Prosciutto Wrapped Ricotta Chicken

Prosciutto Wrapped Ricotta Chicken

Prosciutto Wrapped Ricotta Chicken

Introduction

One-Pan Prosciutto-Wrapped Ricotta Chicken with Scalloped Potatoes is a delectable dish that brings together juicy chicken, creamy ricotta, and savory prosciutto, all while being baked alongside layers of tender scalloped potatoes. This recipe not only offers a delightful combination of flavors but also ensures an easy cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Chicken breasts
Prosciutto
Ricotta cheese
Spinach
Garlic
Parmesan cheese
Scalloped potatoes mix
Milk
Butter
Salt
Pepper

Prep Time

The preparation for this delicious dish takes approximately 15 minutes. This efficient prep time allows you to quickly assemble the ingredients before cooking, making it ideal for those on a tight schedule.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for this recipe is around 45 minutes. In total, including prep and cooking, the entire process takes about 1 hour. This recipe yields enough to serve four people, making it a fantastic option for family meals or inviting friends over for dinner.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Gather all the ingredients including chicken, ricotta, prosciutto, potatoes, garlic, and thyme.

Step 2: Make the Ricotta Filling

In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese with salt, pepper, and chopped thyme. Mix until well blended.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken

Take each chicken breast and create a pocket by slicing horizontally but not all the way through. Stuff the pocket with the ricotta mixture.

Step 4: Wrap Chicken with Prosciutto

Wrap each stuffed chicken breast with prosciutto slices, ensuring it covers the chicken completely.

Step 5: Prepare Potatoes

Thinly slice the potatoes and layer them at the bottom of a baking dish. Season with salt, pepper, and additional thyme.

Step 6: Add Garlic

Sprinkle minced garlic over the potatoes for extra flavor.

Step 7: Add Chicken

Place the wrapped chicken breasts on top of the potatoes in the baking dish.

Step 8: Bake the Dish

Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 40-50 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and potatoes are tender.

Step 9: Finish Baking

Remove the foil in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to allow the prosciutto to get crispy and to brown the top.

Step 10: Serve

Once cooked, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra thyme if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Chicken Size

Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for even cooking.

Note 2: Potato Thickness

Cut the potatoes uniformly to ensure they cook at the same rate.

Note 3: Customization

Feel free to add other herbs or spices to the ricotta filling to enhance the flavor according to your preference.

Note 4: Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Cook techniques

Prosciutto Wrapping

Wrapping chicken in prosciutto not only adds flavor but also helps keep the meat moist during cooking, creating a savory outer layer that contrasts nicely with the creamy ricotta filling.

Scalloping Potatoes

Scalloping involves thinly slicing potatoes and layering them with cream and cheese. This technique creates a deliciously creamy and cheesy side dish that complements the chicken.

One-Pan Cooking

Using a single pan for your dish minimizes cleanup and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully while everything cooks simultaneously.

Baking

Baking the chicken and potatoes in the oven at a controlled temperature ensures even cooking and a wonderfully golden finish on the prosciutto.

Seasoning

Properly seasoning the chicken and potatoes enhances the overall flavor of the dish, allowing the ingredients to shine through while providing depth to the meal.

Serving Suggestion

Presenting the dish directly from the oven in the same pan adds an appealing, rustic touch to your meal, making it visually enticing while keeping everything warm and fresh.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, other cheeses like cream cheese or goat cheese can also work well as a filling, offering different flavor profiles.

What can I substitute for prosciutto?

Bacon or pancetta can be used as a substitute for prosciutto if you’re looking for a different taste or texture.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the chicken and potatoes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can also cut into it to check that the juices run clear.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the chicken and potatoes.

Conclusion

The One Pan Prosciutto Wrapped Ricotta Chicken with Scalloped Potatoes is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. The creamy ricotta and savory prosciutto complement the tender chicken, while the scalloped potatoes provide a comforting and satisfying side. With its easy preparation and minimal cleanup, this dish is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings.

More recipes suggestions and combination

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For a Mediterranean flair, try stuffing chicken breasts with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, and herbs. Bake them alongside your favorite roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

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Coat chicken breasts in a mixture of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for a crispy crust. Pair with creamy garlic mashed potatoes for a classic, comforting dinner.

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Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus

As an appetizer or side, wrap fresh asparagus spears in prosciutto and roast until crispy. This dish is an excellent complement to any main course, especially steak or grilled chicken.