When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. Enter: Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta—a dreamy combination of tender chicken, velvety ricotta, and perfectly cooked whole wheat pasta. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just dipping your toes into the world of cooking, this dish is about to become your go-to favorite. Trust me; your taste buds are in for a treat!
Why This Recipe is a Winner
Picture this: hearty whole wheat pasta tossed in a creamy ricotta-Parmesan sauce, combined with juicy chicken bites and the option to sneak in some greens. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—add a few red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or some fresh herbs for a burst of brightness.
Now, let’s dive into the recipe, starting with the essentials.
What You’ll Need
Before we get cooking, make sure you have these ingredients handy:
For the Pasta
- 12 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or tortiglioni are perfect here)
- Water for boiling
- Salt for the pasta water
For the Chicken and Sauce
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for that extra indulgence)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional, but highly recommended)
For Garnish
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Additional Parmesan cheese
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. It’s essential to salt the water generously—it should taste like the sea! Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions. For that perfect al dente texture, keep an eye on the timer.
Pro Tip: Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water. This starchy liquid is liquid gold for creating a silky sauce later.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it, set it aside, and get ready for the magic to happen.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta boils, grab a large skillet and heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chicken pieces, seasoning them with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through.
Once the chicken is done, transfer it to a plate and keep it warm. Don’t worry about wiping out the skillet—you’ll want all those delicious browned bits for the sauce.
The Secret to Perfect Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Here’s where this recipe truly shines: the creamy ricotta sauce. Unlike heavier sauces, ricotta brings a light yet luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with the hearty pasta and tender chicken. And the Parmesan? It’s the umami-packed cherry on top.
Now that our pasta is cooked and the chicken is golden and juicy, it’s time to bring everything together with a sauce that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This creamy ricotta sauce is the heart of the dish, and trust me, it’ll be love at first bite. Let’s dive into the next steps of this creamy pasta journey!
Step 3: Build the Ricotta Cream Sauce
Using the same skillet you cooked the chicken in (because why waste all that flavor?), reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn—it’s all about enhancing the dish, not overpowering it.
Next, turn the heat down to medium-low and stir in the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and chicken broth. If you’re in the mood for extra indulgence (and who isn’t?), this is the time to add that ½ cup of heavy cream. Stir everything together until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Now it’s time to add the magic touch: Italian seasoning for those herby notes, red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat, and salt and black pepper to taste. This is your chance to taste and adjust—make it yours!
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Once your sauce is smooth and seasoned to perfection, it’s time to reunite it with the chicken. Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet, tossing them gently in the sauce to coat them evenly. Let them simmer for a minute or two, so they absorb all that creamy goodness.
Now for the star of the show: the pasta. Add your cooked whole wheat pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce feels a little thick, this is where that reserved pasta water comes in handy. Gradually add it, a splash at a time, until the sauce clings perfectly to every bite of pasta.
Step 5: Sneak in the Greens (Optional but Delicious!)
If you’re incorporating spinach or kale, now’s the time to do it. Toss in the fresh greens and let them wilt for about 2-3 minutes. The heat from the sauce will soften them beautifully, adding a pop of color and a boost of nutrients to your dish. Plus, it’s a great way to balance out the richness of the sauce.
Tips for Success
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: Whole wheat pasta works beautifully here because it has a nutty flavor and holds up well to the creamy sauce. But if you prefer regular pasta or want to try gluten-free, go for it!
- Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, skip the heavy cream and use only ricotta and Parmesan for the sauce. You’ll still get a creamy texture without the extra richness.
- Amp Up the Flavor: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! A little extra garlic, a pinch more Parmesan, or a handful of fresh basil can take this dish to the next level.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finally, it’s time to plate your masterpiece. Spoon the pasta into bowls or onto plates, making sure every serving gets a generous amount of sauce and chicken. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley for a bright, fresh finish. And of course, don’t forget an extra sprinkle of Parmesan—because there’s no such thing as too much cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
From the creamy sauce to the perfectly tender chicken, every bite of this Ricotta Chicken Pasta is packed with flavor and comfort. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is secretly super simple. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or an elegant date night, it’s sure to impress.
Congratulations! You’ve made it to the final part of this culinary journey. By now, your kitchen is likely filled with the irresistible aroma of creamy ricotta and Parmesan mingling with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. Before we wrap up, let’s tackle some common questions and share a few final thoughts to ensure your Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta turns out flawless every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta fresh and combine everything in a skillet, reheating gently over low heat.
2. What’s the best substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you’re out of ricotta or looking for an alternative, cottage cheese is a great substitute. Blend it to achieve a smoother texture. Mascarpone or cream cheese can also work in a pinch, though they’ll create a richer flavor.
3. Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. Swap out chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Each option will bring its own unique flavor to the dish.
4. What’s the secret to preventing a grainy sauce?
Grainy sauces often happen when dairy-based ingredients are overheated. To avoid this, keep the heat at medium-low when adding the ricotta and Parmesan, and stir continuously to ensure a smooth consistency.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
You can freeze the cooked pasta and sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to revive the creamy texture.
6. How do I make this dish spicier?
For a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the sauce or add a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also drizzle the finished dish with chili oil for an extra punch of heat.
7. What side dishes pair well with this pasta?
This pasta shines as a standalone meal, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth Sharing
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta isn’t just a recipe—it’s an invitation to indulge in comfort food at its finest. From the creamy, herby sauce to the perfectly cooked chicken and pasta, every bite is a testament to the beauty of simple, high-quality ingredients coming together in harmony.
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Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken bites, velvety ricotta cheese, and perfectly cooked whole wheat pasta for a satisfying and wholesome meal. The optional addition of spinach or kale brings a nutritious touch, while the blend of Italian seasoning and garlic infuses the dish with rich flavor. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions!
Ingredients
- For the pasta:
- 12 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or tortiglioni)
- Water for boiling
- Salt for pasta water
- For the chicken and sauce:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
- ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- For garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Additional Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3️⃣ Prepare the Ricotta Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using). Stir until smooth.
Mix in Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if desired), and adjust with salt and pepper to taste.
4️⃣ Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together.
If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
5️⃣ Add Greens (Optional):
Stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook for 2-3 minutes, just until wilted.
6️⃣ Serve and Garnish:
Plate the pasta, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Whole wheat pasta adds a hearty texture and extra fiber to this dish.
- For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and add more greens or sautéed mushrooms.
- The heavy cream is optional but makes the sauce extra rich and indulgent.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
