Introduction
Looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious chicken recipe that will wow everyone at the table? This Quick Ricotta Pomegranate Stuffed Chicken is exactly what you need. It’s packed with flavor, colorful, and surprisingly easy to make. The creamy ricotta cheese pairs perfectly with the sweet, tangy burst of pomegranate seeds, while the chicken stays juicy and tender.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or even a special occasion. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to make this tasty stuffed chicken from start to finish, and you’ll even get nutritional information to keep your meals balanced.
Ingredients – Ricotta Pomegranate Stuffed Chicken
Here’s what you need to make this delightful Ricotta Pomegranate Stuffed Chicken:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Stuffing:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup pomegranate seeds (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional for extra freshness)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Extra pomegranate seeds
- Fresh parsley
Step by Step Process – Ricotta Pomegranate Stuffed Chicken
Follow these simple steps to make your delicious stuffed chicken:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Take the chicken breasts and make a horizontal slit in each one to create a pocket.
- Be careful not to cut all the way through; the pocket should be deep enough to hold the stuffing.
Step 3: Make the Stuffing
- In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, pomegranate seeds, chopped parsley, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and lemon zest.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 4: Stuff the Chicken
- Spoon the ricotta mixture into each chicken breast pocket.
- Press gently to make sure the stuffing stays inside.
Step 5: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
- Sear the stuffed chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side, until lightly golden.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle extra pomegranate seeds and parsley on top for a fresh, colorful finish.
- Serve warm with your favorite side dishes like roasted vegetables, rice, or a simple salad.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 6 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 6 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use frozen pomegranate seeds?
Yes! Frozen pomegranate seeds work perfectly. Just thaw them before mixing with the ricotta.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the stuffed chicken a few hours in advance, keep it in the fridge, and bake it when ready.
Q3: Can I use other cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, cream cheese or goat cheese can be used, but ricotta gives the best creamy texture.
Q4: How can I make this recipe low-fat?
Use low-fat ricotta and reduce the olive oil for searing. This will lower the calorie and fat content.
Q5: Can I cook this on the stovetop only?
Yes, cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, baking ensures even cooking and a golden crust.
Final Thoughts
This Quick Ricotta Pomegranate Stuffed Chicken is not just a dish—it’s an experience. The creamy ricotta, juicy chicken, and pop of pomegranate create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s healthy, colorful, and simple to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or special dinners.
Cooking should be fun and stress-free, and this recipe proves you don’t need complicated steps to make something impressive. Once you try it, this stuffed chicken will likely become a regular in your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy your delicious creation and don’t forget to share it with family and friends—they’ll be asking for seconds!
