Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

A quick and easy baked chicken dish topped with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, marinara sauce, and parmesan cheese, perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners.

  • Total Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ lb chicken breasts
  • ½ tsp cracked black pepper
  • ½ tsp sea salt
  • 3 garlic cloves, divided and minced
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup fresh chopped spinach
  • ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
  • Extra parmesan for topping (about ¼–⅓ cup)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, chopped spinach, shredded parmesan, 1 clove minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well.
  4. Place chicken breasts in the baking dish in a single layer.
  5. Season chicken with sea salt, cracked black pepper, and the remaining 2 cloves minced garlic.
  6. Spread the ricotta-spinach mixture generously over each chicken breast.
  7. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the chicken and topping.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  9. During the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle extra parmesan on top and return to the oven until bubbly and golden.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked perfectly and remains juicy., Serve alongside garlic bread or zucchini noodles for a complete meal., Make ahead by assembling up to 24 hours in advance and bake when ready., Frozen spinach can be used if fresh is unavailable; thaw and drain well before use., Optional swaps: chicken thighs or turkey cutlets for protein; cottage cheese or cream cheese instead of ricotta; kale instead of spinach (sauté before mixing); pesto or tomato-cream sauce instead of marinara; add cooked mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or Italian sausage for extra flavor., Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for 2-3 months. Reheat in oven or microwave as needed.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with toppings
  • Calories: Approx. 350-400 kcal per serving
  • Fat: Approx. 18g per serving
  • Carbohydrates: Approx. 8g per serving
  • Protein: Approx. 35g per serving