If you’re a fan of hearty pasta dishes and looking to elevate your dinner game, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is the ultimate recipe to try. Perfectly tender chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and al dente pasta come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Packed with flavor and made with simple ingredients, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re searching for quick weekday dinners or looking to impress your guests, this Chicken and Ricotta Recipe is the answer.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: You can customize the ingredients to suit your preferences.
- Creamy and Comforting: The ricotta cheese adds a rich and creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the chicken and pasta.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with both kids and adults, combining familiar flavors with a gourmet touch.
Ingredients for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
To make this delicious pasta dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breast: 2 medium-sized chicken breasts, sliced thinly for even cooking.
- Pasta: 300 grams (about 10 ounces) of your favorite pasta, such as penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
- Ricotta Cheese: 1 cup of fresh ricotta cheese to make the dish creamy.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for added flavor.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for cooking the chicken.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, to enhance the sauce’s richness.
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup, for a flavorful base.
- Heavy Cream: ½ cup, to create a luscious texture.
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated, for a cheesy finish.
- Spinach: 2 cups of fresh baby spinach (optional, but adds a great pop of color and nutrition).
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch for a subtle kick.
- Fresh Basil: Chopped, for garnish.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Follow these simple steps to create this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions.
- Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining the rest.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- While the pasta cooks, season the sliced chicken breast with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken slices and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden and fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the ricotta cheese and heavy cream, whisking until smooth and creamy.
- Add grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, allowing it to warm up in the sauce.
- Add the spinach and stir until wilted.
- Toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Divide the creamy ricotta chicken pasta into serving bowls.
- Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Making the Perfect Ricotta Chicken Pasta
- Use Fresh Ricotta: High-quality ricotta cheese will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Choose the Right Pasta: Short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni hold the creamy sauce well, but long noodles like fettuccine also work beautifully.
- Don’t Skip the Parmesan: Parmesan adds depth and a salty kick to the sauce.
- Add Vegetables: While spinach is a great addition, you can also use mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
Variations of Ricotta Chicken Recipes
1. Baked Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Turn this dish into a baked casserole by transferring the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
2. Lemon Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Add a refreshing twist by incorporating the zest and juice of one lemon into the sauce. The citrusy flavor pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta and chicken.
3. Herbed Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Enhance the flavors by mixing fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley into the ricotta cheese before adding it to the sauce.
4. Vegetarian Version
Skip the chicken and double up on the spinach or add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, eggplant, or butternut squash for a vegetarian twist.
Why Ricotta Cheese Is a Star Ingredient
Ricotta cheese is an incredibly versatile ingredient that shines in both sweet and savory dishes. In this Ricotta Cheese Recipe Easy, its creamy texture and mild flavor act as the perfect canvas for spices and other ingredients. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to heavy cream, making it a fantastic choice for pasta dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
2. Can I freeze Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta? It’s best to freeze the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta to maintain the texture. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before combining with freshly cooked pasta.
3. Can I use other types of cheese? Absolutely! While ricotta is the star, you can mix it with mascarpone, cream cheese, or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
4. What can I serve with this pasta dish? This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables.
5. Is this recipe kid-friendly? Yes, this recipe is mild and creamy, making it a hit with kids. You can omit the red pepper flakes for a completely kid-friendly version.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
Conclusion
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and flavorful ricotta cheese, it’s a recipe that you’ll want to make over and over again. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking a casual family meal, this dish is sure to impress.
If you’ve been searching for Ricotta Chicken Recipes, Chicken Ricotta Pasta, or easy and delicious ways to use ricotta cheese, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Give it a try, and let the flavors speak for themselves!
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