Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and easy dinner recipe that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This creamy Chicken Ricotta recipe is packed with flavor and protein, making it a perfect weeknight meal for busy individuals and families alike. Forget complicated cooking; this recipe is incredibly simple, even for beginner cooks, and offers a fantastic way to enjoy homemade cooking at its finest. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4. Adjust quantities as needed for larger or smaller servings.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, parsley, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Combine and Bake:
Add the cooked chicken to the ricotta mixture and stir gently to coat. Pour the mixture into a greased 8x8 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection:
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy:
Let the Chicken Ricotta bake for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to serve. Serve warm and enjoy this delicious and healthy meal! It's wonderful on its own or paired with a simple side salad.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking.
Delicious Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Ricotta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Chicken Ricotta: Add sauteed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the ricotta mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Sun-dried Tomato Chicken Ricotta: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes into the ricotta mixture for a burst of intense flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 30-35g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This Chicken Ricotta recipe is a simple yet satisfying healthy meal option. It’s a fantastic example of how easy and quick it can be to prepare delicious food recipes at home. Try it tonight and discover a new favorite quick dinner idea!