The Ultimate Baked Ricotta Chicken Thighs Recipe: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

Regarding comfort food, few dishes can compete with the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors found in this Baked Ricotta Chicken Thighs recipe. It’s a dish that brings together the heartiness of baked chicken, the richness of ricotta cheese, and the satisfying flavor of marinara sauce, all topped off with gooey melted mozzarella. Whether you’re preparing a special meal for your family or looking to impress dinner guests, this easy-to-make recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Ricotta Chicken Thighs recipe is:

• Easy to Prepare – With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready in just about 40 minutes.
• Packed with Flavor – The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, ricotta, Parmesan, and marinara sauce gives the chicken an irresistible taste.
• Great for Meal Prep – This dish stores and reheats well, making it a fantastic option for leftovers or meal planning.
• Nutritious and Satisfying – Chicken thighs provide a good source of protein, while the cheese and sauce add calcium and essential nutrients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (divided)
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Preheating ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to develop properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This mixture will add a creamy, cheesy texture that complements the baked chicken perfectly. Set the bowl aside while you season the chicken.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is essential to achieving a crispy, golden-brown sear. Next, season the thighs on both sides with garlic powder and the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken thighs in the pan, smooth side down. Sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes or until the bottoms develop a rich, golden-brown crust. Flip the thighs and immediately remove the skillet from heat.

Step 5: Add the Toppings

Now it’s time to layer on the flavor! Top each chicken thigh with an equal amount of the ricotta cheese mixture, spreading it evenly over the surface. Then, spoon the marinara sauce over and around the chicken thighs, ensuring each piece is generously coated.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). You can check this with an instant-read thermometer.

Step 7: Melt the Mozzarella

Once the chicken is fully cooked, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over each thigh. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for another 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove the dish from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color and freshness. Serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

What to Serve with Baked Ricotta Chicken Thighs

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few great options:

• Garlic Butter Pasta – A simple buttered pasta with a hint of garlic enhances the Italian flavors in the chicken.
• Roasted Vegetables – Oven-roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers make a healthy and colorful addition.
• Crusty Bread – A warm baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra marinara sauce.
• Caesar Salad – A crisp, tangy Caesar salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes make this meal extra comforting and filling.

Tips for the Best Baked Ricotta Chicken Thighs

1. Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs: They stay juicier and more flavorful compared to boneless cuts.
2. Sear for Extra Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step—it locks in moisture and creates a golden crust.
3. Use High-Quality Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and good-quality ricotta make a noticeable difference in taste.
4. Don’t Overcook: Use a thermometer to check for doneness and prevent dry chicken.
5. Customize the Marinara: If you like extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, but the oven method preserves the texture better.

Can You Freeze This Dish?

Yes! This dish freezes well. Let the cooked chicken cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at **350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Variations to Try

If you want to put your own spin on this dish, here are some ideas:

• Spinach Ricotta Chicken – Add sautéed spinach to the ricotta mixture for extra greens and flavor.
• Mushroom Marinara Chicken – Sauté mushrooms and mix them into the marinara sauce before baking.
• Spicy Ricotta Chicken – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
• Pesto Ricotta Chicken – Replace the marinara sauce with pesto for a fresh, herby twist.

Final Thoughts

Baked Ricotta Chicken Thighs is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a delicious, home-cooked meal that’s easy to prepare. With its rich layers of cheese, flavorful marinara sauce, and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a fantastic choice. Try it today and enjoy the comforting flavors of this irresistible dish!