Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta
This creamy chicken ricotta pasta is a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender chicken pieces are combined with a rich ricotta sauce, fresh greens, and your favorite pasta for a balanced meal that's both hearty and light. Fresh basil or parsley adds a final touch of brightness.
Servings: 4
Calories: 610kcal
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons 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
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale optional
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, chicken broth (or reserved pasta water), and heavy cream (if using).
- Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and combined.
Combine Ingredients:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce.
- Stir in the spinach or kale, if using, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until wilted.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Customization: Add cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for extra bursts of flavor.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with garlic bread or a crisp side salad.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.