Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of creamy ricotta chicken pasta to turn an ordinary dinner into something special. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luxuriously creamy ricotta sauce creates a dish that's both hearty and satisfying.

I first made this dish on a whim, trying to use up some leftover ricotta cheese from another recipe. To my surprise, the result was a rich, velvety sauce that clung to every bite of pasta and chicken. Now, it's a staple in my home, perfect for busy weeknights or when I need a meal that feels like a warm hug.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort meal. This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is packed with flavor, incredibly easy to make, and sure to become a family favorite.

First off, it's quick and easy. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality pasta dish on the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

It's also budget-friendly. Using simple ingredients like chicken breast, ricotta cheese, and pantry staples means you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a luxurious meal.

This recipe is versatile. Whether you want to swap out the protein, add extra veggies, or tweak the seasonings, it’s easy to customize to your taste.

Best of all, it's light yet creamy. Unlike heavy cream-based sauces, ricotta cheese gives this dish a creamy texture without weighing it down.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this creamy ricotta chicken pasta lies in its simple yet high-quality ingredients. Each one plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Chicken breast is the protein of choice for this recipe. It cooks quickly, remains tender, and pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. If you prefer, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier option.

Ricotta cheese is the star of the show, lending a creamy, slightly sweet richness to the sauce. Be sure to use whole milk ricotta for the best texture and flavor.

Pasta forms the base of this dish, and shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work best. Their ridges and surfaces hold onto the sauce, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami depth that enhances the creaminess of the ricotta. Freshly grated is always best for maximum flavor.

Garlic and onion provide an aromatic base, infusing the dish with warmth and a slight sweetness that balances out the richness of the cheese.

For this recipe, you’ll also need a large skillet, a pot for boiling pasta, and a colander for draining.

How To Make This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Creating this mouthwatering dish is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to bring it all together.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta until al dente, following the package instructions. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water – this will help loosen up the sauce later if needed.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then add your chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add a bit more olive oil if needed. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the sauce.

Next, stir in the ricotta cheese, allowing it to warm through and become creamy. Add in grated Parmesan cheese and a splash of the reserved pasta water to help create a silky, smooth consistency.

Once the sauce is well combined, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring everything together so the flavors meld. Finally, add the drained pasta, tossing until it's fully coated in the creamy ricotta sauce.

This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a quick yet impressive meal for any night of the week.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this creamy ricotta chicken pasta can be stored easily, making it a great option for meal prep.

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it sits, but you can add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to restore its creaminess.

For freezing, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally and adding a bit of liquid as needed to prevent drying out.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to switch things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

For a vegetarian option, swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. These ingredients add texture and nutrients while keeping the dish just as satisfying.

If you prefer a richer sauce, mix in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or mascarpone cheese for extra indulgence.

To add a kick of spice, stir in some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet-heat contrast.

For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. The sauce and other ingredients remain naturally gluten-free.

Want to incorporate more protein? Add cooked Italian sausage or even shrimp for a different flavor profile.

No matter how you customize it, this creamy ricotta chicken pasta is bound to be a hit. Experiment with different variations and make it your own!

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