Honey Cranberry Garlic Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese
A delightful dish that merges sweet, savory, and cheesy flavors, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Marinated chicken breasts paired with ricotta and feta create a satisfying and visually appealing meal.
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 450kcal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easier cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese Feel free to substitute with cottage cheese or goat cheese if preferred.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup dried cranberries Dried cherries or apricots can also work.
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, honey, and lemon juice. Stir well to create a marinade.
- Coat the chicken breasts thoroughly with the marinade, ensuring they are well-covered.
- Place the chicken in the prepared baking dish and drizzle any remaining marinade over the top.
- Spread ricotta cheese evenly over each chicken breast, followed by a sprinkle of crumbled feta.
- Scatter the dried cranberries, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced red onion around the chicken.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
- At the end of baking, garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F). Always allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after baking to retain its juices.