Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of creamy ricotta chicken pasta after a long day. The velvety ricotta blends seamlessly with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, creating a dish that's both satisfying and incredibly easy to make.

I first discovered this recipe when searching for a quick dinner that felt indulgent but required minimal effort. Since then, it's become a household favorite, gracing our table whenever we crave something creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Get ready to add this recipe to your weekly rotation! This creamy ricotta chicken pasta isn't just delicious—it checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight meal.

First, it's quick and easy. From start to finish, you can have this dish on the table in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights when time is tight.

It's also budget-friendly. With simple pantry staples and an affordable protein, you can create a restaurant-quality dish without breaking the bank.

Not to mention, it's incredibly versatile. You can switch up the protein, add veggies, or adjust the seasonings to fit your preferences. Whether you're cooking for picky eaters or adventurous palates, this dish adapts beautifully.

Best of all, the creamy ricotta sauce is a game-changer. Unlike heavy cream-based sauces, ricotta keeps things light yet luxuriously creamy, making each bite absolutely irresistible.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this creamy ricotta chicken pasta comes from a handful of carefully chosen ingredients, each playing a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors.

Pasta forms the base of this dish, and I recommend using penne or rigatoni. Their ridges help catch the creamy ricotta sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you prefer a smoother texture, fettuccine or spaghetti work just as well.

Chicken is the star protein, and boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs both work beautifully. If you want extra juiciness and tenderness, opt for chicken thighs. Alternatively, rotisserie chicken can be a great time-saving substitute.

Ricotta cheese is the key to the luscious, creamy sauce. Whole milk ricotta provides the best texture and richness, but if you're looking for a lighter option, part-skim ricotta works too.

Garlic and onions add depth and a subtle sweetness to the sauce. Sautéing them until golden ensures a rich, flavorful base for the dish.

Parmesan cheese is the finishing touch that ties everything together. Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty depth that enhances the ricotta’s mild creaminess. For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or fresh basil.

How To Make This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Creating this dish is as easy as it is delicious. Follow these steps for a foolproof, restaurant-quality meal at home.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook your pasta until al dente, then reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy liquid will help create a silky, cohesive sauce later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then season and cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest while you prepare the sauce.

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté your onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. Stir in the ricotta cheese, gradually adding some reserved pasta water to loosen the mixture. The heat will gently warm the ricotta, creating a luxuriously creamy sauce.

Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pan. Toss everything together with the cooked pasta, ensuring each piece is coated in the creamy ricotta sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add more pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper. For an extra burst of freshness, top with chopped basil or parsley before serving.

Storage Options

This creamy ricotta chicken pasta stores beautifully, making it a great meal-prep option. If you have leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat, add a splash of water or milk to the pasta and warm it over low heat on the stovetop. This helps revive the creamy texture without drying it out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each one.

For longer storage, you can freeze this dish, though the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and reheat gently on the stove for best results.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are a few fun ways to customize it to your taste.

If you’re looking to add more vegetables, toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes. These ingredients pair beautifully with the creamy ricotta sauce.

For a heartier protein option, swap the chicken for Italian sausage or shrimp. Both add a unique depth of flavor that works perfectly with the dish.

Want to make it extra cheesy? Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella for an ultra-gooey, melty sauce that clings to every piece of pasta.

If you’re watching your carbs, you can replace traditional pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. The ricotta sauce still works beautifully, making it a great low-carb option.

No ricotta on hand? Try substituting with mascarpone or cottage cheese for a slightly different but equally delicious texture and flavor.

No matter how you customize it, this creamy ricotta chicken pasta is sure to be a hit. Have fun experimenting and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite!

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