Dinner

Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese Recipe

Name: Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries; 3 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional for crunch); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

BySana Jeannette December 22, 2025December 22, 2025

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Introduction

This Honey Cranberry Chicken Bake with Ricotta Cheese is an easy and flavorful dinner you can prepare in just 40 minutes. The combination of sweet honey, tart cranberries, and creamy ricotta creates a delightful balance that will impress your family and guests.

Four pieces of golden-brown cooked chicken breasts sit side by side in a dark baking tray filled with a glossy, dark reddish sauce. Each chicken breast is topped with a dollop of white creamy cheese, several glossy red cranberries, a few brown pecans, and a sprig of fresh green rosemary. The chicken is sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs and spices. The tray rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 cup ricotta cheese

1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional for crunch)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.

Step 2: Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly golden, then transfer them to the prepared baking dish.
Step 4: In a small bowl, whisk together honey and balsamic vinegar. Pour this mixture evenly over the chicken.

Step 5: Sprinkle the cranberries evenly over the top of the chicken breasts.
Step 6: Spoon dollops of ricotta cheese over each chicken breast.
Step 7: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cranberries are slightly caramelized.

Step 8: If desired, sprinkle chopped pecans on top during the last 5 minutes of baking to toast them lightly.
Step 9: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use frozen cranberries if fresh are unavailable; no need to thaw before baking.

For a richer flavor, try substituting ricotta with goat cheese or cream cheese.
Add a splash of orange juice to the honey and balsamic mixture for a citrus twist.
To make it gluten-free, ensure all ingredients, especially the balsamic vinegar, are certified gluten-free.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For best texture, avoid overheating the ricotta topping during reheating.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of four pieces of golden brown chicken breasts baked in a white rectangular dish filled with a dark red cranberry sauce. Each chicken breast is topped with a fluffy white layer of cheese, scattered toasted pecans, and a fresh green rosemary sprig. The chicken has a slightly crispy texture with visible herbs sprinkled over it, and the sauce around the chicken holds whole cranberries that add vibrant red spots to the scene. The white marbled background enhances the warm and colorful look of the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

This dish can be frozen after baking. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.