Name: Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese; 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

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Imagine sitting down to a bowl of creamy ricotta chicken pasta, where each twirl of the fork brings together tender chicken and luscious sauce. The aroma wafts through the air like a warm hug from your grandma—comforting and just a little nostalgic.

I can’t help but smile whenever I make this dish; it reminds me of those chaotic weeknights when my family would gather around the table after long days. The anticipation of digging into something rich and creamy made it all worthwhile, evoking laughter and stories that could fill an entire novel.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
It boasts a flavor profile that balances rich creaminess with aromatic herbs
The vibrant colors make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Plus, it’s versatile enough to swap in any protein or veggies you have on hand

One time at a family gathering, everyone raved about how delicious the dish was; I’m pretty sure my cousin nearly declared his love for it!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts works best; they cook evenly and soak up flavors beautifully.
Fresh Garlic: Fresh is key! Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor impact in your sauce.
Ricotta Cheese: Go for whole-milk ricotta; it adds creaminess and richness that makes this dish sing.
Pasta (Fettuccine or Penne): Use your favorite type; just remember to cook until al dente for the perfect bite.
Fresh Basil: A handful of basil leaves adds brightness and a refreshing touch to the final dish.
Pine Nuts: Toasted pine nuts add crunch and depth; don’t skip them if you can help it!
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and sautéing; it’s rich in flavor and healthy fats.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors in this creamy delight!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make It Together

Sautéing the Chicken: Start by heating about two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Add Aromatics: Toss in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking the chicken until fragrant—this should take around 30 seconds as you stir continuously so it doesn’t burn!

Creamy Sauce Magic: Reduce heat to low and stir in ricotta cheese while adding about half a cup of reserved pasta water—this creates an incredibly smooth sauce that hugs every piece of chicken.

Pasta Perfection: Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining—it helps adjust the sauce later!

Toss It All Together!: Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet with your creamy mixture. Stir gently to combine everything while adding more reserved pasta water if needed until desired consistency is reached.

Add Freshness & Serve!: Finally, toss in chopped basil and toasted pine nuts before serving up generous portions into bowls! Enjoy with extra cheese if you’re feeling fancy.

This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience—a delightful blend of comfort food that’ll have you coming back for seconds…or thirds…who’s counting?

You Must Know

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl
The creamy texture and aromatic flavors create an inviting experience
This dish is perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a comforting night in

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first to lock in moisture, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This approach ensures everything finishes at the same time, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ricotta with mascarpone for an even richer flavor or toss in some spinach for extra nutrition. Personalize it with your favorite herbs or spices to make it uniquely yours!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm on low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water to maintain creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; it melts better and enhances flavor
When cooking pasta, reserve some pasta water to help adjust sauce consistency later
Taste as you go; seasoning can make or break this dish!

Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my sister’s dinner party where this dish won rave reviews! Everyone kept asking for seconds, and I secretly wished I had saved some for myself.

FAQ

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

Mascarpone cheese works well if you want a creamier texture.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes are excellent additions.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.