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Spinach Ricotta Chicken

This dish features crispy-skinned chicken topped with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese and sautéed spinach. The chicken is oven-roasted until golden, and the spinach and ricotta are folded into a smooth filling that contrasts with the tender meat and crunchy skin, creating a rustic yet elegant presentation.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pieces bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs preferably skin still attached
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried basil optional, for added flavor

Equipment

  • Oven-proof skillet or baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Saucepan
  • Cooking spoon
  • Kitchen knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken skin-side down and sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin turns golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes.
  3. Remove the skillet from heat and transfer it to the preheated oven. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
  4. While the chicken roasts, heat a teaspoon of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
  5. Add the chopped spinach to the garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until wilted and tender, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Remove the spinach from heat and fold in the ricotta cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a serving plate. Carefully lift the crispy skin and scoop some of the ricotta-spinach mixture underneath, spreading it evenly over the meat.
  8. Serve the chicken hot, with any remaining ricotta-spinach on the side or spooned over the top for an elegant presentation.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon over the dish before serving.