Save Juicy chicken breasts are filled with creamy ricotta cheese and glazed with a sweet-spicy hot honey, creating a show-stopping main dish with bold flavors and a luscious, melty center. This dish perfectly balances the cooling properties of ricotta with the vibrant kick of a homemade hot honey glaze.
Save This recipe is designed to be as efficient as it is delicious. By using a simple pocket-stuffing technique and a quick-simmered glaze, you can achieve restaurant-quality results in just 50 minutes. It's a versatile main that feels both indulgent and fresh thanks to the addition of lemon zest and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 180–200 g each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 200 g (about ¾ cup) ricotta cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon lemon zest
- 30 g (¼ cup) grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 80 ml (⅓ cup) honey
- 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as Sriracha or Franks Red Hot), to taste
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Step 2
- Pat the chicken breasts dry. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a deep pocket into the side of each breast, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Step 3
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, parsley, basil, garlic, lemon zest, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Step 4
- Stuff each chicken breast pocket with equal amounts of the ricotta mixture. Secure the opening with toothpicks if needed.
- Step 5
- Rub the outside of each chicken breast with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Step 6
- Place the stuffed chicken breasts in the prepared baking dish.
- Step 7
- In a small saucepan over low heat, combine honey, hot sauce, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Warm gently, stirring, until fully blended (about 2 minutes).
- Step 8
- Brush half of the hot honey glaze over the tops of the chicken breasts.
- Step 9
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 74°C/165°F).
- Step 10
- Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining hot honey glaze. Rest for 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks before eating.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 74°C (165°F) to avoid overcooking. Allowing the chicken to rest for at least 5 minutes helps the ricotta filling set and keeps the juices in the meat. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and should be reheated gently to maintain the texture of the filling.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or fresh spinach to the ricotta mixture. You can easily adjust the heat level of the glaze by increasing or decreasing the amount of hot sauce and cayenne pepper. If you prefer a milder version, omit the red pepper flakes and cayenne entirely.
Serviervorschläge
This chicken pairs exceptionally well with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or garlic mashed potatoes. The honey glaze acts as a built-in sauce that complements starchy sides perfectly.
Save Whether you're looking for a new weeknight favorite or a dish to impress guests, this Hot Honey Ricotta Stuffed Chicken is a perfect choice. The contrast between the creamy, savory center and the spicy-sweet glaze makes every bite memorable.
Recipe Guide
- → How do I prevent the ricotta filling from leaking out during baking?
Cut the pocket carefully without cutting through to the other side. If needed, secure the opening with toothpicks before baking. Place the stuffed chicken seam-side up in the baking dish to help keep the filling contained.
- → Can I make the hot honey glaze less spicy?
Absolutely! Start with 1 teaspoon of hot sauce and omit the cayenne pepper. You can always add more heat later. The smoked paprika adds flavor without much spice, so keep that for the depth it provides.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, or garlic mashed potatoes work beautifully. The sweetness also complements roasted sweet potatoes or charred corn.
- → Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes! Stuff the chicken and refrigerate up to 4 hours before baking. Make the glaze ahead as well—it will keep at room temperature. Bring to room temperature for 15 minutes before baking.
- → How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F). The juices should run clear, and the chicken should feel firm to the touch. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.