish featuring ricotta cheese, herbs, and seasonings. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it pairs beautifully with pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. This recipe works for chicken breasts, thighs, or even meatballs for a twist.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (serves 4):

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or fresh basil and oregano)
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Add-Ins:

1 cup chopped spinach (for ricotta chicken meatballs or stuffed chicken)
½ cup cooked pasta (for baked ricotta chicken pasta)
Pesto or roasted vegetables (for serving)

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil.

Step 2: Make Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, garlic, Italian herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken
Pat chicken dry. For stuffed chicken, cut a pocket in each breast and fill with ricotta mixture. For a simpler version, spread ricotta mixture over the top of the chicken.

Step 4: Bake
Place chicken in the prepared dish. Drizzle lightly with olive oil. Bake for 25–30 minutes (breasts) or 35–40 minutes (thighs) until chicken is cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Optional Additions

For baked ricotta chicken pasta, shred baked chicken and toss with cooked pasta and extra ricotta or a light tomato/pesto sauce.
Serve with roasted green beans, broccoli, or a fresh salad.

Notes

Cheese Tip: Use fresh ricotta for a creamy texture.
Make Ahead: Chicken can be prepped a day ahead; bake just before serving.
Variation: Try adding herbs like thyme or sage for a fragrant twist.
Meatballs: Mix ricotta into ground chicken with breadcrumbs for baked ricotta chicken meatballs.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–40 minutes (depending on cut)
Category: Main Course / Chicken
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Italian-American