Ricotta, lemon and herb stuffed chicken
Ricotta, lemon, and herb stuffed chicken features a creamy ricotta filling infused with zesty lemon and fresh herbs, resulting in a juicy, flavorful dish. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe ensures tender chicken with a delightful stuffing.
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 25 min
Ingredients:
1.50 cups ricotta cheese1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
3 lb whole chicken
Ricotta, lemon, and herb stuffed chicken is a delightful dish that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the tangy zest of lemon and the savory aroma of fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. It not only promises a burst of flavors but also ensures a tender and juicy chicken that will impress your guests.
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pat the whole chicken dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin from the breast and legs of the chicken by sliding your fingers between the skin and the meat, being careful not to tear the skin.
- Spoon the ricotta mixture under the loosened skin, spreading it evenly over the breasts and legs. Push as much of the mixture under the skin as possible, distributing it evenly.
- Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Drizzle the lemon juice over the chicken for added flavor.
- Place the chicken on a roasting rack set inside a roasting pan. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine if desired to ensure even cooking.
- Roast the chicken in the preheated oven for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured in the thickest part of the thigh. The skin should be golden brown and crisp.
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful chicken.
- Carve the chicken and serve it warm, making sure to enjoy the herby, cheesy stuffing with each bite.
Ricotta, lemon, and herb stuffed chicken is an exquisite addition to any meal, offering a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. This recipe is sure to become a favorite, pleasing even the most discerning palates. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish with your loved ones and make mealtime memorable.
Ricotta, lemon and herb stuffed chicken FAQ:
The ricotta stuffed chicken should be roasted in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. The skin should also be golden brown and crispy.
Yes, leftover stuffed chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
If you need a substitute for ricotta cheese, you can use cottage cheese or cream cheese. However, note that the texture and flavor will differ slightly from the original recipe.
A roasting pan large enough to accommodate a 3 lb whole chicken is recommended. A standard 13x9-inch pan or a larger roasting pan with a rack should work well.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the chicken is thoroughly cleaned and patted dry before you start stuffing it to achieve the best texture and flavor.
- For an extra burst of flavor, season the ricotta mixture with finely chopped garlic, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of lemon zest.
- Secure the stuffed chicken with kitchen twine to keep the filling in place while roasting.
- Baste the chicken with its juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the chicken.
Nutrition Facts
4 ServingsCalories 1160kcal
Protein 100g
Carbohydrates 5g
Fiber 0.00g
Sugar 0.27g
Fat 80g
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