Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a rich, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, velvety ricotta cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying meal. With a hint of garlic, parmesan, and fresh herbs, it’s an easy and delicious weeknight dinner!
Preparation: 10 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Pasta & Chicken:
12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
For the Ricotta Sauce:
1 cup ricotta cheese (whole milk for creaminess)
½ cup grated feta cheese
½ cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ cup pasta water (reserved from boiling pasta)
For Garnish:
2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley (chopped)
½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved, optional)
Extra parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Before draining, reserve ¼ cup of pasta water for the sauce.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chicken, season with Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked.
Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat.
Make the Ricotta Sauce:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together ricotta, parmesan, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Stir in the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Combine Everything:
Add the drained pasta and cooked chicken to the skillet.
Pour the ricotta sauce over everything and toss gently until well coated.
If needed, add extra pasta water to adjust consistency.
Serve & Garnish:
Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley, cherry tomatoes (if using), and extra parmesan.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Use Fresh Ricotta
– It gives a smoother, richer texture.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta
– Keep it al dente for the best bite.
Want More Flavor?
Add a splash of lemon juice or sun-dried tomatoes for extra tang.
Make It Spicier
– Increase the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot honey.
Make It Healthier
– Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or cottage cheese.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approx.)
Calories: ~520 kcal
Protein: ~40g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Fats: ~18g
Fiber: ~3g
Sodium: ~500mg