Hot Honey Ricotta Stuffed Chicken

This Hot Honey Ricotta Stuffed Chicken is a masterclass in balancing textures and flavors. Juicy, oven-roasted chicken breasts serve as the perfect vessel for a rich, herb-infused ricotta filling, all tied together with a sticky, sweet-and-spicy hot honey glaze that adds a bold kick to every bite.

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What makes this dish truly stand out is the interplay between the savory garlic-herb cheese and the caramelized honey. By stuffing the chicken, you lock in moisture, ensuring the meat remains tender while the exterior achieves a beautiful golden hue under the broiler.

Ingredients

• Chicken & Filling
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Glaze
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1–2 tablespoons hot sauce (such as sriracha or Franks Red Hot, to taste)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• For Assembly
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with oil.

Step 2

In a bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, parsley, basil, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Mix until smooth.

Step 3

Pat the chicken breasts dry. Using a sharp knife, cut a horizontal slit along the side of each breast to form a pocket, being careful not to cut all the way through.

Step 4

Spoon the ricotta mixture evenly into each pocket, dividing the filling among the 4 breasts.

Step 5

Secure the opening with toothpicks, if needed. Brush the outside of each chicken breast with olive oil and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 6

Arrange the stuffed breasts on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25–28 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear (internal temp: 165°F/74°C).

Step 7

Meanwhile, make the hot honey glaze: In a small saucepan, combine honey, hot sauce, and butter. Warm over low heat, stirring until melted and slightly thickened (about 2–3 minutes).

Step 8

Remove chicken from the oven. Brush generously with the hot honey glaze. Return to oven and broil on high for 2–3 minutes, or until golden and caramelized.

Step 9

Rest chicken 5 minutes before serving. Remove toothpicks and drizzle with extra hot honey glaze if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Using a sharp knife is essential for creating clean pockets without tearing the meat. If your chicken breasts are very large, you may need toothpicks to hold the pocket shut during baking. Use a pastry brush to apply the glaze thoroughly, ensuring every inch is coated for maximum caramelization.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a different flavor profile, you can substitute goat cheese for ricotta to add a tangier note to the filling. You can also easily adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of hot sauce in the honey glaze.

Serviervorschläge

This bold main dish is great served with roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. To round out the meal, pair it with a chilled Riesling or a light-bodied red wine to complement the sweet and spicy flavors.

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With its vibrant glaze and creamy interior, this Hot Honey Ricotta Stuffed Chicken is a sophisticated yet approachable dish that brings a touch of restaurant-quality cooking right to your home kitchen.

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Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the breast. It should read 165°F (74°C). The juices should run clear when pierced, and the meat should feel firm to the touch.

→ Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?

Yes, mix the ricotta filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature for easier stuffing.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Goat cheese, cottage cheese (drained well), or cream cheese mixed with a bit of lemon juice all work beautifully. Each adds a slightly different tang and creaminess.

→ How spicy is the hot honey glaze?

Using 1 tablespoon of hot sauce creates a mild warmth that most people enjoy. Add 2 tablespoons for medium spice, or adjust to your preference by tasting as you go.

→ Can I cook this on the grill instead?

Absolutely. Grill over medium heat for 6-8 minutes per side, then brush with glaze and cook 1-2 minutes more until caramelized. Use indirect heat or a grill pan to prevent burning the honey.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts complement the sweet glaze. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness, or serve with roasted potatoes for a complete meal.