If you are searching for a dish that perfectly combines comfort with a touch of elegance, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe is destined to become your new go-to. Imagine tender chicken pieces enveloped in a luscious, creamy ricotta sauce that clings lovingly to each strand of perfectly cooked pasta. Bursts of juicy cherry tomatoes and vibrant spinach add color and freshness, making every bite a delightful harmony of flavors and textures. This recipe is not only incredibly satisfying but also surprisingly simple, creating a dinner that feels special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe has a special role, whether to build the rich creaminess, add a fresh pop of color, or bring in subtle layers of flavor. The simplicity of the components means you can trust each one to deliver exactly what the dish needs.
- 8 ounces pasta (fettuccine or penne): Choose your favorite shape to catch the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a silky base for sautéing chicken and garlic without overpowering the dish.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Tender protein that soaks up the flavors with every bite.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for perfectly seasoning both the chicken and pasta.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth that brightens the sauce.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of sweetness balancing the creamy texture.
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves: A healthy, vibrant green that melts gently into the warm sauce.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: The heart of the recipe, delivering that irresistibly creamy consistency.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nuttiness that deepens every forkful.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Provides a slight kick if you enjoy a little heat.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish): Fresh herbaceous notes that brighten each serving.
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved): A magical ingredient that loosens the sauce and helps it cling beautifully to the pasta.
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Adding salt enhances the pasta’s flavor from the inside out. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente, usually around 8 to 10 minutes. Before draining, reserve a little bit of the pasta water—this starchy liquid is key to adjusting our sauce’s texture later on. Set the pasta aside in a large bowl to keep it ready for combining.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces and season generously with salt and pepper. Cook them until golden brown and perfectly cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step not only cooks the chicken but also builds a beautiful base flavor that the sauce will lean on.
Step 3: Add Garlic, Tomatoes, and Spinach
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about a minute until fragrant—this little burst of aroma makes all the difference. Next, throw in the cherry tomatoes and spinach leaves, stirring them with the chicken. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften, blending freshness with savory charm.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Ricotta Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the ricotta cheese, coaxing it until it’s evenly melted and combined with the chicken and vegetables. Gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time to reach the sauce consistency you love—silky but not runny. Next, fold in the Parmesan cheese along with optional red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Taste and adjust salt and pepper to make everything pop.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your cooked pasta back into the skillet and gently toss everything until every strand or piece is beautifully coated in the creamy ricotta sauce. If it feels like the sauce isn’t quite clinging enough, splash in a bit more pasta water to loosen things up.
Step 6: Ready to Serve
Remove from heat and transfer the creamy ricotta chicken pasta to serving bowls or plates, garnishing with freshly chopped basil and a little extra Parmesan if desired. The aroma and vibrant colors on the plate will invite everyone to dig into this very special dinner.
How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped basil is the go-to garnish because its bright, peppery notes cut through the richness while enhancing the aroma. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese just before serving elevates the dish further, adding a salty tang that makes every bite sing. For a pop of color and texture, you can add a few whole cherry tomatoes or a pinch of red pepper flakes on top.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp green salad—think mixed baby greens with a simple lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette is also fantastic for mopping up every last drop of sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add a welcome crunch and earthy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party vibe, serve the Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe family-style directly from the skillet to the table, topped with plenty of basil and Parmesan. Alternatively, portion the pasta alongside roasted tomato halves and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on each plate. Garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens can also add a creative, restaurant-worthy touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld overnight, and reheating gently will bring the sauce back to its delicious creamy texture.
Freezing
This creamy pasta doesn’t freeze as well because ricotta can separate, but if you want to freeze portions, do so before adding the ricotta sauce. Freeze the cooked chicken and pasta separately, then mix and add the fresh ricotta sauce when ready to serve.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers slowly in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth as needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the sauce to curdle. Stir gently until heated through and creamy again, then garnish fresh before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of ricotta?
Ricotta’s mild creaminess is unique, but you can experiment with mascarpone or cream cheese for a similar texture. Just keep in mind the flavor may be richer or tangier, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
What pasta shape works best with this recipe?
Fettuccine and penne are fantastic because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. However, feel free to use any pasta you love or have on hand—just adjust cooking time as needed.
Is this recipe gluten-free friendly?
Yes! Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free option. The sauce and chicken remain the same, so the flavor won’t miss a beat.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers sautéed along with the spinach and tomatoes can add extra flavor and nutrition. Just keep the balance so the sauce stays creamy and not watery.
How spicy is this recipe with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth without overpowering the dish. You can easily omit them or adjust the amount to suit your heat preference perfectly.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those fantastic meals that feels indulgent but comes together with ease, making it a true winner for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how the combination of simple ingredients creates something truly memorable. Once you do, it’s bound to become a beloved recipe in your collection, just like it is in mine!
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Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a quick and comforting dinner recipe featuring tender chicken, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a luscious ricotta and Parmesan cheese sauce. Ready in 30 minutes, this dish combines simple ingredients for a flavorful, creamy pasta perfect for weeknight meals.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Chicken
- 8 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables and Sauce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the rest. Set the drained pasta aside in a large bowl.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
- Make the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium and add the ricotta cheese, stirring until well combined. Gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if using, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash more reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the creamy ricotta chicken pasta in bowls or on plates. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add crushed chili flakes.
- You can substitute baby kale for spinach if preferred; just adjust cooking time until wilted.
- Using fresh pasta will reduce the cooking time but check package instructions accordingly.
- Reserve some pasta water carefully as it helps to create a silky sauce texture.
- If you want a lower fat option, use part-skim ricotta and reduce the olive oil slightly.
