Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a culinary delight that brings together tender chicken, a velvety ricotta-Parmesan sauce, and vibrant greens. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor. The creamy texture and rich taste make it a family favorite that everyone will love.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For the Greens
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Ricotta Cream Sauce
• Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
• Step 5: Add Greens (Optional)
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Add Extra Cheese
• Incorporate Nuts
• Serve with a Salad
• Pair with Bread
• Include Vegetables
• How to Perfect Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
• Reheating Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta so special?
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• How can I customize my Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of ricotta and Parmesan creates a creamy sauce that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap the chicken for shrimp or add more veggies based on your preference.
• Healthy Option: Whole wheat pasta and fresh greens make this dish a wholesome choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone in the family will enjoy this comforting meal, making it perfect for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly, ensuring it cooks perfectly al dente.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and making the creamy ricotta sauce in one pan.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain the right balance of flavors in your sauce.

Ingredients

This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is a wholesome and flavorful dish made with tender chicken, a rich ricotta-Parmesan sauce, and fresh greens. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal!

For the Pasta

• 12 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or tortiglioni)

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Greens

• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)

For Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

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How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper.
3. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes).
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Cream Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Lower heat to medium-low; add ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using).
3. Stir until smooth; add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), adjusting salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

1. Return cooked chicken to skillet; stir to coat in sauce.
2. Add cooked pasta; toss to combine.
3. If sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Add Greens (Optional)

1. Stir in fresh spinach or kale; cook until wilted (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 6: Serve

Plate the pasta; garnish with fresh basil or parsley and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese.

For extra flavor, top with toasted pine nuts or drizzle with olive oil! Pair with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Serving creamy ricotta chicken pasta is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Add Extra Cheese

• Parmesan: Grate additional Parmesan cheese over the dish just before serving for an extra cheesy touch.

Incorporate Nuts

• Toasted Pine Nuts: Add toasted pine nuts for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Serve with a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping in the creamy sauce.

Include Vegetables

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition to your meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Perfecting this creamy ricotta chicken pasta involves a few simple techniques that enhance flavor and texture. Keep these tips in mind for optimal results.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality ricotta and Parmesan cheese to achieve a rich and creamy sauce.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente to maintain texture and prevent it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired creaminess.
• Sauté Garlic Gently: Cook garlic until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness in your dish.
• Incorporate Greens Wisely: Add spinach or kale towards the end of cooking to keep them vibrant and nutrient-rich.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your dish before serving, adjusting seasoning as needed for maximum flavor.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Complementing your creamy ricotta chicken pasta with the right side dishes can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and pairs well with the creamy pasta.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious balance to the richness of the pasta.
3. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: These crispy potatoes offer a hearty side that’s full of flavor.
4. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create refreshing bites.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Seasoned asparagus spears are an elegant side that complements Italian flavors beautifully.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil makes for a perfect starter before diving into your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your creamy ricotta chicken pasta, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the Pasta Water: Not reserving pasta water can lead to a sauce that is too thick. Always save some before draining your pasta for the perfect consistency.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can dry it out. Aim for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked, then remove from heat.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning may result in bland pasta. Be generous with salt and pepper, and don’t forget the Italian seasoning!
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold ingredients to a hot pan can shock the dish. Allow ricotta and other dairy products to come to room temperature before cooking.
• Rushing Greens: Adding greens too early can make them wilted and unappealing. Stir them in just a few minutes before serving for optimal freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store creamy ricotta chicken pasta in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to label with the date.

Reheating Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water as needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta so special?

This dish combines tender chicken with a rich ricotta-Parmesan sauce, delivering exceptional flavor and creaminess that you’ll love.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne or tortiglioni works great, feel free to substitute with any favorite pasta type such as fettuccine or spaghetti.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it ideal for meal prepping lunches or dinners.

How can I customize my Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, switch up the greens with arugula or collard greens, or top with nuts for added crunch.

Final Thoughts

Creamy ricotta chicken pasta is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. Whether you prefer extra veggies or different proteins, this dish adapts beautifully. Give it a try next week!

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