Imagine a dish that combines the tender juiciness of perfectly cooked chicken, the creamy richness of ricotta, and the vibrant freshness of spinach - all melted together in one irresistible meal. This Chicken with Spinach and Ricotta isn't just another dinner recipe; it's a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary evening into a gourmet celebration. Whether you're a home cook looking to impress your family or a food enthusiast seeking a delightful Italian-inspired dish, this recipe promises to elevate your cooking game and satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the chicken.
- Rinse the chicken breasts under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the fresh spinach. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until wilted. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Once the spinach is wilted, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, add the spinach to the ricotta and mozzarella mixture. Stir until well combined.
- Take the cooked chicken breasts and place them in a baking dish. Using a spoon, generously fill each chicken breast with the spinach and ricotta mixture.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the stuffed chicken breasts for added flavor and a cheesy topping.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve the chicken with your favorite side dishes, such as a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. Enjoy your delicious Chicken with Spinach and Ricotta!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe and juicy results.
- Cheese Selection Matters: Use fresh, high-quality ricotta for the creamiest filling. If possible, choose whole milk ricotta for richer flavor.
- Spinach Preparation: Thoroughly drain and pat dry the sautéed spinach to prevent excess moisture in your filling.
- Even Seasoning: Season your chicken breasts generously and evenly for maximum flavor in every bite.
- Cheese Melting Trick: For a golden, bubbly cheese topping, broil the dish for 1-2 minutes after baking if you want extra browning.
- Resting Time: Let the chicken rest for 3-5 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender result.
- Customization: Feel free to add herbs like basil or oregano to the ricotta mixture for an extra flavor dimension.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 125mg
