What pairs well with ricotta cheese?

Ricotta is incredibly versatile—it pairs beautifully with fresh herbs, citrus zest, leafy greens, and milder meats like chicken or turkey. You can even mix it with lemon juice or balsamic glaze for contrast. For side dishes, I often serve it with my grilled zucchini salad or a crusty slice of herbed focaccia bread. Sweet ingredients like figs or honey also go surprisingly well with ricotta, but in this savory chicken recipe, focus on garlic, spinach, and citrus to bring out its full flavor.

Can you use ricotta cheese to stuff chicken breast?

Yes—ricotta is one of the best cheeses for stuffing chicken breasts. It holds together well without becoming greasy or runny in the oven. I like to combine it with fresh garlic, sautéed spinach, and a little Parmesan. It turns the chicken into a creamy, protein-rich entrée that still feels light. Toothpicks or kitchen twine help hold the stuffing in place while it bakes.

Do chicken and cheese go well together?

Absolutely. While some cheeses can overpower chicken, soft cheeses like ricotta complement it without masking its flavor. This pairing works especially well when baked together, as the cheese adds moisture and creaminess. Think of classics like chicken Parmesan or my cheddar-stuffed baked chicken for other tasty examples.

Is ricotta cheese good for cooking?

Yes—and not just for lasagna. Ricotta holds its shape when heated, making it great for stuffing, layering, or even baking into savory pies. It’s lower in fat than many other cheeses and blends easily with herbs and vegetables. Try it in stuffed shells or mixed into mashed potatoes for a creamy boost.

Chicken with Ricotta Cheese: Easy, Creamy Dinner Perfection

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese

1 egg

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp lemon zest

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

1/4 cup grated Parmesan (optional for topping)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg, garlic, lemon zest, parsley, salt, and pepper.

3. Slice a pocket into the side of each chicken breast without cutting through.

4. Stuff each breast with 2–3 tablespoons of the ricotta mixture.

5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.

6. Sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side until golden.

7. Top with Parmesan if using.

8. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 18–22 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

9. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or pesto to the ricotta mix for extra flavor. Use a toothpick to secure if the filling leaks. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Author: hafsa saffaji
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
Calories: 385
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 120mg

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