Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: Amazing 30 Min Meal

Creamy ricotta chicken pasta has been my go-to weeknight meal for years, and I’m so excited to share this incredibly simple yet elegant dish with you! I first discovered this recipe during a particularly busy season when I needed something quick that still felt special. The moment the creamy ricotta sauce coats the tender chicken and al dente pasta, filling my kitchen with a warm, comforting aroma, I know dinner is going to be a hit. This easy ricotta chicken pasta comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still craving something delicious and satisfying. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

This dish is a total game-changer, and I know you’ll be making it again and again. Here’s why it’s so amazing:

• Incredibly Easy: Seriously, this easy ricotta chicken pasta comes together in a flash, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Creamy Sauce: The ricotta cheese creates a luscious, velvety sauce that coats every piece of pasta and chicken beautifully.
• Satisfying and Hearty: It’s a complete meal that’s both comforting and filling, without feeling overly heavy.
• Versatile: This ricotta chicken pasta bake recipe is super adaptable; you can easily add veggies or change up the seasonings.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of prep, you’ll be on your way to a delicious dinner in no time.
• Flavorful Chicken: Perfectly seasoned chicken breast adds a wonderful savory element to the creamy pasta.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters will devour this cheesy pasta dish!

Ingredients for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Gather these simple ingredients for a truly delicious creamy ricotta chicken pasta recipe. You’ll be amazed at how quickly these come together to create something so satisfying!

• 12 ounces pasta (such as fettuccine or penne) – I like using fettuccine for its broad surface area to catch the sauce.
• 1 pound chicken breast, boneless and skinless – cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – this is the star, making the sauce incredibly creamy and rich. Full-fat works best for texture.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a salty, nutty depth to the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing the chicken and garlic.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh garlic adds that essential aromatic base.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme that brings a classic Italian flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional) – adds a pop of color and fresh, peppery notes at the end.

How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Get ready to whip up the most delicious and satisfying creamy ricotta chicken pasta dish you’ve ever tasted! This recipe is designed to be straightforward, so even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll nail it. We’ll start by getting our pasta going, then move on to cooking the chicken, creating that dreamy ricotta sauce, and finally bringing it all together for a perfect meal. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality pasta dish on your table in no time!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

First things first, let’s get our pasta ready. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add your 12 ounces of pasta and cook according to package directions until it’s perfectly al dente – you want it tender but with a slight bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta well, but be sure to reserve about a cup of that starchy pasta water before you do; it’s liquid gold for thickening sauces!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, let’s tackle the chicken. Pat your 1 pound of chicken breast dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and the 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Carefully place the seasoned chicken into the hot skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board to rest.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Sauce

Now for the magic! Reduce the skillet heat to low. Add the 2 cloves of minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30-60 seconds until it’s fragrant – watch it closely so it doesn’t burn! Pour in the 1 cup of ricotta cheese and the ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the cheeses melt together, creating a wonderfully smooth and creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

It’s time to bring everything together! Slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces. Add the drained pasta and the sliced chicken directly into the skillet with the luscious ricotta sauce. Toss everything gently until the pasta and chicken are completely coated in that dreamy sauce. Give it a taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Serve your cheesy ricotta chicken pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil if you have some on hand for an extra burst of freshness.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

I’ve made this dish countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to absolutely spectacular. Following these tips ensures your creamy ricotta chicken pasta is always a hit!

• Don’t skip reserving pasta water! It’s essential for achieving the perfect sauce consistency.
• Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest, richest sauce. Low-fat can sometimes be a bit watery.
• Sear the chicken well before slicing; this adds amazing flavor and texture to the dish.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts much better than pre-shredded, giving you a smoother sauce.

What’s the secret to perfect creamy ricotta chicken pasta?

The real secret is the quality of your ricotta and not overcooking the pasta. Using whole milk ricotta and cooking your pasta just until al dente ensures a luxuriously creamy texture without any graininess. This is key for the best ricotta chicken pasta experience.

Can I make creamy ricotta chicken pasta ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve and combine everything then for the best texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy ricotta chicken pasta?

A common pitfall is making the sauce too thick or too thin. Adjust with reserved pasta water or a little more ricotta. Also, avoid overcooking the chicken, which can make it dry. Searing it quickly and letting it rest is crucial.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

This delightful creamy chicken pasta with ricotta and spinach is wonderful on its own, but I love pairing it with simple sides that complement its richness. For a complete Italian-American feast, consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the creamy pasta beautifully. Another great option is some crusty garlic bread; it’s perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, and who doesn’t love that? If you’re looking for something a bit more substantial, steamed or roasted asparagus or broccoli also makes a fantastic accompaniment.

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is a satisfying meal, and while exact nutritional values can vary, here’s a general breakdown per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 500-600
• Fat: N/A
• Saturated Fat: N/A
• Protein: N/A
• Carbohydrates: N/A
• Fiber: N/A
• Sugar: N/A
• Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used in your ricotta chicken pasta.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Properly storing your leftover creamy ricotta chicken pasta skillet recipe ensures it stays delicious for future meals. Once it has cooled down slightly at room temperature (no more than two hours), transfer the pasta into airtight containers. For refrigeration, it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you’re planning to freeze portions of this delightful chicken pasta with ricotta cheese sauce, make sure to use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until heated through, stirring halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

What is ricotta chicken pasta?

Ricotta chicken pasta is a dish where pasta is coated in a creamy sauce made primarily from ricotta cheese, often combined with chicken, garlic, and Parmesan. It’s known for its rich, velvety texture and comforting flavor profile, making it a popular choice for a satisfying meal.

Can I use different types of pasta for this creamy ricotta chicken pasta recipe?

Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne are great choices, feel free to experiment. Short pasta shapes like rotini, farfalle, or shells work wonderfully as they capture the sauce well. For a more decadent experience, you could even try a ricotta chicken noodle bake using egg noodles.

How can I make this creamy ricotta chicken pasta recipe dairy-free?

While ricotta is dairy, you can achieve a creamy texture by using a high-quality, plain dairy-free ricotta alternative made from cashews or almonds. You’ll also need to substitute the Parmesan cheese with a nutritional yeast-based “Parmesan” or a dairy-free shredded cheese blend. It won’t be exactly the same, but it can still be delicious!

Is this creamy chicken pasta with ricotta and spinach a healthy option?

This dish can be made healthier by using whole wheat pasta, lean chicken breast, and adding plenty of vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas. While ricotta does add protein and calcium, it’s also a source of fat, so portion control is key for a healthy creamy ricotta chicken pasta meal.

Variations of Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta You Can Try

This versatile creamy ricotta chicken pasta is a fantastic base for all sorts of delicious twists! Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Creamy Chicken and Ricotta Shells: Swap your pasta for large pasta shells. Stuff the cooked shells with the chicken and ricotta mixture before baking for a delightful ricotta chicken pasta casserole.
• Spicy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Skillet: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the garlic when sautéing. This creates a zesty kick in your ricotta chicken pasta skillet recipe.
• Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Primavera: Boost the veggie content by stirring in some steamed or sautéed vegetables like broccoli florets, peas, or asparagus during the final mixing stage. This adds color and extra nutrients to your easy ricotta chicken pasta.
• One Pot Ricotta Chicken Pasta: For ultimate ease, try a one pot ricotta chicken pasta variation. Cook the pasta directly in the skillet with broth and seasonings, then add the chicken and ricotta to create a cohesive, flavorful dish with minimal cleanup.

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