Looking to elevate your family dinner with a comforting and wholesome dish? Our Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken is an ideal recipe that brings together the tender juiciness of chicken breasts and the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, all with the freshness of spinach in a tangy tomato sauce. This recipe is a must-try for fans of Italian-inspired dishes and those seeking a fulfilling, nutritious meal. Let’s dive in and create something that’s both easy to make and guaranteed to impress!
Introduction: A Comforting Italian-inspired Classic
Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken is an Italian-American dish that combines the best of Mediterranean flavors in a way that’s simple and accessible. Imagine tender chicken breasts nestled in a homemade tomato sauce, topped with a blend of ricotta and spinach, then baked to golden perfection with a melty mozzarella finish. This family-friendly recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions. It’s a delightful combination of rich and fresh flavors that anyone can enjoy.
Ingredients for Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need for this recipe. Each ingredient has been carefully selected to bring out the best flavors in the dish.
Ricotta Spinach Mixture:
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 3 large handfuls of spinach, roughly chopped
- 270g (9.5 oz) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- Low-calorie spray
- 15g (0.5 oz) Parmesan cheese
- 50g (1.8 oz) mozzarella cheese
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 160g or 5.6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to season
- Low-calorie spray
Tomato Sauce:
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 1 clove of garlic, crushed
- A pinch of Italian mixed herbs
- 240g (1 cup) passata
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken stock
Optional Substitutions:
- Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta with a dairy-free ricotta alternative and use dairy-free mozzarella.
- Low Sodium: Use a low-sodium chicken stock to reduce salt content without losing flavor.
How to Make Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken – Step by Step
Step1: Prepare the Ricotta Spinach Mixture
- Preheat an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Spray it lightly with low-calorie cooking spray.
- Add the spinach and garlic, stirring until the spinach just begins to wilt, about 2 minutes.
- Transfer the spinach mixture to a bowl, add the ricotta and egg, and mix until well combined. Set aside.
Step2: Season and Sear the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board, cover them with cling film, and gently flatten each breast with a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking.
- Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Reheat the skillet, spray it with low-calorie cooking spray, and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly golden. Set aside.
Step3: Make the Tomato Sauce
- Spray the skillet again with cooking spray. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 3-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the passata, tomato paste, Italian herbs, and chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken for about 15 minutes.
Step4: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat the oven to 160°C fan (180°C or 350°F).
- Once the sauce has thickened, place the seared chicken breasts back in the skillet on top of the sauce.
- Spoon the ricotta-spinach mixture onto each chicken breast, then top with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Helpful Tips for Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken
- Use Fresh Spinach for the best flavor and nutrition.
- Season the Chicken Well before cooking; this enhances the overall taste.
- Cook the Tomato Sauce Thoroughly to allow the flavors to deepen and the sauce to thicken.
Cooking Tips for the Best Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken
- Preheat the Skillet and Oven: Ensuring that the skillet and oven are hot before cooking helps the ingredients cook evenly.
- Do Not Overcook the Chicken: Bake only until the cheese is golden to keep the chicken tender.
- Use Oven-Proof Skillet for Efficiency: This dish can be prepared entirely in one skillet, which minimizes cleanup and enhances flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken
Pair this dish with a light side such as a Caesar salad, or add a more hearty option like garlic butter pasta for a full Italian-inspired dinner. Serve with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay to complement the creamy flavors of the ricotta and spinach.
Nutritional Information
This dish is packed with protein and essential vitamins, especially from the spinach, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. It’s a lower-carb option that still feels indulgent.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Protein: 42g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fats: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
Storage and Leftovers for Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken
To store, let the chicken cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, place it in an oven-safe dish at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken
- Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well. Place individual portions in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating. - Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of passata?
Yes, blend fresh tomatoes to create a smooth sauce, or use crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture. - Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as thighs may need a bit longer to cook through. - What can I substitute for mozzarella?
Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese would work well as an alternative, adding a different but delicious flavor profile.
Related Recipes for Chicken and Cheese Lovers:
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole with Cornbread – A Hearty Meal
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix – Easy and Tasty
These recipes offer similar comfort-food appeal and pair wonderfully as part of a larger meal.
Conclusion
Bring a touch of Italy to your kitchen with this Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you, so please leave your feedback or your own twist on this delicious dish in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken – Easy Family Recipe
Description
Looking to elevate your family dinner with a comforting and wholesome dish? Our Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken is an ideal recipe that brings together the tender juiciness of chicken breasts and the creamy richness of ricotta cheese, all with the freshness of spinach in a tangy tomato sauce. This recipe is a must-try for fans of Italian-inspired dishes and those seeking a fulfilling, nutritious meal. Let’s dive in and create something that’s both easy to make and guaranteed to impress!
Ingredients
For the Ricotta Spinach Mixture:
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 3 large handfuls of spinach, roughly chopped
- 270g (9.5 oz) ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- Low-calorie spray
- 15g (0.5 oz) Parmesan cheese
- 50g (1.8 oz) mozzarella cheese
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 160g or 5.6 oz each)
- Salt and black pepper, to season
- Low-calorie spray
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 1 clove of garlic, crushed
- A pinch of Italian mixed herbs
- 240g (1 cup) passata
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken stock
Optional Substitutions:
- Dairy-Free: Substitute ricotta with a dairy-free ricotta alternative and use dairy-free mozzarella.
- Low Sodium: Use a low-sodium chicken stock to reduce salt content without losing flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Spinach Mixture
- Preheat an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Spray it lightly with low-calorie cooking spray.
- Add the spinach and garlic, stirring until the spinach just begins to wilt, about 2 minutes.
- Transfer the spinach mixture to a bowl, add the ricotta and egg, and mix until well combined. Set aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
- Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board, cover them with cling film, and gently flatten each breast with a meat mallet. This ensures even cooking.
- Season both sides with salt and black pepper.
- Reheat the skillet, spray it with low-calorie cooking spray, and sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly golden. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce
- Spray the skillet again with cooking spray. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for 3-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the passata, tomato paste, Italian herbs, and chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken for about 15 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Preheat the oven to 160°C fan (180°C or 350°F).
- Once the sauce has thickened, place the seared chicken breasts back in the skillet on top of the sauce.
- Spoon the ricotta-spinach mixture onto each chicken breast, then top with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Use Fresh Spinach for the best flavor and nutrition.
- Season the Chicken Well before cooking; this enhances the overall taste.
- Cook the Tomato Sauce Thoroughly to allow the flavors to deepen and the sauce to thicken.
