Description
Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish that delivers rich flavors and creamy textures in every bite. Made with tender pieces of chicken, fresh greens, and a velvety ricotta sauce, this pasta dish is an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. In just 30 minutes, you can create a delightful meal that everyone will love. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein options to make it your own. This recipe combines convenience and taste, ensuring that you can enjoy a satisfying dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or tortiglioni)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the whole wheat pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet.
- Sauté minced garlic in the same skillet for a minute. Stir in ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, and optional heavy cream until smooth.
- Return the chicken to the pan along with the drained pasta; toss to combine. Add spinach or kale and cook until wilted. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg