Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings comfort and sophistication to your dinner table. As I prepared this recipe, I couldn’t help but think about how pasta has been a beloved staple in many cultures for centuries, often serving as a canvas for a variety of flavors and ingredients. The combination of tender chicken, rich ricotta, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a symphony of taste and texture that is simply irresistible.

People adore Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta not just for its creamy, dreamy sauce but also for its convenience. It’s a one-pot wonder that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. The smooth ricotta adds a luxurious touch, while the chicken provides a satisfying protein boost. Trust me, once you try this dish, it will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or penne work great)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)

Preparing the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt to the water; it helps flavor the pasta as it cooks. 2. Once the water is boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, but keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t overcook. 3. When the pasta is done, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the rest. Set the pasta aside in a large bowl.

Cooking the Chicken

4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. I love using a non-stick skillet for this recipe; it makes cleanup a breeze! 5. Once the oil is hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet. Season them with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. You want to make sure there’s no pink in the center. 6. After the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Adding Vegetables

7. Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften slightly. The colors in the skillet will be so vibrant at this point!

Making the Creamy Sauce

8. Lower the heat to medium and add the ricotta cheese to the skillet. Stir it in until it’s well combined with the chicken and vegetables. The ricotta will create a creamy base for the sauce. 9. Gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water, a little at a time, stirring until you reach your desired sauce consistency. I usually find that 1/4 cup is just right, but feel free to adjust based on how creamy you want it. 10. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Combining Pasta and Sauce

11. Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy chicken and ricotta sauce. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. I like to use tongs for this; it makes it easier to mix without breaking the pasta. 12. If the pasta seems a bit dry, you can add a splash more of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Serving the Dish

13. Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the creamy ricotta chicken pasta in bowls or on plates. 14. Garnish with freshly chopped basil for a pop of color and flavor. You can also sprinkle a bit more Parmesan cheese on top if you’re feeling indulgent!

Tips and Variations

– If you want to add more veggies, consider tossing in some bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms when you add the tomatoes and spinach. They’ll add extra flavor and nutrition to the dish. – For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the ricotta with Greek yogurt. It will still be creamy but with fewer calories. – If you’re a fan of herbs, feel free to experiment with different fresh herbs like parsley or oregano for added flavor. – This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Enjoy your creamy ric

Conclusion:

In summary, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinners with a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated. The combination of tender chicken, rich ricotta, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds singing. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy evenings or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with a fresh side salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette to balance the creaminess of the pasta. You can also sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped fresh basil or parsley on top for an extra burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a hint of lemon zest to the sauce for a unique twist that will keep your family coming back for more. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add any special ingredients or make any variations? Share your thoughts and photos with me, and let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together! Happy cooking!

Print