There’s something enchantingly comforting about a plate of creamy ricotta chicken pasta. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, each bite enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce that’s rich yet light. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame. Trust me; this dish is not just food; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and makes your heart sing.
I remember the first time I made creamy ricotta chicken pasta for my family. It was one of those chaotic weeknight dinners where everything seemed to go wrong. But as soon as they took their first bites, the chaos melted away, replaced by delighted smiles and happy chatter. It became our go-to meal for celebrations and cozy evenings alike. For more inspiration, check out this easy dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Its flavor profile balances rich creaminess with savory chicken and fresh herbs
- The vibrant colors make it visually stunning, sure to impress at any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt with seasonal veggies or different proteins
Family members couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was—a moment I’ll cherish forever. For more inspiration, check out this delicious lunch ideas recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work well; adjust the amount based on your crowd size.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for the best flavor; minced garlic elevates the dish’s aroma.
- Ricotta Cheese: Opt for whole milk ricotta for a creamier texture that brings everything together beautifully.
- Pasta of Choice: I prefer fettuccine or penne, but any pasta will do nicely.
- Fresh Spinach: A handful adds color and nutrients; look for vibrant green leaves for freshness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano gives a nutty depth—don’t skimp!
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor; it enhances every element in this dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all those glorious flavors; adjust to taste.
- Herbs (Basil or Parsley): Fresh herbs add brightness; use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cooking creamy ricotta chicken pasta is as delightful as enjoying it. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together.
Prepare the Chicken: Begin by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
Sauté the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Create the Pasta Base: In a separate pot, boil water and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
Add Garlic and Spinach: In the same skillet used for chicken, add minced garlic and fresh spinach. Sauté until fragrant and spinach wilts down beautifully—about 1-2 minutes.
Mingle with Ricotta: Lower heat and add ricotta cheese along with a splash of reserved pasta water into the skillet. Stir until creamy and smooth, letting everything blend together harmoniously.
Toss It All Together: Finally, add the drained pasta into the skillet with the chicken and sauce mixture. Toss gently until everything is coated in that dreamy ricotta sauce—feel free to sprinkle in more cheese!
Now you’re ready to serve this delicious creation!
This creamy ricotta chicken pasta isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to happen on your dinner table!
You Must Know
- This creamy ricotta chicken pasta recipe is a quick weeknight meal that feels gourmet
- The rich flavors and comforting textures will make your taste buds sing
- Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up even after a long day at work
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the pasta while preparing the creamy sauce. This sequence optimizes time and flavor, ensuring everything is ready to serve together.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in spinach for a pop of color or add sun-dried tomatoes for a zing. You can also experiment with different herbs like basil or thyme for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to revive its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh ricotta for better flavor; it transforms this dish into something extraordinary
- When cooking pasta, add salt to the water—it should taste like the sea for perfect seasoning
- Don’t rush the sauce; let it simmer to enhance the flavors fully
I once made this creamy ricotta chicken pasta for my friends during a game night, and they couldn’t believe how quickly it came together! Their compliments were as satisfying as devouring seconds.
FAQ
Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, try using mascarpone or cream cheese for a different creamy texture.
How do I prevent my pasta from sticking together?
Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking and rinse with cold water after draining.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for lunches.
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy ricotta chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious ricotta sauce, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also an impressive centerpiece for any dinner gathering. With its rich yet light flavor profile, it promises to delight your taste buds and warm your heart.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (basil or parsley) for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; sauté chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
- 2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- 3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and spinach; sauté until fragrant and spinach wilts (about 1-2 minutes).
- 4. Lower heat and mix in ricotta cheese with a splash of reserved pasta water; stir until creamy.
- 5. Add drained pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet; toss gently to combine everything in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg