This Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta combines tender, juicy chicken with a rich and velvety ricotta Alfredo sauce. The garlic butter-infused chicken adds depth to the dish, while the Parmesan-enhanced ricotta sauce brings a luxurious creaminess to every bite.
- Perfectly Seared Chicken – Juicy, well-seasoned chicken with a golden-brown crust.
- Luscious Alfredo Sauce – Ricotta, heavy cream, and Parmesan create an ultra-creamy texture.
- Quick & Simple – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
- Customizable – Swap the chicken for shrimp, mushrooms, or even grilled vegetables for a twist.
Preparation & Essential Tools
Tools Needed
- Large pot – For boiling pasta
- Large skillet – To cook the chicken and make the sauce
- Tongs – For flipping the chicken
- Blender or food processor – To create a smooth ricotta sauce
- Knife & cutting board – For slicing chicken and mincing garlic
Preparation Tips
- Use room temperature chicken – This ensures even cooking.
- Salt your pasta water well – Enhances the pasta’s natural flavor.
- Blend the ricotta mixture thoroughly – This prevents a grainy sauce.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine (or pasta of choice)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from skillet and let it rest before slicing into thin strips.
3. Make the Ricotta Alfredo Sauce
- In a blender or food processor, combine ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the ricotta mixture and add garlic powder.
- Stir continuously and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is warmed through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine & Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it with the ricotta Alfredo sauce.
- Arrange sliced chicken on top of the pasta.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
This dish is best served immediately while the sauce is warm and creamy.
Best Side Dishes for Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo
A rich and creamy pasta dish like Garlic Butter Chicken with Ricotta Alfredo pairs well with lighter, refreshing sides to balance the flavors. Here are some excellent side dishes to serve with this meal.
1. Garlic Bread
A crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect companion to creamy Alfredo pasta. The crunchy texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth sauce, and it’s great for scooping up any extra Alfredo.
2. Roasted Broccoli
Lightly charred and crisp-tender, roasted broccoli adds a slightly smoky flavor that pairs well with the richness of the pasta. Toss it with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.
3. Caesar Salad
A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, Parmesan, and croutons provides a fresh contrast to the heavy creaminess of the pasta. The tangy dressing cuts through the richness, making each bite more refreshing.
4. Sautéed Spinach
Quickly sautéed spinach with olive oil and garlic is a light and nutritious side. Its slightly bitter taste balances out the Alfredo sauce without overpowering the dish.
5. Bruschetta
A tomato-based bruschetta brings acidity and freshness to the meal. The combination of ripe tomatoes, basil, olive oil, and balsamic glaze provides a bright contrast to the creamy pasta.
6. Grilled Asparagus
A simple side of grilled asparagus seasoned with salt, pepper, and lemon juice enhances the dish with a touch of smokiness and a slight crunch.
7. Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a great light side dish. The acidity and creaminess of the salad complement the Alfredo sauce perfectly.
8. Mushroom Sauté
Earthy mushrooms sautéed with garlic and butter add depth to the meal. Mushrooms have a natural umami flavor that enhances the pasta and chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Alfredo pasta with garlic butter chicken is simple, but small mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s how to avoid them.
1. Overcooking the Chicken
Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. To ensure juicy, tender chicken, cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.
2. Not Salting the Pasta Water
Pasta absorbs the water it cooks in, so if the water is bland, the pasta will be too. Add at least 1 tablespoon of salt per 4 quarts of water to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
3. Skipping Pasta Water for the Sauce
Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Adding a little to the Alfredo sauce helps adjust the consistency, making it silkier and better coated on the pasta.
4. Using Cold Ricotta
If the ricotta is too cold, it may not blend smoothly into the Alfredo sauce. Allow it to come to room temperature before blending for a creamy, lump-free consistency.
5. Not Letting the Chicken Rest
Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking releases its juices, making it drier. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep it moist.
6. Overcooking the Pasta
For the best texture, cook the pasta al dente, meaning it should have a slight bite to it. Overcooked pasta will become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
7. Forgetting to Stir the Sauce
Dairy-based sauces can separate if left sitting for too long. Stir the Alfredo sauce constantly over low to medium heat to prevent curdling.
8. Serving the Dish Cold
This dish is best served immediately after combining the pasta, sauce, and chicken. Alfredo sauce thickens as it cools, so if it sits too long, it may need a splash of warm cream or pasta water to restore its silky texture.
By following these tips, you can ensure your Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta turns out rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced every time.
Recipe Tips, Storage, and FAQs
Best Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Alfredo
A creamy Alfredo pasta with garlic butter chicken should be rich, flavorful, and well-balanced. These expert tips will help you achieve the best texture and taste.
1. Use High-Quality Parmesan
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and has a stronger, nuttier flavor compared to pre-packaged grated cheese.
2. Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet
When cooking the chicken, avoid overcrowding the skillet. This ensures an even sear and prevents steaming, which can make the chicken rubbery instead of golden and crispy.
3. Adjust the Sauce Consistency
If the Alfredo sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of warm pasta water or milk to loosen it. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for an extra minute or two.
4. Cook Garlic Until Fragrant, Not Burnt
Garlic burns quickly, turning bitter. Cook it over medium heat for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, then add the remaining ingredients.
5. Let the Chicken Rest Before Slicing
Resting the chicken for at least 5 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist. Cutting it too soon will cause the juices to run out, making it dry.
6. Mix the Pasta and Sauce Well
Coat the pasta thoroughly with the Alfredo sauce before serving. Toss it in the skillet for at least a minute to help the sauce cling to every strand.
How to Store & Reheat
If you have leftovers, proper storage and reheating will help maintain the dish’s texture and flavor.
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep the chicken separate if possible to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick.
Freezing
- This dish is not ideal for freezing because the Alfredo sauce may separate when thawed.
- If freezing, store only the cooked chicken and freshly cook the pasta and sauce when reheating.
Reheating Instructions
- On the Stovetop (Best Method): Add a splash of milk or cream to a pan and heat over low to medium heat, stirring constantly until warmed through.
- In the Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, add a tablespoon of milk, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until hot.
- For the Chicken: Reheat separately in a skillet over medium heat for a crispier texture, or microwave for 30-60 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this without ricotta?
Yes. You can substitute cream cheese or mascarpone for a similar creamy texture, though the flavor will be slightly different.
2. What’s the best pasta to use?
Fettuccine is the classic choice, but linguine, spaghetti, or penne also work well. Choose pasta that holds sauce well.
3. Can I use pre-made Alfredo sauce?
Yes, but homemade ricotta Alfredo has a fresher and creamier taste. If using store-bought sauce, add extra garlic and Parmesan for more flavor.
4. How can I make this dish lighter?
For a lighter version:
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Substitute some of the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Use grilled chicken instead of pan-seared for less fat.
5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes. Simply omit the chicken and add mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a flavorful alternative.
6. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?
Ensure the ricotta and Parmesan are fully blended before adding to the pan. Cooking the sauce over low to medium heat also prevents curdling.
7. Can I add other proteins?
Absolutely. Shrimp, salmon, or even grilled steak make excellent substitutions for chicken.
8. What herbs can I add for more flavor?
Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano can enhance the dish. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a slight kick.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for special occasions. By following these tips and techniques, you can ensure a rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced pasta every time.
For more delicious pasta recipes, try:
- Classic Chicken Alfredo
- Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta
- Mushroom Alfredo with Spinach
Enjoy your meal and happy cooking.
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