Discover the Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe You’ll Love!

Get ready to indulge in a comforting and flavor-packed dish with this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta! This creamy pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and satisfying. Tender chicken, a silky ricotta cheese sauce, and al dente penne pasta come together in perfect harmony, creating a meal that will have your family coming back for seconds.

Table of Contents

Ingredient Breakdown

The key to this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is the carefully selected ingredients that work in harmony to create a rich, creamy, and utterly delectable dish. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this pasta masterpiece:

• 300g (10 oz) penne pasta – The perfect pasta shape to soak up all that creamy goodness.
• 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced – Tender chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and garlic.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic is a must for adding depth of flavor.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – The star of the show, creating a silky, creamy sauce.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – Enhances the creaminess of the ricotta.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For a touch of salty, nutty flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs – Brings an authentic Italian flair to the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional) – A pinch of heat to balance the richness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – A vibrant finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a breeze, and the results are well worth the minimal effort. Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen:

1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Garlic: Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the same skillet. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Make the Sauce: To the skillet, add the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, and chili flakes (if using). Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Serve: Garnish the Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting, cheesy goodness!

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a true crowd-pleaser and pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a slice of garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can also serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a side of steamed broccoli.

Nutritional Information

This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta dish is a well-balanced meal, providing a good source of protein from the chicken and a dose of healthy fats from the ricotta and heavy cream. The pasta and Parmesan cheese contribute carbohydrates and additional nutrients, making this a satisfying and nutritious dinner option.

Variations and Customizations

While the Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is delicious as-is, you can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or cubed tofu for a meatless version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

The Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, simply place the pasta in a skillet or saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help reconstitute the sauce. Stir frequently until heated through.

FAQs About Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

How long does it take to make creamy chicken pasta? This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta recipe can be prepared in just 30-40 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

Can you stir ricotta into pasta sauce? Absolutely! The ricotta cheese is the star ingredient in this recipe, creating a luscious, creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

How to stop ricotta curdling in pasta? To prevent the ricotta from curdling, be sure to gently fold it into the sauce rather than aggressively stirring. Additionally, adding the heavy cream helps to stabilize the ricotta and prevent it from separating.

Can you reheat ricotta pasta? Yes, you can easily reheat leftover Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta. Simply add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to help reconstitute the sauce and prevent it from drying out.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Garlic Shrimp
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta
• Creamy “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta

Indulge in the comforting and flavorful Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta tonight and let it become a new family favorite. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you craving more. Enjoy!

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