Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of creamy ricotta chicken pasta to make a weeknight dinner feel extra special. The rich, velvety sauce clings to every bite of tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta, making each forkful irresistibly delicious.

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I first tried this recipe when looking for a way to use up leftover ricotta, and it quickly became a household favorite. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, it’s now my go-to for busy nights when I want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor.

First, it's incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish on the table in under 30 minutes.

It’s also a budget-friendly option. Instead of expensive specialty cheeses, this recipe uses ricotta to achieve that creamy, indulgent texture—without breaking the bank.

Not to mention, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this pasta is guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The combination of creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta makes it a winning meal every time.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins, veggies, or pasta shapes based on what you have in your kitchen.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this creamy ricotta chicken pasta lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Pasta forms the base of this dish, and I recommend using penne or rigatoni. Their ridges help catch and hold onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. However, you can easily swap in spaghetti, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta.

Chicken is the star protein, and boneless, skinless chicken breasts work beautifully here. They cook up quickly and stay tender when simmered in the sauce. If you prefer a juicier option, chicken thighs are a great alternative.

Ricotta cheese gives the sauce its signature creaminess. Opt for whole milk ricotta for the best texture and richness. If you prefer a lighter option, part-skim ricotta works, but the sauce may be slightly less velvety.

Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty depth of flavor to the sauce. Freshly grated parmesan is best, as it melts seamlessly into the ricotta mixture. Pre-shredded varieties may not blend as smoothly.

Garlic and onion provide a flavor foundation that enhances the entire dish. Sautéing them in olive oil releases their natural sweetness, adding depth to the creamy sauce.

If you have a large skillet or sauté pan, it will help ensure even cooking and prevent overcrowding when preparing the chicken and sauce.

How To Make This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Making this dish is easier than you might think, and with just a few simple steps, you’ll have a comforting, creamy meal ready in no time.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining, as it will help create the perfect sauce consistency later.

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed, then sauté diced onions until soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Lower the heat and stir in ricotta cheese, grated parmesan, and a splash of pasta water. Mix until the ricotta melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. If it seems too thick, add a bit more pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Let it cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together.

Finish with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and fresh basil for a burst of freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, you’ll be happy to know this pasta stores well and reheats beautifully.

For refrigeration, store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The ricotta sauce may thicken slightly, but you can revive it by adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water when reheating.

For freezing, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring between each one to prevent uneven heating.

Variations and Substitutions

This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is incredibly adaptable, making it easy to tweak based on dietary needs and ingredient availability.

For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for extra texture and flavor.

If you love spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet-heat balance.

For a protein boost, swap chicken for cooked shrimp, ground turkey, or even crumbled Italian sausage. Each option brings its own unique flavor twist to the dish.

To lighten things up, use part-skim ricotta and replace half the pasta with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash. It keeps the dish creamy and satisfying while reducing the carb load.

No parmesan on hand? Try pecorino romano or asiago cheese for a slightly sharper, saltier taste.

No matter how you customize it, this creamy ricotta chicken pasta is a foolproof meal that always hits the spot. Give it a try, and don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it!

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