Chicken Parm With Spaghetti And Ricotta
Indulge in a classic Italian-American favorite with this Chicken Parmesan with Spaghetti and Ricotta recipe. Succulent boneless, skinless chicken breasts are elevated to new heights with a luscious layer of creamy ricotta cheese, delicately seasoned with basil and oregano. Topped with a crispy golden crust of freshly grated Parmesan and breadcrumbs, each bite promises a symphony of textures and flavors.
Serve atop a bed of hot, angel hair pasta, generously coated in marinara sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this dish is a timeless crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress.
Chicken Parm With Spaghetti And Ricotta
Ingredients
1/2 cup lowfat ricotta
1 T milk
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 T dried basil or oregano
1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
salt and pepper
8 oz . hot cooked angel hair
1 quart hot marinara sauce
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 400. Boil your water for the pasta and put your marinara on to warm up.
In a small bowl mix your ricotta and milk together well to thin out the ricotta a little.
Next, pat you chicken dry and arrange them on a baking dish. Spread each breast with a couple tablespoons of ricotta each. Sprinkle each breast with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
Grate the Parmesan and make your breadcrumbs in a food processor. Add the cheese to the breadcrumbs and lightly season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle crumbs over chicken breasts liberally. Press into chicken to ensure a good stick.
Bake in the oven for 20-30 minutes or until juices run clear.
Cook the angel hair. Slice the chicken and serve on top of pasta with a healthy ladle full of marinara sauce.
Enjoy!
Notes:
Ricotta Mixture: Combining ricotta with milk creates a creamy mixture that adds moisture and richness to the chicken breasts, enhancing their flavor and texture.
Seasoning: Seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried basil or oregano ensures they are well-flavored throughout the cooking process.
Breadcrumbs and Parmesan Coating: Coating the chicken breasts in a mixture of fresh breadcrumbs and freshly grated Parmesan cheese creates a crispy, golden crust when baked, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Baking Instructions: Baking the chicken breasts in the oven at 400°F for 20-30 minutes ensures they are cooked through and tender, with a beautifully browned exterior.
Serving: Slicing the chicken and serving it atop hot cooked angel hair pasta, generously coated in marinara sauce, creates a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Customization: Feel free to customize the recipe by using different herbs or spices in the ricotta mixture or adjusting the amount of cheese and breadcrumbs according to personal preference.
Additionally, you can add extra toppings such as fresh basil or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 600 kcal | Protein: 35 g | Fat: 20 g | Carbohydrates: 65 g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use regular ricotta instead of low-fat ricotta?
Yes, you can use regular ricotta if you prefer.
However, it may alter the nutritional content slightly.
Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts if you prefer.
Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use store-bought breadcrumbs instead of fresh breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can use store-bought breadcrumbs if you prefer.
However, fresh breadcrumbs often provide a better texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time and bake it later?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly if the chicken is cold.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for later consumption.
Store them in an airtight container and thaw before reheating.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer.
Spaghetti, linguine, or penne would work well.
How long does it take to cook the angel hair pasta?
Angel hair pasta typically cooks in about 4-5 minutes in boiling water.
Can I add extra cheese on top of the chicken before baking?
Yes, you can add extra cheese on top of the chicken if you prefer a cheesier dish.
What can I serve with this dish besides spaghetti?
This dish pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.