Dive into a culinary symphony with our Spinach Ricotta Chicken—an exquisite dish that marries succulent chicken breasts with a luxurious ricotta and spinach blend. Baked to perfection and generously topped with marinara and melted Parmesan, this meal is a celebration of flavors, textures, and pure indulgence. Elevate your dining experience with this elegant and comforting masterpiece.
This Spinach Ricotta Chicken has become a culinary legend in our home. Picture a cozy evening, the tantalizing scent of garlic and Italian herbs filling the kitchen. As the oven worked its magic, the anticipation built. The first bite—a burst of savory richness and a medley of textures. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience, a story told through layers of flavors that keep our family coming back for more.
Why This Dish is a Must-Try:
- Ricotta Marvel: Creamy ricotta and fresh chopped spinach create a luscious filling that’s both indulgent and wholesome.
- Melted Parmesan Magic: A golden crown of melted Parmesan adds a decadent touch to the dish.
- Simple Elegance: Effortlessly prepared and baked to perfection, making it ideal for both weekday dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lb chicken breast (approximately 680g)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh chopped spinach
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
- 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (separated)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- ½ teaspoon cracked pepper
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- Extra Parmesan for topping
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, spinach, one minced garlic clove, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper until fully combined.
- Spray the bottom of a 9×13 pan or a large baking dish with oil. Place the chicken breasts in the pan, season evenly with salt, pepper, and the remaining two minced garlic cloves.
- Spread the ricotta and spinach mixture evenly over the chicken breasts. Cover the chicken completely with marinara sauce.
- Bake for about 18-22 minutes or until the thickest part of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. For thicker chicken breasts, it may take an additional 5 minutes or more. In the last several minutes, sprinkle shredded Parmesan on top and continue baking until melted and golden.
- Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator, and note that the flavors tend to deepen, making leftovers even more delightful.
Notes:
For an extra burst of freshness, garnish with chopped basil or parsley before serving. Experiment with different marinara sauces for varied flavor profiles. If you have leftover spinach and ricotta mixture, it makes a fantastic stuffing for pasta shells or a filling for stuffed mushrooms.
