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