Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese is a deliciously balanced dish, combining sweet, tangy, and creamy flavors. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it’s simple to prepare and sure to impress your family or guests.

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

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
2. Step 2: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and thyme.
3. 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.
4. Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together honey and balsamic vinegar. Pour this mixture over the chicken.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle the cranberries evenly over the top of the chicken.
6. Step 6: Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese over each chicken breast.
7. Step 7: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and the cranberries are slightly caramelized.
8. Step 8: If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a toasted crunch.
9. Step 9: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use fresh cranberries for a tangier bite or frozen ones for convenience; no need to thaw before using.
• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the honey-balsamic mixture for 30 minutes before searing.
• Swap pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred, or omit nuts to keep it nut-free.

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, cover it while reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, soft cheeses like goat cheese or cream cheese can work well as substitutes, adding a slightly different but delicious creaminess.

Is it possible to make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes for an easy, make-ahead meal for busy days.

Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 145 reviews

This Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese is a delightful combination of savory chicken breasts topped with sweet honey and tangy cranberries, complemented by creamy ricotta and a crunchy pecan topping. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this baked dish offers vibrant flavors and a beautiful presentation.

• Author: Bella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

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Chicken and Seasoning

• 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

Toppings 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

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking and help with even cooking.
2. Season the Chicken: Season the boneless, skinless chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme for a balanced, herby flavor base.
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a light golden crust, adding extra flavor and sealing in juices. Transfer the seared chicken breasts to the greased baking dish.
4. Mix and Pour Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together honey and balsamic vinegar until combined and pour this sweet and tangy mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
5. Add Cranberries: Evenly sprinkle fresh or frozen cranberries over the chicken to add bursts of tartness and color.
6. Top with Ricotta: Spoon dollops of creamy ricotta cheese over each chicken breast to add richness and a smooth texture.
7. Bake: Place the baking dish uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the cranberries begin to caramelize slightly.
8. Add Pecans (Optional): During the last 5 minutes of baking, sprinkle chopped pecans over the chicken to toast them and add a crunchy texture contrast.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh herbal note, and serve warm.

Notes

• Use fresh or frozen cranberries based on availability; no need to thaw frozen cranberries before use.
• For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken breasts in the honey-balsamic mixture for 30 minutes before searing.
• Make sure not to overbake the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
• Pecans are optional but recommended for added texture and nutty flavor.
• This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a crispy green salad.

Keywords: honey cranberry chicken, baked chicken recipe, ricotta chicken bake, easy chicken bake, healthy chicken dinner, gluten free chicken recipe