Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken: The Ultimate Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Name: Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 3 large chicken breasts, skinless and boneless; 6 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed (Excess liquid squeezed out); 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3.75 cup ricotta cheese (Whole or part-skim); 0.25 cup shredded parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 to taste salt; 1 to taste pepper

Introduction to Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a juicy, tender chicken breast stuffed with a creamy filling. Our Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This dish combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the freshness of spinach and herbs, creating a flavor explosion that will impress your family and friends.

A Personal Story Behind My Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Journey

Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for hearty meals. One dish that always stood out was stuffed chicken. My grandmother had a unique way of preparing it, filling it with her homemade ricotta and fresh herbs from the garden. Inspired by her, I created my version that incorporates spinach for added nutrition and flavor. This dish brings back fond memories and encourages me to share it with others.

What Makes This Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Recipe Special?

This Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken recipe is special for many reasons. First, it’s versatile—you can easily customize the filling to include your favorite ingredients, such as sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts. Second, the combination of ricotta and parmesan cheeses provides a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken. Finally, the dish is baked to perfection, ensuring that it remains juicy and flavorful, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.

The Full Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Recipe

Ingredients

3 large chicken breasts, skinless and boneless
6 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and excess liquid squeezed out
3 cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup ricotta cheese, whole or part-skim
1/4 cup shredded parmesan cheese
Olive oil
1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Pre-soak 6 toothpicks in water for 15 minutes while preparing the chicken to prevent burning.

Preheat the oven to 400°F.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Tip: Keep an eye on the garlic to prevent it from burning. Add spinach and cook for an additional minute to remove excess moisture. Transfer to a mixing bowl.
Add ricotta, parmesan cheese, and a few drizzles of olive oil to the spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Mix well.

Pat the chicken breasts dry. Cut horizontal pockets along the side of each chicken breast, deep enough to hold the filling without cutting through.
Stuff the chicken with the spinach mixture, then secure the openings with the pre-soaked toothpicks.
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Tip: Searing gives the chicken a beautiful color and enhances the flavor.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If using a non-ovenproof skillet, transfer the chicken to a baking sheet.
Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Serving Suggestions and Variations for Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken

This Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken pairs beautifully with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. For a more hearty meal, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or quinoa. If you’re looking to switch things up, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or chopped artichoke hearts to the filling for an extra burst of flavor. You can also try different cheese combinations, such as feta or goat cheese, for a unique twist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Herbed Ricotta Stuffed Chicken

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the stuffed chicken and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before cooking.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese? If you’re looking for a substitute, cottage cheese can work well, but you might want to blend it for a smoother texture. Cream cheese is another option, though it will change the flavor slightly.

How do I know when the chicken is done? The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure it’s cooked through without being dry.

Can I freeze the stuffed chicken? Yes, you can freeze the uncooked stuffed chicken. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking.