Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that warms the heart and satisfies the taste buds. This creamy pasta dish combines tender chicken, rich ricotta cheese, and a medley of flavors, making it perfect for cozy nights with loved ones. With its velvety texture and fresh ingredients, this recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the magic of this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Rich in flavor, thanks to the creamy ricotta sauce that perfectly coats the pasta.
Loaded with protein from chicken, offering a satisfying and hearty dish.
Versatile, allowing you to customize with your favorite vegetables or pasta types.
A healthy option that can be made gluten-free with the right pasta.
Great for meal prep, as leftovers taste even better the next day.

This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Ricotta is not just delicious; it’s also a healthy choice for dinner, making it a staple in my kitchen.

Ingredients for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Gather these items:

2 tbsp Olive Oil
1 cup Ricotta Cheese
½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
¾ cup Chicken Broth
1 tbsp Lemon Juice
2 cloves Minced Garlic
1 tsp Dried Italian Herbs
1 lb Chicken Breasts
to taste Salt and Pepper
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1 tsp Onion Powder
8 oz Pasta
1 cup Fresh Spinach
¼ cup Chopped Fresh Basil
Red Pepper Flakes

How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add in your favorite pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and sauté for 6-8 minutes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Lower the heat and mix in the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chicken broth, lemon juice, and dried Italian herbs. Stir continually for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy and velvety.
Step 5: Return the sautéed chicken to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated in the luscious sauce.
Step 6: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, cooking until just wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Then, fold in the cooked pasta until everything is evenly mixed and coated.
Step 7: Off the heat, gently stir in the chopped fresh basil and serve immediately. For a little heat, sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ricotta for a richer taste.
For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs beforehand.
Don’t overcook the spinach; just wilt it for the best texture.
If you’re looking for a one-pot creamy ricotta chicken pasta, consider cooking the pasta directly in the sauce for extra flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

This dish is truly versatile. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve it:

Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy finish.
Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the creaminess.
Serve alongside garlic bread for a complete Italian experience.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?

The secret lies in using high-quality ricotta and ensuring not to overcook the chicken. This keeps it tender and juicy, making your creamy chicken pasta with ricotta truly irresistible.

Can I make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just combine everything before serving for a quick and delicious meal.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to season your ingredients well and don’t rush the cooking process. Allow the sauce to simmer properly for a rich flavor.

Variations of Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta You Can Try

There are so many ways to customize this dish!

For a healthy creamy ricotta chicken pasta recipe, add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
Try using whole grain pasta for added nutrition.
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth is also gluten-free.

With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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For more delicious recipes, check out our Pumpkin Pecan Cobbler or Pumpkin Coffee Cake. If you’re interested in healthy options, you might enjoy our Vegan Berry Crisp as well. Don’t forget to try our Chewy Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cookies for a sweet treat!

For more information on the health benefits of ricotta cheese, you can visit Healthline.