Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Creamy and Satisfying Dish

Creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, Ricotta Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner. This pasta recipe features tender, juicy chicken tossed with a velvety ricotta sauce, garlic, and fresh herbs. It’s an easy meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Comforting – The ricotta cheese creates a luscious sauce without being too heavy.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for a fast yet satisfying meal.
• Protein-Packed – The addition of chicken makes this pasta a wholesome, balanced meal.
• Customizable – Add vegetables, swap proteins, or tweak the spices to suit your taste.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup milk or pasta water
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Ricotta Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Reduce the heat to low and stir in ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, milk (or reserved pasta water), lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the sauce is smooth and heated through.

4. Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. If needed, add extra pasta water to adjust the consistency.

5. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the pasta and serve immediately. Enjoy warm with extra Parmesan on top!

Variations and Substitutions

• Add Vegetables – Stir in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Swap the Protein – Use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different twist.
• Make it Spicier – Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Go Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish celiac-friendly.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or water to restore creaminess.
• Freeze: Not recommended, as ricotta-based sauces can become grainy when frozen.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I prevent the ricotta sauce from becoming grainy?

Use whole milk ricotta and avoid overheating the sauce. Stir gently over low heat.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the chicken and add more veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or peas.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work best as they hold onto the creamy sauce well.

Can I use cottage cheese instead of ricotta?

Yes, but blend it first for a smoother texture. Ricotta is preferred for creaminess.

Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta and reduce the cheese slightly for a lighter version.

What can I serve with ricotta chicken pasta?

Pair it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Shred the chicken and mix it in at the end for an even quicker meal.

Does this pasta taste good cold?

While best served warm, it can be enjoyed cold as a creamy pasta salad.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Use less milk or pasta water and add more Parmesan for a richer texture.

What herbs go well with this dish?

Basil, parsley, thyme, and oregano complement the ricotta sauce beautifully.

Conclusion

Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a creamy, satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, this dish delivers both flavor and nourishment in every bite. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and fresh herbs!

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