Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delightful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With tender chicken, a luscious ricotta-Parmesan sauce, and vibrant greens, it brings comfort food to a whole new level. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or hosting friends, this recipe promises to impress with its rich flavors and creamy texture.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For Greens (Optional)
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Ricotta Cream Sauce
• Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
• Step 5: Add Greens (Optional)
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
• Pair with a Fresh Salad
• Add Crunchy Toppings
• Enhance with Fresh Herbs
• Serve with Garlic Bread
• How to Perfect Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
• Reheating Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?
• Can I customize my Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?
• How do I store leftover Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?
• What type of pasta works best?
• Can I make this dish dairy-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Creamy Goodness: The combination of ricotta and Parmesan creates a rich sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices.
• Healthy Option: Made with whole wheat pasta and fresh greens, it’s a wholesome choice without sacrificing taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish appeals to both kids and adults alike, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys their meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking, gather the necessary tools to streamline your process. Having everything ready will make preparing your creamy ricotta chicken pasta smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Pasta strainer
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently, ensuring even cooking.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Pasta strainer: Allows you to drain the pasta quickly while reserving water when needed.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or tortiglioni)

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Greens (Optional)

• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)

For Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

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How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Lower the heat to medium-low and add ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using). Stir until smooth. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Add Greens (Optional)

Stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Plate your creamy ricotta chicken pasta. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and sprinkle with additional Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad complements the richness of the pasta beautifully.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Toasted Pine Nuts: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
• Croutons: Use homemade or store-bought croutons for extra texture.

Enhance with Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley to brighten the dish.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives add a mild onion flavor that pairs well with ricotta.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread makes for a perfect side to mop up any remaining sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Top your garlic bread with mozzarella for an extra cheesy delight.

How to Perfect Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

To ensure your Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Selecting fresh ricotta and high-quality chicken will elevate the flavors significantly.
• Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess.
• Season Generously: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed; salt and pepper can make a big difference.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the pasta is cooked just right to maintain its texture when combined with the sauce.
• Add Greens at the End: Stir in greens like spinach or kale just before serving to keep them vibrant and nutritious.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Adding side dishes can round out your meal beautifully. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil enhances flavor and adds color.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic provides a crunchy contrast.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrients without overwhelming the dish.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives creates a rich tasting experience.
6. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, serve zoodles tossed in olive oil and garlic alongside the pasta.
7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness that complements the savory pasta.
8. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty addition to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make some common missteps. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the pasta water: Not reserving pasta water can lead to a sauce that is too thick. Always save some pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can dry it out. Aim for perfectly golden pieces by cooking just until no longer pink inside.
• Ignoring seasoning: Under-seasoning can leave your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, and spices to enhance flavor.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using wilted or old greens can affect the dish’s freshness. Always choose vibrant, fresh spinach or kale for the best flavor.
• Forgetting to garnish: Skipping the garnish makes your dish less appealing. Fresh herbs and extra cheese add both flavor and visual appeal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date.

Reheating Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of water or broth and stir until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delicious dish made with tender chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and fresh greens combined with pasta for a satisfying meal.

Can I customize my Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or switch out proteins for shrimp or tofu depending on your preference.

How do I store leftover Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months in freezer-safe containers.

What type of pasta works best?

While penne or tortiglioni are excellent choices, you can use any pasta shape you prefer – just ensure it holds onto the creamy sauce well!

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute ricotta cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese for a similar flavor profile without dairy.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is not only rich and flavorful but also perfect for customization. Feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs to make this dish truly your own! It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet wholesome. Try it out today!

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