Baked Chicken Parmesan Dip Appetizer

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Baked Chicken Parmesan Dip Appetizer.

1. Step 1

   Start by draining the ricotta cheese.

2. Step 2

   Place it in a mesh strainer over a bowl and let it chill in the refrigerator for 8 hours or overnight.

3. Step 3

   This step ensures your dip has the perfect creamy texture without excess moisture.

4. Step 4

   When you're ready to cook, preheat your oven to a sizzling 450°F (230°C).

5. Step 5

   While the oven warms up, season your chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick.

6. Step 6

   In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.

7. Step 7

   Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 6 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned and cooked through.

8. Step 8

   When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and deglaze the pan by adding a splash of cold water, stirring to lift all those delicious bits stuck to the bottom.

9. Step 9

   Transfer the chicken and the flavorful pan drippings to a bowl and let them cool for about 5 minutes before dicing or shredding the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

10. Step 10

    In a mixing bowl, combine the drained ricotta cheese with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, mozzarella cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.

11. Step 11

    Mix everything together until well combined.

12. Step 12

    Gently fold in the diced chicken and your favorite marinara sauce, mixing just until everything is evenly coated.

13. Step 13

    In the same bowl you used for the chicken, toss the panko bread crumbs with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring each crumb is nicely coated.

14. Step 14

    Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Transfer the chicken mixture into an ungreased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

15. Step 15

    Top it off with the oiled bread crumbs, then sprinkle on the extra 2 tablespoons of Parmigiano-Reggiano, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack cheese for that irresistible cheesy goodness.

16. Step 16

    Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

17. Step 17

    Once it’s out of the oven, let the dip rest for about 10 minutes to set.

18. Step 18

    Finally, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

19. Step 19

    Serve it warm with a spoon or spreading knife, and watch it disappear as everyone digs in! Enjoy this delightful dip that’s perfect for sharing at any gathering.