Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken

Are you on the lookout for a delicious and family-friendly meal that offers the perfect balance of comfort, nutrition, and flavor? Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken is the answer! This Italian-inspired dish combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the freshness of spinach, all atop succulent chicken breasts, finished off with a flavorful tomato sauce. It’s a dish that is both easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress your family and guests.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken, from ingredient selection to cooking tips, and even serving suggestions. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken

This recipe is a fantastic way to introduce new flavors into your weekly dinner rotation while keeping things easy and approachable. Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken is not only delicious but also nutritious, featuring lean chicken, fiber-rich spinach, and calcium-packed ricotta cheese. It’s a one-pan wonder, which means minimal cleanup – a bonus for busy families.

Here’s what makes this dish shine:

• Flavors: The creamy ricotta blends beautifully with the spinach, creating a delicious, rich topping for the chicken. The tangy tomato sauce underneath adds depth and sweetness.
• Nutrition: With protein-packed chicken, nutrient-dense spinach, and the addition of ricotta for extra calcium, this dish is balanced and satisfying without being heavy.
• Ease: It’s a one-pan dish that comes together in about 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, yet impressive enough for a special occasion.

Ingredients for Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken

Before you begin, gather the ingredients you’ll need. They’re mostly pantry staples and fresh items, making it a straightforward recipe that’s easy to customize.

For the Ricotta Spinach Mixture:

• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 3 large handfuls of spinach, roughly chopped (fresh spinach works best)
• 270g (9.5 oz) ricotta cheese – You can use part-skim ricotta for a lighter option
• 1 large egg – This helps bind the ricotta mixture
• Low-calorie cooking spray – For greasing the skillet
• 15g (0.5 oz) Parmesan cheese, grated – Adds a sharp, salty flavor
• 50g (1.8 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded – Melts beautifully on top

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (around 160g or 5.6 oz each) – You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier cut
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Low-calorie cooking spray – For searing the chicken

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 onion, finely diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce
• 1 clove garlic, crushed
• A pinch of Italian mixed herbs – For that Mediterranean flavor
• 240g (1 cup) passata – This is a smooth, strained tomato product that works perfectly in sauces
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste – Concentrated flavor for extra richness
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken stock – Adds depth to the sauce

Optional Substitutions:

• Dairy-Free: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, swap out the ricotta for a plant-based ricotta alternative and use dairy-free mozzarella.
• Low Sodium: For a lower-sodium option, use a reduced-sodium chicken stock and skip the added salt in the sauce.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken

Now, let’s walk through the process of preparing this delicious dish.

Step 1: Prepare the Ricotta Spinach Mixture

The first step is to make the spinach and ricotta mixture that will be placed on top of the chicken. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat, then lightly spray it with low-calorie cooking spray. Add the spinach and garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until the spinach just begins to wilt. This step ensures the spinach releases its moisture and softens up for the mixture.

Transfer the spinach and garlic to a bowl. In the same bowl, add the ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella. Mix everything together until smooth. The ricotta will be creamy, while the mozzarella and Parmesan will add flavor and texture. Set this aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the ricotta mixture is resting, it’s time to prepare the chicken. Lay the chicken breasts flat on a cutting board and cover them with plastic wrap. Using a meat mallet, gently pound each chicken breast to an even thickness (about 1 inch thick). This ensures they cook evenly.

Season both sides of the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper. Preheat the same skillet over medium-high heat and lightly spray it with cooking spray. Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown. Remember, you’re not cooking the chicken through at this point – just getting a nice sear on the outside.

Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

Now, let’s prepare the tomato sauce. In the same skillet (don’t clean it, as you want to keep the flavor from the chicken), add another light spray of cooking spray. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté them for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion softens and becomes translucent. This is the base of your sauce.

Next, stir in the passata, tomato paste, and chicken stock. Add the Italian mixed herbs for extra flavor. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to make sure it doesn’t burn.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

While the sauce simmers, preheat your oven to 160°C (180°C or 350°F).

Once the sauce has thickened, return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, placing them on top of the sauce. Spoon the ricotta-spinach mixture evenly over each chicken breast, making sure to cover the top completely. Then, sprinkle additional Parmesan and mozzarella cheese on top.

Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and bake it in the oven for about 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

Cooking Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach is best because it wilts down beautifully and retains its vibrant green color. If you use frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove any excess water.
• Preheat Your Skillet: Ensuring that the skillet is hot before searing the chicken helps lock in moisture and flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: The chicken will continue cooking while it bakes in the oven, so be sure not to overcook it during the searing process. You just need a golden, crisp exterior.
• Simmer the Sauce: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps concentrate the flavors, making it richer and tastier.

Serving Suggestions for Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken

Pair this flavorful dish with complementary sides to make it a complete meal:

• Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crisp greens contrast nicely with the richness of the chicken.
• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli will add a fresh touch and enhance the dish’s Mediterranean flavor.
• Pasta: Serve with a side of pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, to make the meal more hearty.
• Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay will complement the dish’s richness without overpowering the flavors.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional value of Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken, per serving (1 chicken breast with sauce):

• Calories: 410 kcal
• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fat: 23g
• Fiber: 2g

This dish is an excellent source of protein, low in carbs, and rich in vitamins, especially from the spinach. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let the chicken cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. To reheat, simply place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and bake it at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.

Freezing Tip: If you’d like to prepare this dish in advance, it freezes well. Simply assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as instructed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work perfectly in this recipe. They’re slightly juicier and will require a slightly longer cooking time.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire dish a day ahead, then bake it just before serving. Alternatively, you can prepare it, refrigerate it, and then bake it the next day.

Can I substitute the ricotta with something else?

If you prefer, you can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese or a dairy-free ricotta alternative. The texture may change slightly, but the dish will still be delicious.

Conclusion

Ricotta Spinach Topped Chicken is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights when you want something nutritious, comforting, and easy to make. With the creamy ricotta-spinach topping, tender chicken, and savory tomato sauce, this dish is a sure-fire winner for your family dinner. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that minimizes cleanup, making it as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy.

Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting guests, this dish is a flavorful, nutritious, and impressive option. Give it a try today and discover how simple it can be to make a restaurant-quality meal at home!