Nothing says comfort like a big bowl of Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta. Imagine tender chicken swimming in a rich, velvety sauce that hugs each strand of pasta like an old friend. The aroma wafting from the kitchen is enough to make even the crankiest of eaters perk up and rejoice. For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that can elevate any weeknight dinner or serve as a showstopper at your next gathering. Trust me, once you taste this creamy goodness, you’ll want to make it an essential part of your culinary repertoire.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile balances savory and creamy notes that please every palate
- Visually, it’s a feast for the eyes with its vibrant colors and textures
- Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish fits any occasion perfectly
I still remember the first time I made this dish for my family; their eyes lit up as they took their first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose about 3-4 chicken breasts; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you have to feed.
Fresh Garlic: Use firm, fresh garlic cloves for that punchy flavor that makes everything better.
Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for creamy richness; it makes all the difference.
Pasta of Your Choice: I love using fettuccine or penne, but any pasta you enjoy will work wonderfully.
Fresh Spinach: Adds color and nutrients; use baby spinach for tenderness and ease.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate some fresh Parmesan on top for that extra layer of flavor.
Olive Oil: For sautéing; choose high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the dish’s flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to elevate every ingredient’s natural goodness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients together; this will streamline your cooking process and ensure everything flows smoothly.
Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper before adding it to the pan, cooking until golden brown and cooked through.
Add Garlic and Spinach: Once the chicken is done, toss in minced garlic and cook until fragrant—about one minute—then add fresh spinach until wilted.
Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat slightly and stir in ricotta cheese along with a splash of pasta water for creaminess. Mix thoroughly until smooth.
Toss with Pasta: Add your cooked pasta into the skillet along with grated Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until everything is coated in that luscious sauce.
Serve and Enjoy!: Plate your creamy ricotta chicken pasta while it’s hot, garnishing with more Parmesan if desired. Don’t forget to savor every bite!
Now you’re ready to impress yourself and anyone lucky enough to join you at your table!
You Must Know
- This creamy ricotta chicken pasta recipe is a delightful blend of flavors
- The sauce is rich and velvety, making it a hit for weeknight dinners or special occasions
- You’ll find the vibrant colors and aromas irresistible, leaving everyone wanting seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in flavors, then cook your pasta while preparing the silky sauce simultaneously. This method ensures everything comes together perfectly without overcooking any component.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or veggies for a twist. Adding fresh herbs like basil can elevate the dish even further, giving it a burst of flavor that’s simply irresistible.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to revive that creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your pasta is al dente to maintain its texture when mixed with the sauce
- Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning as needed
- Use high-quality ricotta for a richer flavor that truly enhances the dish
Cooking this creamy ricotta chicken pasta always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter fills the air, and everyone fights over who gets to lick the plate clean.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta adds extra fiber and a nutty flavor to your dish.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese or mascarpone for a different yet delicious creamy texture.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap regular pasta with gluten-free pasta made from rice or chickpeas for a tasty alternative.
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish that brings together tender chicken and pasta enveloped in a rich, velvety ricotta sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe offers a delightful experience that will impress your family and friends. The vibrant colors and luscious flavors make every bite irresistible, turning any meal into a memorable gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute), then add spinach until wilted.
- Lower heat, stir in ricotta cheese and a splash of pasta water until smooth.
- Add cooked pasta and grated Parmesan to the skillet, stirring gently to coat in sauce.
- Plate while hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
