Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a bowl of Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta to bring comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table. The rich, velvety sauce clings to every strand of pasta, while tender pieces of seasoned chicken add a savory depth of flavor. Each bite is a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and hearty protein, making this dish a weeknight favorite.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe on a whim, using leftover ricotta cheese from another dish. What started as an experiment quickly became a staple in my household. The simplicity of this recipe, combined with its luxurious taste, makes it a go-to for busy nights when I still want something homemade and delicious.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite pasta dish. This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is packed with flavor, easy to make, and endlessly customizable.

First off, it's incredibly quick and easy. This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those evenings when time is short but you still crave a satisfying meal.

It’s also budget-friendly. Using simple pantry staples and affordable ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish without breaking the bank.

The creamy ricotta sauce is what sets this dish apart. Unlike traditional heavy cream sauces, ricotta gives the pasta a light, fluffy texture while still feeling indulgent.

And let's not forget its versatility. Whether you add fresh spinach, swap the chicken for shrimp, or spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes, this dish adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing out the best flavors and textures.

Pasta is the foundation of this dish, and I recommend using fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni. Their shape helps hold onto the creamy ricotta sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful and satisfying.

Chicken provides a hearty and protein-rich element. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. They cook quickly and remain tender while absorbing the delicious seasonings.

Ricotta cheese is the key ingredient that creates the luscious, creamy texture. Opt for whole-milk ricotta for the best flavor and consistency. If you prefer a lighter option, part-skim ricotta works too, though it won't be as rich.

Garlic and onions add depth and aromatic warmth to the dish. Sautéing them in olive oil before adding the chicken enhances the overall flavor profile.

A touch of Parmesan cheese and lemon juice brightens up the sauce, adding a sharp, salty contrast to the smooth ricotta. Freshly grated Parmesan is always best for maximum flavor.

A large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta are all the special equipment you need. A pasta strainer and a wooden spoon for stirring will also come in handy.

How To Make This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Creating this comforting Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you'll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about a cup of pasta water—this will help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in some olive oil. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and season them with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Let them cook undisturbed for about 4 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then sauté the onions until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese, allowing it to warm up and become creamy. Slowly add some of the reserved pasta water, stirring continuously, until you reach a smooth and velvety consistency.

Toss the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, ensuring everything is well coated in the sauce. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, stirring until everything is combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more pasta water to loosen it up.

Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added freshness. The entire process takes about 25-30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet luxurious dinner.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. When freezing, make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to the pasta and warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. This helps restore its creamy texture without drying it out.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to customize. Here are some great variations and substitutions to try:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a delicious meat-free option.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil before serving for a hint of heat.
• Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for shrimp, Italian sausage, or even grilled tofu to change up the flavor.
• Lighter Option: Use part-skim ricotta and whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist without sacrificing taste.
• Herb Boost: Fresh basil or thyme can add an extra layer of aroma and flavor to the dish.

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own. No matter how you customize it, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is sure to be a hit!

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