Creamy Spinach Ricotta Chicken

Creamy Spinach Ricotta Chicken baked with marinara and mozzarella—an easy, comforting dinner with rich flavor and minimal prep.

This dish layers tender chicken with a creamy ricotta and spinach mixture, finished with marinara and melted mozzarella for a balanced, satisfying bake. The ricotta adds richness without heaviness, while the spinach brings subtle texture and flavor. It’s a straightforward, oven-baked meal that delivers depth without complicated steps.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Big lasagna energy, minus the noodles and extra steps
• Simple ingredients with balanced, layered flavor
• Reliable for weeknights but polished enough for guests
• Creamy, savory, and satisfying without being overly heavy
• Leftovers hold up well for reheating

Making Creamy Spinach Ricotta Chicken

1. First, preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Next, spread half of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 13×9-inch baking dish.
3. Then, cut chicken breasts into large evenly-sized chunks, which is important for even cooking. Arrange over the sauce.
4. Season the chicken with 1/2 tsp. salt and black pepper.
5. Then, in a medium bowl, combine ricotta, spinach (well-drained), egg, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and remaining 1/2 tsp. salt.
6. Next, spoon the ricotta mixture over the chicken. Use back of spoon to gently press down and spread.
7. Then, top with the remaining marinara sauce.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
9. Lastly, remove foil, add mozzarella, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes until melted and bubbly.
10. Rest briefly before serving, and garnish if desired.

Pro Tips

• Thoroughly drain the spinach to prevent excess moisture (NOTE: fresh spinach can be substituted, but would need to be sautéed and well drained before adding)
• Evenly sized chicken ensures consistent cooking (you can also slice horizontally)
• Use a marinara with good flavor—it’s a key component
• Let the dish rest before serving for better structure

How to Customize Creamy Spinach Ricotta Chicken

• Add sautéed mushrooms or onions for extra depth
• Substitute mozzarella with provolone or an Italian blend
• Add red pepper flakes for mild heat
• Swap out chicken breasts for thighs

Serving Suggestions

Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to absorb the sauce, or pair with a simple side salad for balance. For that fancy restaurant look, sprinkle tops with chopped fresh basil or parsley.

Looking for More Recipes Like This?

Search the site for “chicken,” “easy recipes,” or “casseroles” to find similar recipes with simple steps and strong flavor.

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Creamy Spinach Ricotta Chicken

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