There is nothing quite like comforting yourself with a rich, luscious dish after a long day, and this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe delivers just that in every bite. Imagine tender chunks of chicken perfectly seared and tossed in a velvety sauce made from ricotta and Parmesan cheeses, accented by fragrant herbs and a hint of garlic. The pasta effortlessly soaks up every bit of this creamy goodness, making it an irresistible meal for any night of the week. If you’re craving a dish that feels special but comes together quickly and easily, this recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully simple but each plays an essential role in creating the rich flavor and appealing texture of the dish. From the juicy chicken to the creamy ricotta, everything blends together beautifully to form a sauce that clings lovingly to every strand of your pasta.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces): The star protein that stays tender and juicy with quick cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for a golden sear that locks in the chicken’s natural flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasoning that enhances every component.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Adds a subtle punch of aroma and depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky base of the sauce, making it irresistibly smooth.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: The creamy heart of the recipe, lending richness without overpowering.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp umami notes and helps thicken the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a fragrant herbal hint that feels fresh and balanced.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Complements the basil with subtle earthiness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): A bright and fresh finish to the dish.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite type): Your canvas for soaking up all that luscious sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or pasta water): Helps loosen the sauce if needed and adds depth.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness): A final touch if you want that extra velvety finish.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning the bite-sized pieces of chicken with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken pieces. Cook them until they’re golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in the juices and creates a beautiful texture contrast that makes each bite deliciously satisfying.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute. This gentle cooking releases the garlic’s aroma without burning it, which is key for that subtle but flavorful base that makes the sauce shine.
Step 3: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the garlic and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the ricotta cheese and grated Parmesan until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the dried basil and oregano, then let everything cook together for a few minutes so the herbs infuse their flavor. This step is where the sauce transforms into the irresistible, velvety coating your pasta will soon soak up.
Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta and the chicken broth (or reserved pasta water). Toss everything gently, allowing the sauce to evenly coat every piece of chicken and pasta. If you want an extra rich touch, stir in the butter here. Let the dish cook for another couple of minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens just right.
Step 5: Final Touches
Before serving, taste everything and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley over the top to add a pop of color and freshness that brightens the entire dish.
How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish that adds a vibrant green hue and a touch of freshness. You can also consider adding a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few chili flakes for a bit of heat. These garnishes elevate the dish both visually and in flavor, turning a cozy meal into a memorable one.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, consider serving this creamy pasta alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli, also complement the rich sauce perfectly, adding texture and a healthy balance. Garlic bread on the side is always a wonderful way to soak up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta in individual pasta bowls and top with a sprig of fresh herbs for a restaurant-style presentation. You could also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or drizzle a little good-quality olive oil for a gourmet touch. For gatherings, serve the pasta family-style in a large beautiful dish so everyone gets to enjoy the creamy goodness together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce thickens upon cooling, so you may need to stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to loosen it back up to the perfect consistency.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to avoid separating the sauce.
Reheating
Reheat on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a little chicken broth or cream as needed to bring back that velvety, luscious sauce texture without drying out the pasta or chicken. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep everything tender and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?
Ricotta provides a unique creaminess without being too heavy, but you can experiment with cream cheese or mascarpone for similar richness. Just keep in mind that changing the cheese will alter the texture and flavor slightly.
What pasta shapes work best for this recipe?
Penne, fettuccine, or any medium-sized pasta with grooves or ridges works wonderfully because they hold the creamy sauce well. Feel free to use your favorite pasta to make it your own.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or even crispy tofu to keep things hearty and satisfying while maintaining the creamy sauce experience.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
Using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reducing the amount of cheese can lighten the dish. Also, increasing the ratio of vegetables, like spinach or zucchini, can add bulk without extra calories.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply cook the pasta fresh and combine everything just before enjoying.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but special enough to impress anyone you share it with. Once you taste that perfect, creamy sauce wrapped around tender chicken and your favorite pasta, I guarantee you’ll be coming back to this recipe again and again.
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Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A deliciously creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta that combines tender chicken breast pieces in a rich sauce made from ricotta, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, flavored with garlic and herbs. This comforting pasta dish comes together quickly, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or pasta water)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)
Pasta and Garnish
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite type)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or reserved pasta water). Stir in the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, dried basil, and dried oregano. Simmer gently, stirring, until the sauce is creamy and heated through, about 3-5 minutes. If using, stir in the butter for extra richness.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat all pasta with the creamy sauce and chicken. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta warm.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
- You can swap chicken broth for reserved pasta water to add flavor and loosen the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the chicken broth/pasta water or simmer a bit longer.
