Simple Baked Spinach Ricotta Chicken Recipe

When I first visited Italy, I was struck by how effortlessly Italians turn simple ingredients into masterpieces. This Simple Baked Spinach Ricotta Chicken Recipe reminds me of that very charming rich in flavor, yet beautifully uncomplicated. 

Originating from the heart of Italian home cooking, this dish captures the essence of Mediterranean comfort food, fresh herbs, creamy cheeses, and a touch of tomato warmth. 

It’s the kind of meal that transports you straight to a cozy trattoria in Tuscany or Emilia-Romagna, where food is made with love and simplicity. 

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to a delicious meal. For this recipe, fresh components make all the difference in creating a vibrant and flavorful dish.

• 1 ½ lb chicken breast – Try to use breasts that are similar in size and thickness for even cooking.
• ½ tsp cracked pepper – Freshly cracked pepper provides a more pungent and aromatic flavor than pre-ground.
• ½ tsp sea salt – Sea salt enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and the sauce.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced and separated – Using fresh garlic is key; its sharp, savory flavor is essential for the filling and seasoning the chicken.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – Whole milk ricotta will give you the creamiest, richest texture, but a lower-fat version also works well.
• 1 cup fresh chopped spinach – Fresh spinach is best. If you must use frozen, thaw it completely and squeeze out all excess water to avoid a watery filling.
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, shredded – For the best melt, grate your own Parmesan. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A simple blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme that brings classic Italian flavor.
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper – This adds a subtle warmth to the ricotta filling, but you can adjust it to your preference.
• 1 ½ cup marinara sauce – Use your favorite jarred marinara sauce. A high-quality sauce can elevate the entire dish.
• Extra parmesan for topping – A little extra cheese melted on top during the last few minutes of baking creates a perfect finish.

Note: These ingredient quantities will yield approximately 4 servings.

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add More Veggies: Mix in some chopped artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms into the ricotta filling for extra flavor and texture.
• Cheese Swaps: Feel free to substitute the parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a saltier, sharper taste, or add some shredded mozzarella to the filling for an extra cheesy pull.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy more heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper or add a finely diced jalapeño to the ricotta mixture.
• Make it Dairy-Free: Use a high-quality, plant-based ricotta and parmesan cheese alternative to create a dairy-free version of this dish.

If you’re a fan of bold flavors, this dish will remind you of the creamy spice and comfort found in a Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta Recipe both rich, satisfying, and full of personality.

Cooking Time

This meal feels special enough for a Sunday dinner but is quick enough for a weeknight.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

You won’t need any specialized tools for this recipe, just some kitchen essentials.

• 9×13 inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for arranging the chicken breasts without overcrowding them.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining the delicious spinach and ricotta filling ingredients.
• Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe and perfect internal temperature.

How to Make Simple Baked Spinach Ricotta Chicken?

This recipe is all about layering simple, flavorful components to create a fantastic meal. There are no complicated techniques, just a straightforward process of assembling and baking. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a creamy, savory topping that tastes like it came from a restaurant.

Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Filling

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, chopped fresh spinach, shredded parmesan, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper. Add one of the minced garlic cloves to the mixture. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and set it aside for a moment.

Step 2: Season and Top the Chicken

Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking oil. Arrange the chicken breasts in a single layer inside the dish. Season the chicken evenly with salt, pepper, and the remaining two minced garlic cloves. Next, divide the spinach and ricotta mixture evenly among the chicken breasts, spreading it over the top of each one.

Step 3: Add Marinara and Bake

Pour the marinara sauce over the ricotta-topped chicken, covering it completely. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. The cooking time can vary based on the thickness of your chicken, so use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 4: Add Final Topping and Rest

During the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle the extra parmesan cheese over the top of the chicken and allow it to melt into a golden, bubbly crust. Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and moist result.

🇮🇹 Taste of Tuscany: The Heart of Italian Comfort Food

In Italy, food is more than nourishment; it’s a reflection of culture, geography, and passion. 

This Baked Spinach Ricotta Chicken draws inspiration from Tuscany, a region celebrated for its rolling vineyards, sun-drenched hills, and rustic cuisine. 

Tuscan dishes emphasize fresh, local ingredients like olive oil, cheese, and herb,s simple yet deeply flavorful. 

Much like a Keto Italian Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe, this baked spinach ricotta version highlights the harmony of protein, cheese, and greens balanced, satisfying, and rich in heritage.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

I’ve made this dish many times, and I’ve learned a few things that help make it truly foolproof and delicious.

• I always try to select chicken breasts that are similar in thickness. If one is much thicker, I’ll pound it down slightly so everything cooks at the same rate.
• For me, squeezing every last drop of water from the spinach (if using frozen) is critical. I once skipped this and the filling was a bit watery, so now I make sure it’s as dry as possible.
• Don’t be afraid to try different marinara sauces. I’ve found that a spicy arrabbiata sauce adds a wonderful kick, while a roasted garlic sauce brings a deeper, sweeter flavor.
• Leftovers are fantastic, but I find the texture is best when I reheat it in the oven or a toaster oven rather than the microwave. It helps keep the topping from getting soggy.

How to Serve Simple Baked Spinach Ricotta Chicken?

In Italy, meals are not just eaten, they’re experienced. To serve this dish authentically, pair it with a side of buttery polenta, roasted vegetables, or al dente pasta to soak up the luscious marinara. 

Add a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh basil for that final Tuscan touch. Best enjoyed with a glass of Chianti wine, , just as you would with a cozy Chicken Piccata Pasta Recipe both share that comforting Italian charm in every bite. 🇮🇹

Nutritional Information

Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving of this recipe.

• Calories: 377 kcal
• Protein: 49g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 16g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is great for meal prep or enjoying as leftovers. Proper storage will keep it tasting great.

Storing

Allow the chicken to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors often meld and taste even better the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to 2 months. Place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before you plan to reheat it.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the chicken in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps the topping stay creamy and prevents the chicken from becoming rubbery, which can sometimes happen in a microwave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This simple baked chicken dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation for several reasons.

• Incredibly Easy: With minimal prep and a straightforward baking process, this recipe delivers a gourmet-tasting meal with very little effort.
• Full of Flavor: The creamy ricotta, savory parmesan, fresh spinach, and rich marinara create a complex and satisfying flavor profile that feels comforting and impressive.
• Great for Any Occasion: It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but also elegant enough to serve to guests or for a special occasion.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Even picky eaters tend to love the cheesy, saucy topping and tender chicken.