Spinach Ricotta Chicken Recipe
Spinach Ricotta Chicken Recipe
Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Tender chicken breasts filled or topped with a creamy blend of spinach, ricotta, and cheese—baked to golden, melty perfection. A nutritious and flavorful main course that feels special but is easy to prepare.
🛒 Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (or ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella (plus extra for topping, optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly grease a baking dish or use an oven-safe skillet.
2. Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine:
- Ricotta
- Spinach
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
- Garlic
- Italian seasoning
- Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using)
Mix until creamy and well blended.
3. Prepare the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry.
- Cut a pocket into the thickest side of each breast (do not slice all the way through).
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon filling into each pocket (or layer on top if preferred).
- Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
4. Optional: Sear for Extra Flavor
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear each side of the stuffed chicken for 2–3 minutes until lightly browned.
5. Bake
- Transfer chicken to baking dish if not already in one.
- Sprinkle extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top (optional).
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- For a golden top, broil for the final 2–3 minutes.
6. Rest & Serve
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes
- Pasta with light tomato or Alfredo sauce
- Roasted vegetables (asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers)
- A green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Crusty bread for dipping
💡 Tips & Variations
- Frozen Spinach Tip: Squeeze out all moisture to prevent watery filling.
- Lighter Option: Use part-skim ricotta and mozzarella.
- Want a sauce? Drizzle with marinara or a light cream sauce before baking for a saucy Italian twist.
- No stuffing? Simply layer filling on top of the chicken and bake.