Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is a simple, comforting dish that comes together quickly. With tender chicken, smooth ricotta sauce, and garlic-infused pasta, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from heat and slice.
- Step 3: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Lower the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese until a creamy sauce forms.
- Step 4: Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the ricotta sauce.
- Step 5: Serve warm, garnished with freshly ground black pepper or fresh herbs if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a handful of spinach or sun-dried tomatoes when stirring in the ricotta sauce.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit your dietary preferences.
- If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the dish before serving.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken before cooking to ensure it cooks evenly and safely.
Is ricotta cheese the same as cottage cheese?
No, ricotta is creamier and has a smoother texture compared to cottage cheese, making it ideal for creating a creamy pasta sauce.
PrintCreamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy ricotta sauce infused with garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it offers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures that the whole family will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or your choice)
Chicken
- 2 medium chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
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 before draining.
- Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil over medium heat in a skillet. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove from skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Ricotta Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Stir in ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese, mixing well to combine. Gradually add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta and Chicken: Add the drained pasta and sliced chicken back into the skillet with the ricotta sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Plate the creamy ricotta chicken pasta while warm. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a little more pasta water or a splash of milk to adjust the consistency.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best taste.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Keywords: Creamy ricotta chicken pasta, ricotta pasta, chicken pasta recipe, easy creamy pasta, garlic ricotta sauce
