Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta

Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the richness of ricotta cheese with tender chicken and fresh greens. This creamy pasta meal is perfect for any occasion, from quick weeknight dinners to cozy family gatherings. Its unique blend of flavors and textures will impress your guests while being simple enough for a busy night at home.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Pasta
• For the Chicken
• For the Sauce
• For the Greens
• For Garnish
• How to Make Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta
• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 3: Make the Sauce
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
• How to Serve Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta
• Pair with Fresh Greens
• Add Crunchy Elements
• Enhance with Accompaniments
• How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta
• Reheating Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta?
• Can I customize my Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta?
• How do I make this recipe healthier?
• What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta?
• How long does Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta last?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy ricotta sauce adds a deliciously rich flavor without being overly heavy, setting this dish apart from traditional pasta recipes.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins, allowing you to make it your own every time.
• Healthy Option: Using whole wheat pasta and fresh greens makes this dish a healthier choice compared to typical creamy pastas.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of fresh spinach or kale, along with basil or parsley garnish, make this dish a feast for the eyes.

Tools and Preparation

Before jumping into the cooking process, gather all essential tools and equipment to ensure a smooth preparation experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking of the chicken and quick preparation of the sauce without transferring to different pots.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures that the pasta cooks evenly in salted water, which enhances its flavor.

Ingredients

A creamy, cheesy pasta dish with tender chicken and fresh greens, this ricotta-based sauce adds a lighter, yet rich flavor to your favorite pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!

For the Pasta

• 12 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or tortiglioni)

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Greens

• 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)

For Garnish

• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

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How to Make Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil water in a large pot and add salt.
2. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Season chicken pieces with salt and black pepper.
3. Sauté for 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Stir in ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chicken broth (or reserved pasta water), and heavy cream if using.
3. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if desired, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with sauce.
2. Toss in drained pasta until everything is evenly coated.
3. If using spinach or kale, add it now and cook until wilted.
4. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

1. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving hot.
2. Enjoy your Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta

Serving your Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish that will impress your family and friends.

Pair with Fresh Greens

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a variety of greens dressed in a tangy vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the pasta.
• Spinach Salad: Toss fresh spinach with sliced strawberries and a balsamic glaze for a refreshing contrast.

Add Crunchy Elements

• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for scooping up sauce and adds a satisfying crunch to your meal.
• Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette to soak up every last bit of the creamy sauce.

Enhance with Accompaniments

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate extra Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for an added burst of flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Offer red pepper flakes on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta

Cooking the perfect Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ricotta cheese and good-quality chicken make a significant difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta until al dente; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce thickness.
• Sauté Garlic Carefully: Cook garlic just until fragrant; burning it can lead to a bitter taste.
• Season Generously: Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper to enhance flavors throughout the dish.
• Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil or parsley right before serving for an aromatic finish.

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Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta enhances the overall meal. Consider these options for a well-rounded dining experience.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing offer a classic pairing that complements the creamy pasta.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring in earthy flavors that balance the richness of the dish.
3. Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, bruschetta adds a refreshing element that contrasts nicely with the pasta.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with lemon juice provides freshness and color on your plate.
5. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic and Parmesan make for a hearty side.
6. Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables can be a delightful starter or accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Ignoring the Pasta Cooking Time: Cooking pasta for too long can result in mushy noodles. Always follow the package instructions and check for al dente.
• Not Reserving Pasta Water: This starchy water is essential for adjusting sauce consistency. Always reserve some before draining your pasta.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Cook until just golden brown and no longer pink in the center.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Lack of seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Don’t forget to season each layer of your dish, including the chicken and sauce.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using wilted greens or low-quality cheese can diminish flavor. Always opt for fresh spinach or kale and good-quality ricotta cheese.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure the pasta has cooled down before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta?

Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta is a delicious dish featuring tender chicken pieces tossed with pasta in a creamy ricotta cheese sauce, often enhanced with fresh greens.

Can I customize my Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes, adjust spices, or even use different types of pasta.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

To make it healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta, reducing heavy cream, or adding more vegetables such as zucchini or bell peppers.

What can I serve with Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta?

This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or a light side salad for a complete meal experience.

How long does Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta last?

In the fridge, it lasts up to 3 days; if frozen properly, it can be enjoyed for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta is not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or sides for an even more delightful meal experience!