Spinach Ricotta Chicken
Spinach Ricotta Chicken has a special place in my heart. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was one of those spontaneous evenings when I wanted to impress a friend with my cooking skills. I rummaged through my pantry, discovering a treasure trove of ingredients just waiting to come together. The creamy blend of ricotta and spinach paired with juicy chicken made my kitchen smell heavenly. Every bite was like a warm hug, reminding me of home-cooked meals shared during family gatherings. It’s not just a dish; it’s an experience that transforms an ordinary evening into something truly memorable. So, grab your apron and get ready to whip up this delicious wonder!
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Medium
400 kcal
36 g
Keto, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
24 g
Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Baking Sheet, Oven
What Sets This Spinach Ricotta Chicken Apart
Health Benefits
Not only is Spinach Ricotta Chicken a flavor powerhouse, but it also packs a health punch! The spinach is loaded with iron and vitamins A and C, which are essential for boosting your immune system. When combined with chicken, you’re getting a perfect source of lean protein that helps in muscle building and repair.
Easy to Make
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can whip up a gourmet meal that looks and tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the reasons I love Spinach Ricotta Chicken is its suitability for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. Just reheat and serve, and you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time.
Versatile Serving Options
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides, from a fresh salad to rice or quinoa. You can easily adjust the sides based on your dietary preferences or whatever you have on hand.
Kid-Friendly
Kids love this dish! The creamy texture and flavors are inviting, making it easier to sneak in those greens. It’s a clever way to introduce spinach into their diet without them even knowing.
Impressive Presentation
When plated, Spinach Ricotta Chicken looks gorgeous. The vibrant green of the spinach and the melted parmesan on top create a feast for the eyes as well as the palate, making it perfect for dinner parties.
Spinach Ricotta Chicken Ingredients
The ingredients for Spinach Ricotta Chicken are not only simple but complement each other beautifully. The creamy ricotta blends perfectly with the fresh spinach, while the chicken provides a hearty base. Each element plays a crucial role in delivering flavor and texture, making this dish a complete meal.
- 1 ½ lb chicken breast (3-4), pounded to even thickness, approx. 1 inch – This serves as the main protein, ensuring your meal is satisfying.
- ½ tsp cracked pepper – A touch of spice to enhance flavor.
- ½ tsp sea salt – Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese – The creamy base that makes this dish rich.
- 1 cup fresh chopped spinach – Provides freshness and nutrition.
- ½ cup parmesan cheese, shredded – Adds a savory and cheesy layer.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that elevates the flavor profile.
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper – To bring a hint of heat.
- 1 ½ cup marinara sauce – The perfect topping to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.
- Extra parmesan for topping, about ¼ to ⅓ cup – For a delicious, cheesy finish.
How to Make Spinach Ricotta Chicken
Making Spinach Ricotta Chicken is as delightful as it sounds! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a dish that impresses everyone. This process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting meal that’s hard to resist.
- Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. This step is crucial as it ensures your chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, shredded parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, one minced garlic clove, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are fully combined.
- Next, spray the bottom of a 9×13 pan or a large baking dish with oil. This prevents the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Line the chicken breasts in the pan, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Season them with sea salt, cracked pepper, and the remaining minced garlic cloves to enhance the flavor.
- Spread the creamy ricotta mixture evenly over the top of the chicken breasts. Make sure to cover them completely for maximum flavor.
- Pour the marinara sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s fully covered. This will keep the chicken moist while baking.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the chicken is done when the thickest section reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- In the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded parmesan on top of the chicken. This will melt beautifully and create a deliciously cheesy crust.
- Once cooked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture.
- Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully, making the leftovers even better!
Things Worth Knowing
- Thickness Matters: If there are major differences in the thickness of your chicken breasts, consider pounding the thicker pieces down slightly to ensure even cooking.
- Ricotta Variations: Any kind of ricotta should work for this recipe, but I prefer using whole milk ricotta for the best flavor.
- No Spinach? No Problem: If you don’t have spinach, you can still make this dish delicious! While it won’t technically be “Spinach Ricotta Chicken” anymore, it will still be amazing without it.
- Watch for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
Helpful Notes about Spinach Ricotta Chicken
To get the most out of your Spinach Ricotta Chicken, here are some helpful notes to keep in mind. These tips will ensure your dish is a hit every time!
- Storage: Store any leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Pairing: Serve with a fresh salad or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
- Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor and color.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice over the top before serving for a zesty finish.
- Preparation Tip: Prepare the ricotta mixture a day ahead for an even quicker assembly during cooking.
What to Serve Alongside Spinach Ricotta Chicken
- Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the richness of Spinach Ricotta Chicken.
- Herbed Rice: Fluffy herbed rice adds a great texture and complements the flavors well.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious marinara sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Add some steamed broccoli or asparagus for a colorful and healthy side.
- Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, weekend gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
- Seasonal Pairings: In summer, consider pairing with grilled vegetables, while in winter, roasted root veggies are a great choice.
FAQ
Conclusion
Spinach Ricotta Chicken is a delightful meal that combines comfort with flavor. The rich ricotta and vibrant spinach create a dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table. I encourage you to try this recipe on a cozy evening or for a gathering with friends and family. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Spinach Ricotta Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F.
- In a bowl, mix together the ricotta, parmesan, spinach, one garlic clove, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper until fully combined.
- Spray the bottom of a 9×13 pan, or large baking dish with oil. Line the chicken breasts in the pan and evenly season with sea salt, pepper and 2 of the garlic cloves.
- Spread the ricotta and spinach mixture over the top of the chicken breasts evenly. Cover the chicken completely with the marinara.
- Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the thickest section of the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. (For thicker chicken breasts, this could take much longer.)
- In the last several minutes, add shredded parmesan on top of the chicken and continue baking to melt.
- Allow chicken to rest about 5 minutes before serving.
- Store leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Leftovers of this chicken are even better!
Notes
- Tip 1: If there are major differences in the thickness of the chicken breasts, you can pound the thicker pieces down slightly.
- Tip 2: Any kind of ricotta should work for this recipe. I prefer whole milk ricotta.
- Tip 3: No spinach? No problem! While it won’t technically be “Spinach Ricotta Chicken” anymore, it will still be amazing.
