Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Bake
Try this Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Bake recipe.
Try this Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Bake recipe.
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
- salt and black pepper
- 1 cup fat free ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup shredded 2% mozzarella cheese divided
- 1 1/2 – 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
- 4 (6 oz each) boneless skinless chicken breasts (24 oz total)
- 1 cup pasta sauce (i used francesco rinaldi original)
- Carbohydrate 2.0001875 g
- Cholesterol 62.485 mg
- Fat 3.728375 g
- Fiber 0.0803750002384186 g
- Protein 5.1673875 g
- Saturated Fat 1.92722625 g
- Serving Size 1 1 (1 stuffed breast) serving (53g)
- Sodium 3545.13625558115 mg
- Sugar 1.91981249976158 g
- Trans Fat 0.340045 g
- Calories 62 calories
Step-by-step
- Pre-heat the oven to 375.
- Lightly mist a 9x13 baking dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the egg, ricotta, 1/2 cup of the mozzarella, basil, and parsley and stir until well mixed.
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board.
- Sprinkle both sides of the breasts with salt, black pepper, and the Italian seasoning.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the breasts from the side (creating a top and bottom) almost all the way through.
- Open each breast at the slit.
- Divide the ricotta mixture evenly amongst the four breasts and spread across the surface of one side (leaving the other half empty to fold over the filling).
- When all four breasts are topped on one side, fold the empty half over the filling to make a stuffed breast.
- Transfer each stuffed breast to a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Spoon the pasta sauce over the chicken and around the dish.
- Bake in the oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the chicken with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Don’t worry if some of the ricotta filling leaks out into the sauce, you can just heap it all on top when you serve it!
Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Bake: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a healthy and delicious dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and all the other demands of modern life, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s why I’ve become a huge fan of recipes that are both quick and impressive, and this Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Bake fits the bill perfectly.
This recipe is a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights when I need a satisfying meal on the table without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. The creamy ricotta filling adds a touch of elegance, while the simple preparation makes it surprisingly easy to execute. It's a dish that always impresses, whether I’m serving it to my family or to unexpected guests.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to tailor the filling to your taste. A sprinkle of sun-dried tomatoes or a dash of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. You can also adapt the type of cheese to what you have on hand or your preferences. I often use a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for a sharper, more complex flavor profile.
One of the things I love most about this dish is the ease of preparation. The chicken breasts are incredibly easy to stuff, and the baking process is virtually hands-off. Once it's in the oven, I can focus on other tasks, knowing that a delicious and healthy meal is on its way. The cleanup is minimal too, which is a huge bonus after a long day.
This Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Bake isn’t just a convenient weeknight meal; it’s a versatile dish that can be easily adapted for different occasions. For a more elegant presentation, I sometimes serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. The dish also travels well, making it perfect for potlucks or gatherings. And for those nights when I'm truly short on time, I'll often prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, ready to assemble and bake when needed.
Beyond its practicality, this recipe holds a special place in my heart because it's a reminder that even amidst the chaos of everyday life, there's always time for a nourishing and delicious meal. It’s a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a little planning and a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that is both satisfying and memorable.
I encourage you to try this Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Bake recipe. It's a versatile and flavorful dish that's perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or any time you want a comforting and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. And remember, the most important ingredient in any recipe is the love you put into it. So, go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
For a spicier kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture.
Add some veggies: Incorporate finely chopped spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes into the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.
Cheese variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as parmesan, provolone, or fontina.
Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or your favorite pasta.
Meal prep friendly: Prepare the ricotta filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for easy assembly later.
Leftovers are great: This dish reheats well and is even tastier the next day!
