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Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe

4.9 from 127 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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