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Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta – A Comforting, Delicious Dinner Recipe


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  • Author: stacy
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Craving something creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor? This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of rich ricotta, tender chicken, and hearty pasta, all tossed together in a silky sauce. Quick to make and bursting with fresh ingredients, it’s the ultimate weeknight dinner that tastes like a restaurant-quality meal!


Ingredients

  • 12 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or Tortiglioni)
  • 1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
  • Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

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

2. Cook the Chicken

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add chicken, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Ricotta Sauce

  • In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Lower the heat and stir in ricotta, Parmesan, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using).
  • Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and adjust salt and pepper to taste.

4. Combine Everything

  • Return the chicken to the skillet and mix into the sauce.
  • Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat.
  • If needed, gradually add reserved pasta water to reach your preferred sauce consistency.

5. Add Greens (Optional)

  • Stir in fresh spinach or kale and let it wilt for 2-3 minutes.

6. Serve & Enjoy

  • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
  • Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy pasta dish!

Notes

  • Use fresh Parmesan and ricotta for the best flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente works best!
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
  • Add spice with extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
  • Make it extra creamy by adding more Parmesan or heavy cream.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired