If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and elegant, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Packed with tender chicken, luscious ricotta, and a beautifully balanced blend of herbs and cheeses, this pasta dish offers a silky sauce that clings perfectly to every bite. It’s such a comforting combination that feels fancy yet so simple to make, bringing a warm, homemade touch to your dinner table any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this dish, and the exciting part is just how straightforward they are. Each component plays a crucial role in building the flavors, texture, and vibrant look that make this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe truly memorable.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking and tender bites.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant punch that infuses the sauce with depth.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Provides luscious creaminess that makes the sauce irresistible.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: Adds a light, fluffy texture that elevates the sauce to silky perfection.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings nutty, savory notes that complement the ricotta beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: A fragrant herb that adds subtle sweetness and aroma.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a hint of earthiness to balance the creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: For a fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the dish.
- 12 oz pasta (your choice): Penne, fettuccine, or your favorite—perfect for catching the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or pasta water: Adds depth and helps achieve the ideal sauce consistency.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional): For an extra touch of richness if you want to make it even more decadent.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken until it becomes golden brown and is cooked through, usually about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds the flavorful foundation for the whole dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant, careful not to burn it. The garlic infuses the oil and chicken with aromatic warmth that will blend beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Create the Sauce Base
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or pasta water) to the skillet. Stir gently to combine, letting the mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This step helps the sauce start to thicken and develop its comforting richness.
Step 4: Add Cheeses and Herbs
Now it’s time to add the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, dried basil, and oregano right into the pan. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt seamlessly into the sauce, creating that signature silky texture. Adding herbs here ensures their flavors meld beautifully with the creamy base.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook your chosen pasta according to package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining—that starchy water can help loosen the sauce if needed.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce and chicken. Mix everything together gently so each noodle gets deliciously coated. If you want extra richness, stir in a tablespoon of butter here for a velvety finish.
How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled over the top adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh flavor contrast to the creamy sauce. For an extra touch, consider grating a bit more Parmesan just before serving—it melts slightly and adds a tempting salty bite.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables. Steamed broccoli or asparagus with a squeeze of lemon bring a refreshing balance to this decadent pasta, enriching the meal with a bit of crunch and brightness.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra-special presentation, serve the pasta in warm bowls with a nest of fresh herbs on top. You can also drizzle a little high-quality olive oil or a balsamic glaze around the edge for a restaurant-worthy flair. These little details make the meal feel truly indulgent and thoughtfully crafted.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it an excellent choice for next-day lunches or quick dinners. Just be sure to cool it before refrigerating to maintain the best texture.
Freezing
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe can be frozen, but because of the cream and ricotta, the texture might change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. Add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Alternatively, warming in the microwave in short bursts with stirring works well too.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of ricotta?
Absolutely! While ricotta adds a unique creaminess and light texture, you can substitute with cream cheese or mascarpone for a similarly indulgent effect, though the flavor profile will shift slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! Simply swap out the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. The sauce and chicken remain the same, preserving all the flavor without the gluten.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Of course! Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes are fantastic additions that complement the creamy sauce and chicken deliciously.
How can I make this recipe lighter?
Try using half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream, and reduce the cheese quantities slightly. Keep in mind this will make the sauce less rich but still tasty.
What pasta shape works best for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni are great choices because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce exceptionally well, making every bite satisfying and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate. It’s approachable enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough for casual dinner parties. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how this creamy, cheesy, and aromatic dish will quickly become a beloved classic in your kitchen.
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Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a luscious, comforting dish perfect for dinner. Tender bite-sized chicken pieces are seared to perfection and combined with a rich sauce made from heavy cream, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses, enhanced with garlic and Italian herbs. Tossed with your choice of pasta, this recipe is garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Ideal for a satisfying meal that balances creamy indulgence with savory flavors.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or pasta water)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)
Pasta & Garnish
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite type)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
- Create the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and dried oregano to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheeses melt and combine smoothly with the cream, forming a thick sauce.
- Add Broth and Butter: Pour in the chicken broth (or reserved pasta water) and add the butter if using. Stir well to integrate all ingredients, allowing the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Cook Pasta: Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce, then toss in the drained pasta. Mix thoroughly so that the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy ricotta sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with pasta water to maintain flavor and consistency.
- For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less thick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor.
- Feel free to swap the chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier texture.
- Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give a subtle heat to the dish.
