Creamy Spinach Ricotta Chicken Traybake Recipe
Introduction
This Spinach Ricotta Chicken Traybake is a simple, flavorful dish perfect for a hassle-free dinner. Combining tender chicken with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, it’s a wholesome meal cooked all in one tray.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking tray, arrange the chicken breasts evenly.
- Step 2: In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese with the minced garlic and fresh spinach. Spread this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Step 3: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and juices run clear.
- Step 4: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking.
- Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard if preferred.
- Add cherry tomatoes to the tray for a burst of sweetness and color.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper or your favorite herbs before baking.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through to keep the chicken moist and the ricotta creamy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used. Make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess moisture before mixing it with the ricotta.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. This traybake reheats well and can be portioned for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
PrintCreamy Spinach Ricotta Chicken Traybake Recipe
A simple and wholesome Spinach Ricotta Chicken Traybake featuring juicy chicken breasts topped with creamy ricotta and fresh spinach, baked together to perfection for an easy yet flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each)
Spinach
- 4 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
Ricotta
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
Garlic
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and tray: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking tray or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Assemble the ingredients: Place the chicken breasts evenly spaced on the prepared tray. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure proper baking.
- Add garlic and spinach topping: Mix the minced garlic with the chopped fresh spinach, then evenly distribute this mixture over each chicken breast, pressing it down slightly to adhere.
- Top with ricotta: Spoon the ricotta cheese over the spinach layer on each chicken breast, covering it generously but evenly.
- Bake the traybake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is cooked through, with the ricotta starting to turn lightly golden.
- Rest and serve: Remove from oven and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices and enhance flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, just be sure to thaw and drain excess water before using.
- Adding herbs such as basil or oregano to the ricotta mixture can enhance the flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfectly cooked chicken without drying it out.
- This traybake pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad.
Keywords: Spinach Ricotta Chicken Traybake, baked chicken, healthy chicken dinner, ricotta chicken recipe, easy chicken dinner
