Indulge in Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta – A Cozy Delight

Published: June 3, 2025

by mimi

Imagine yourself in a cozy kitchen, the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through the air, as you prepare a dish that promises to be a hug in a bowl. Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is not just food; it’s an experience, with rich textures and flavors dancing together in perfect harmony. As you take that first bite, the creamy ricotta envelopes your taste buds like a warm blanket on a chilly night. For more inspiration, check out this lunch ideas recipe.

Jump to:

Essential Ingredients
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Add Your Touch
Storing & Reheating
FAQ
Can I use other types of pasta?
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
How can I make this dish spicier?
📖 Recipe Card

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, often reminding me of family gatherings where laughter mingles with the delightful sounds of clinking cutlery. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress friends with minimal effort. Trust me; once you serve this dish, it’ll become your go-to recipe for any occasion. For more inspiration, check out this more dinner recipes recipe.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight cooking stress-free
The flavor profile is rich and indulgent without being overwhelming
The dish looks stunning, with its creamy sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta
It’s versatile enough to pair with different veggies or proteins based on your preferences

I still remember the first time I served this dish at a family dinner—everyone was asking for seconds and thirds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; it’s essential for that aromatic base.
Pasta of Choice: I prefer fettuccine or penne; they hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Ricotta Cheese: Use whole-milk ricotta for creaminess; it adds richness and depth to the pasta.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan gives an extra layer of flavor and a beautiful finish.
Spinach or Kale: Fresh greens add color and nutrients; feel free to substitute based on your preference.
Olive Oil: A splash of good-quality olive oil keeps everything moist and enhances flavor.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every ingredient’s taste—a little goes a long way!
Lemon Zest and Juice: Brightens up the dish wonderfully; freshness makes all the difference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally.

Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Add Garlic: Once the chicken is nearly done, add minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds—and avoid burning it for better flavor.

Create the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and stir in ricotta cheese along with some pasta water (about half a cup). Mix until creamy, adjusting consistency as needed by adding more water if necessary.

Toss in Greens: Add fresh spinach or kale into the sauce mixture. Stir until wilted down—this should take just 2-3 minutes—and infuse lovely flavors into your dish.

Add Pasta & Finish: Drain your pasta once cooked and toss it directly into the skillet with the chicken and sauce mix. Add lemon juice and zest before serving—this brightens up every bite beautifully!

Enjoy your Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta while still warm! Pair it with some crusty bread or a fresh salad for an unforgettable meal that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!

You Must Know

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and textures
The creamy sauce hugs the pasta perfectly, while fresh herbs elevate the taste
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser and can easily be adapted for any occasion

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy ricotta sauce for perfect timing.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition, making it uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic sautéed in olive oil before mixing in the ricotta
Always taste your sauce while cooking; adjusting seasoning makes a world of difference
Use fresh herbs whenever possible—they bring vibrant freshness to your dish!

Cooking this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta always brings back fond memories of family gatherings and laughter around the table.

FAQ

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta will work well, but shorter shapes hold the sauce better.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up according to your taste.