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
Scale
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.
