If you are looking for a comforting yet elegant dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe will quickly become your go-to. It perfectly balances tender chicken pieces with a luscious, cheesy sauce made from ricotta and Parmesan, enveloping your favorite pasta in a rich, velvety embrace. This dish is as satisfying as it is simple, blending familiar flavors with creamy textures that elevate every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta recipe never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role, from the tender chicken to the creamy ricotta that brings such delightful richness. The combination of herbs and cheeses not only adds layers of flavor but also colors the dish with warmth and comfort.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and perfect tenderness.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a fruity base for sautéing the chicken and infusing the dish with subtle depth.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced for a punch of aromatic, savory goodness that forms the backbone of the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky texture that makes the sauce irresistibly creamy and luxurious.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: This fresh cheese adds lightness and softness, balancing the richness with its delicate flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty taste that deepens the sauce and adds a perfect salty bite.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Brings a sweet, herbal note that brightens the overall profile of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a warm, earthy undertone that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top for a pop of color and fresh herbal contrast.
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite): The canvas for this creamy symphony, holding the sauce beautifully.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or pasta water): Helps loosen the sauce while adding subtle savory notes and keeping everything moist.
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional): For an extra layer of richness and silky mouthfeel that makes every bite decadent.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning. This step builds the hearty foundation of your dish with tender, flavorful chicken pieces.
Step 2: Adding Garlic and Herbs
Once the chicken is nearly cooked, stir in the minced garlic, dried basil, and dried oregano. Cook for another minute or two until the garlic becomes fragrant but not burnt. This infusion of herbs and garlic elevates the dish with a fragrant, inviting aroma that hints at the creamy goodness to come.
Step 3: Making the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or reserved pasta water). Stir gently and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to slightly thicken. Then, add the ricotta cheese and Parmesan, stirring until the cheeses melt seamlessly into the sauce, creating an irresistibly silky texture. If you choose, stir in the butter at this point for added richness. The sauce is the heart of the Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe, providing that luscious mouthfeel everyone will adore.
Step 4: Cooking the Pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed. Toss the pasta directly into the sauce, gently mixing to coat every piece with that creamy, cheesy goodness. The sauce clings perfectly, turning simple pasta into a soul-satisfying meal.
How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top adds not only a burst of color but a fresh, vibrant flavor that cuts through the richness. You can also add a light dusting of extra Parmesan if you want to amplify the cheesiness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These sides add freshness and balance, complementing the creamy pasta without overshadowing it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more sophisticated touch, serve the Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce pooling around the pasta. Adding a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a few red pepper flakes can make the presentation pop and add an exciting flavor twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover pasta in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but a little stirring and gentle reheating will bring back its original creaminess.
Freezing
This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the creamy sauce might change slightly. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts. Stir frequently and add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce feels too thick. This will help restore that creamy consistency that’s so key to the Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe experience.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of ricotta?
While ricotta is key for that light, fluffy texture, you can substitute with mascarpone for a richer taste or cottage cheese for a lighter version, though the texture and flavor will slightly differ.
What types of pasta work best for this recipe?
Short pasta like penne or rigatoni work great because they hold the sauce well, but long pasta such as fettuccine is also fantastic if you prefer a more elegant presentation.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for hearty texture. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth keeps the flavor rich and satisfying.
How do I make the sauce thicker if it’s too runny?
Simmer the sauce over low heat without a lid to allow some liquid to evaporate. You can also add a bit more Parmesan or a small spoonful of ricotta to thicken it naturally.
Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! Cook the chicken and boil the pasta in advance. Store them separately and combine with the freshly made sauce when ready to serve for maximum freshness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe is a beautiful reminder that comfort food can be both simple and extraordinary. Its rich, velvety sauce and tender chicken pieces make every meal feel special, and its straightforward steps invite you to enjoy the cooking process without any fuss. I can’t wait for you to try it and add this delicious staple to your recipe collection—it’s destined to become a favorite in your household as well.
Print
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
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a luscious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken breast pieces with a rich and velvety sauce made from ricotta, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Enhanced with garlic and Italian herbs, this pasta recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish, and uses simple ingredients that deliver incredible flavor.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 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 and Garnish
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite type)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook 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 until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or reserved pasta water), stirring to combine. Add the dried basil, dried oregano, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, and butter if using. Stir continuously over medium heat until the cheeses melt and the sauce is creamy and smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce and the chicken is heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the pasta for a touch of freshness and color. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with pasta cooking water to enhance the flavor and maintain sauce consistency.
- Using fresh herbs instead of dried will intensify the flavor if available.
- To lighten the dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad.
