Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta after a long day. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety ricotta-based sauce makes this dish irresistibly rich and satisfying. With just the right balance of creamy and savory flavors, it's a meal that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

this Recipe

I first created this recipe when I had leftover ricotta cheese from another dish and needed a way to use it up. What started as a quick experiment turned into a family favorite that now makes a regular appearance on our dinner table. This easy and delicious pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve to guests.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort meal. This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is not just delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it a must-try recipe for any home cook.

First off, it’s quick and convenient. From start to finish, you’ll have a rich and creamy pasta dish on the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those nights when you want something homemade but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.

It’s also budget-friendly. With a handful of simple, everyday ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank. Chicken, pasta, and ricotta are all affordable staples that come together beautifully.

And let’s not forget how versatile it is. You can easily customize this dish by adding spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. Whether you stick to the original or put your own spin on it, the result will always be delicious.

Best of all, it’s picky-eater approved. Even the fussiest eaters will love the creamy, cheesy goodness of this pasta. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta comes from its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating a dish that’s both comforting and crave-worthy.

Pasta is the foundation of this dish, and I recommend using short pasta like penne or rigatoni. These shapes hold the creamy ricotta sauce well, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you prefer long pasta, fettuccine or linguine also work beautifully.

Chicken adds protein and makes this dish a complete meal. I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and absorb the flavors of the sauce. If you prefer, you can swap in chicken thighs for a juicier option.

Ricotta cheese is the star of the sauce, lending a light yet creamy texture. Opt for full-fat ricotta for the best flavor and consistency. If you like a richer taste, you can mix in a bit of mascarpone or cream cheese.

Garlic and onions form the aromatic base of the sauce. Sautéing them in a bit of olive oil releases their natural sweetness and enhances the overall depth of flavor.

A bit of Parmesan cheese adds a sharp, salty bite that balances the creaminess of the ricotta. Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

How To Make This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Creating this creamy and satisfying dish is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting pasta dinner ready in no time.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining—this will help loosen the sauce later if needed.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning, then cook it until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the onions until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant. This creates a flavorful base for your creamy sauce.

Lower the heat and stir in the ricotta cheese, a splash of pasta water, and a bit of Parmesan. Whisk everything together until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add more pasta water if you prefer a thinner consistency.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss in the drained pasta. Stir well to coat everything in the luscious ricotta sauce. Let it warm through for a minute or two before serving.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta stores well and reheats beautifully.

If you have extra, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

To reheat, warm it gently in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring between each to ensure even warming.

Variations and Substitutions

This pasta dish is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to get creative with different flavors and ingredients!

Want to add some veggies? Stir in baby spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrition.

For a little spice, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or add a spoonful of spicy Calabrian chili paste to the sauce.

If you’re out of ricotta, you can swap in cottage cheese (blended until smooth) or even a mix of Greek yogurt and cream cheese for a tangier twist.

Make it heartier by adding crispy bacon or pancetta. Their smoky, salty crunch takes this dish to the next level.

For a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta—the creamy ricotta sauce works just as well with alternative pasta varieties.

With so many ways to customize this dish, you’ll never get bored. Try out different combinations and make it your own!

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