Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Comforting And Delicious Dinner Recipe

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If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy pasta dish that’s quick and easy to make, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta recipe is a must-try! Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, it’s packed with flavor, comes together in under 30 minutes, and can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. Let’s dive in and discover why this dish will become a household favorite!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Quick and Easy to Prepare

This recipe is ideal for those nights when you want a hearty, homemade meal but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. With simple steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time.

Rich, Creamy, and Delicious

The combination of ricotta cheese and tender chicken creates a luscious, creamy sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta. It’s indulgent yet light enough to enjoy any day of the week.

Versatile and Family-Friendly

Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or adventurous foodies, this dish has something for everyone. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit dietary needs or flavor preferences.

Key Ingredients

Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta is the star of the sauce, bringing a creamy, mild flavor to the dish. You can use whole-milk ricotta for a richer taste or opt for part-skim ricotta for a lighter version. If ricotta isn’t available, mascarpone or cream cheese can be substituted.

Chicken

For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. They cook quickly and shred easily into the dish. Leftover rotisserie chicken is also a great option to save time.

Pasta

Choose sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or farfalle that hold the sauce well. For a gluten-free option, substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

Ingredients

300g (10 oz) pasta (penne or fusilli)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 chicken breasts, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 1/4 of the recipe)

Calories: 460
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 460mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 85mg

Other Essentials

Garlic and Onion: Add depth and flavor to the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Enhances the creaminess and adds a savory kick.
Fresh Herbs: Basil and parsley elevate the flavors and bring freshness to the dish.

How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Step 1 – Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your choice of Italian herbs. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing or shredding.

Step 2 – Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 3 – Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, sauté minced garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent. Lower the heat and stir in ricotta cheese, a splash of pasta water, and grated Parmesan. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4 – Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve the desired consistency. Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh ricotta and herbs make all the difference in flavor. Opt for high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best results.

Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Cooking the pasta al dente ensures it won’t become mushy when tossed in the sauce.

Adjust the Seasoning

Taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preferences.

Variations You’ll Love

Vegetarian Option

Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to create a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.

Spicy Kick

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a bit of heat.

Low-Carb Version

Replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, low-carb alternative.

Perfect Pairings

Salads

A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta perfectly.

Drinks

Pair this dish with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating Tips

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a milk or pasta water splash to revive the creamy texture.

FAQ

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and store them separately. Combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of ricotta? Mascarpone or cream cheese are great alternatives.
Is this dish freezer-friendly? While the sauce may lose some of its creaminess, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Reheat slowly and stir well.

Conclusion

This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delightful combination of simple ingredients and rich flavors. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner with friends, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Try it today and enjoy the perfect balance of comfort and elegance on your plate!

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