Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese is a simple yet flavorful dinner that comes together in just 40 minutes. The combination of sweet honey, tart cranberries, and creamy ricotta makes each bite a delightful experience. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional for crunch)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Step 2: Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
- Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly golden, then transfer to the prepared baking dish.
- Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together honey and balsamic vinegar. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the cranberries evenly over the top of the chicken breasts.
- Step 6: Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese over each chicken breast.
- Step 7: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cranberries are slightly caramelized.
- Step 8: If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a toasted crunch.
- Step 9: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh cranberries for a vibrant tartness or frozen cranberries when fresh are unavailable; just thaw before using.
- Substitute ricotta with goat cheese for a tangier flavor.
- Add a splash of orange juice to the honey-balsamic mixture for a citrusy twist.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or over a bed of rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
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 maintain the ricotta’s texture, consider adding fresh dollops when serving rather than reheating the whole dish.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require slightly longer baking time and will be juicier and more flavorful.
Is it necessary to sear the chicken before baking?
Searing the chicken adds a beautiful golden color and helps lock in juices, but you can skip this step if short on time. Just be sure to bake until fully cooked through.
PrintHoney Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese Recipe
This Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner that combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors. Featuring tender seared chicken breasts topped with a honey-balsamic glaze, fresh cranberries, creamy ricotta cheese, and optional toasted pecans for crunch, this meal is ready in just 40 minutes and is perfect for a flavorful weeknight feast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
Topping and Sauce
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional for crunch)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and facilitate even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them evenly on all sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme to infuse flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each chicken breast for 2–3 minutes per side until they develop a light golden crust. This step locks in juices and adds texture. Transfer the seared chicken to the prepared baking dish.
- Mix and Pour Honey-Balsamic Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and balsamic vinegar until well combined. Pour this sweet and tangy glaze evenly over the chicken breasts to coat them.
- Add Cranberries: Evenly sprinkle the fresh or frozen cranberries over the top of the chicken to add bursts of tartness and color.
- Top with Ricotta Cheese: Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese across each chicken breast to add a creamy, mild flavor that complements the fruit and glaze.
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cranberries begin to caramelize, enhancing their sweetness.
- Add Pecans for Crunch (Optional): If using, sprinkle chopped pecans on top of the chicken during the last 5 minutes of baking to toast them and add a delightful crunch.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For best results, ensure chicken breasts are of even thickness to cook uniformly.
- You can use frozen cranberries but rinse and drain them before using to reduce extra moisture.
- The pecans are optional but provide a great texture contrast; substitute with walnuts if preferred.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or a side of roasted vegetables.
Keywords: Honey Cranberry Chicken, Ricotta Cheese Chicken Bake, Easy Chicken Dinner, Balsamic Honey Chicken, Cranberry Chicken Recipe, Weeknight Chicken Bake
