Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a dinner that feels both indulgent and effortlessly cozy, look no further than Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta. This dish brings together tender chicken, luscious ricotta, and perfectly cooked pasta for a meal that’s bursting with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is your go-to recipe for comfort and ease, making your taste buds do a happy dance every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Speedy satisfaction: Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
• Rich but light: Ricotta cheese adds creaminess without weighing the dish down like heavy creams.
• Fresh and flavorful: Chicken and herbs combine for a hearty yet bright taste experience.
• One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup with pasta cooking right alongside the sauce.
• Family-friendly: A crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays a key role, from the tender chicken for protein to the fresh herbs that lift the flavors and the ricotta that brings a velvety texture. This combination makes your meal both wholesome and incredibly satisfying.

• Chicken breasts: Sliced thin for quick, even cooking and juicy bites.
• Ricotta cheese: The star ingredient, providing creamy texture and mild richness.
• Pasta of choice: Any short pasta like penne or rigatoni works best to hold the sauce.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and savory warmth to the dish.
• Fresh herbs (basil, parsley): Brighten the creamy sauce with fresh, green notes.
• Olive oil: For sautéing chicken with a fragrant, fruity base flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that complements the ricotta perfectly.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste, essential for balancing all the flavors.
• Chicken broth or pasta water: To loosen the sauce and infuse extra flavor.

Variations for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable! Feel free to switch up ingredients to fit your pantry, dietary needs, or flavor preferences. Little tweaks can turn this classic into something totally new and personalized.

• Vegetarian twist: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for heat.
• Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free pasta without compromising texture or taste.
• Cheese variations: Mix in some cream cheese or mascarpone with the ricotta for extra richness.
• Herb changes: Experiment with thyme, oregano, or chives depending on what you have on hand.

How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Slice your chicken breasts into thin, bite-sized pieces to ensure quick cooking. Heat olive oil in a large skillet, then cook the chicken over medium heat until it’s golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper but hold off on herbs until later for maximum flavor layering.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your chosen pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to use later for adjusting sauce consistency.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

In the skillet with the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Lower the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese along with a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy, coating the chicken evenly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together gently to ensure each piece of pasta is generously coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a little more reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Cheese

Remove from heat and stir in freshly chopped basil and parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Sprinkle on grated Parmesan cheese and give it one final toss before serving hot and enjoying every creamy bite.

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

• Perfectly cooked pasta: Aim for al dente to avoid mushy texture and help the sauce cling better.
• Warm the ricotta: Let ricotta come to room temperature before adding so it blends smoothly.
• Use reserved pasta water: It’s a magical ingredient that helps emulsify the sauce and keep it silky.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed to get a nice sear and prevent steaming.
• Fresh herbs last: Add herbs after cooking to preserve their flavor and vibrant color.

How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Top with extra grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a restaurant-quality look and fresh aroma on your plate.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans to add freshness and balance the creamy richness of the pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, plate the pasta in nested piles with delicate herb sprigs on top or serve in individual bowls garnished with lemon zest to brighten the palate.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps well and tastes great reheated!

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the sauce and pasta separately if possible to preserve texture. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back creaminess and prevent drying out.

FAQs

Can I use shredded chicken instead of sliced chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded chicken works great and absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite flavorful.

Is ricotta cheese a good substitute for cream?

Yes, ricotta provides a lighter, less fatty alternative while still delivering a creamy texture perfect for this pasta.

What pasta shapes work best?

Short, ridged pasta like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle are ideal because they hold the sauce well, but feel free to use your favorites.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To go dairy-free, swap ricotta for a plant-based cheese alternative and use olive oil or dairy-free butter for richness.

How do I keep the chicken juicy and tender?

Avoid overcooking by using thin slices and cooking over medium heat just until no longer pink inside.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta feels like a warm hug on a plate—easy, comforting, and packed with delicious flavor. It’s truly one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again, whether weeknight dinner or casual weekend treat. Give it a try tonight and savor every creamy, cheesy bite with a smile!

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