There are some meals that become part of your story—dishes that remind you of warm, laughter-filled dinners or the simple joy of gathering around a table with loved ones. For me, Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is one of those meals.
I first discovered the magic of ricotta cheese in pasta during a summer spent in Italy. While visiting a small family-run trattoria, I ordered a dish that seemed unassuming: pasta coated in a silky ricotta sauce, topped with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan. The first bite was pure heaven—creamy yet light, with just the right balance of richness and freshness.
When I returned home, I knew I had to recreate that experience. Over time, I added my own twist by incorporating tender chicken for protein, a touch of garlic for depth, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. The result? A comforting, creamy pasta dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. It’s perfect for weeknights when you want something easy but satisfying, yet elegant enough to serve to guests.
If you’re looking for a meal that’s packed with flavor, simple to make, and guaranteed to become a family favorite, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is the one.
Why This Pasta Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Collection
1. Incredibly Creamy Yet Light
Unlike heavier Alfredo-style sauces, ricotta cheese creates a creamy texture without feeling too rich. The addition of Parmesan enhances the depth of flavor while keeping the sauce light and velvety.
2. Packed with Protein
With lean chicken breast as the star protein, this dish is both filling and balanced. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a satisfying meal without relying on heavy cream-based sauces.
3. Quick and Easy to Make
From start to finish, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast but still crave a homemade meal.
4. Versatile and Customizable
This pasta is a blank canvas for your creativity. Want to make it vegetarian? Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas. Prefer a spicier kick? Increase the red pepper flakes or drizzle with chili oil before serving.
5. Great for Meal Prep
This dish reheats beautifully, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal the next day without any fuss.
Ingredients: A Perfect Blend of Comfort and Flavor
- 12 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or tortiglioni)
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or pasta cooking water)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Directions: Bringing Creamy Pasta Perfection to Life
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water if using instead of chicken broth.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Build the Creamy Ricotta Sauce
- In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth (or pasta water), and heavy cream (if using).
- Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce.
- If using, stir in fresh spinach or kale and let it wilt for 2-3 minutes.
- Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, if desired.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for an extra burst of freshness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown: A Balanced Indulgence
- Calories: ~520 per serving
- Protein: ~40g
- Fats: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fiber: ~6g
- Calcium: ~25% of daily intake
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Since this pasta dish is rich and creamy, pairing it with the right sides helps balance the meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a fresh, slightly charred contrast.
- Crisp Side Salad: A simple arugula or mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Knots: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of the luscious ricotta sauce.
- Bruschetta: A light, refreshing appetizer that adds a touch of brightness to your meal.
Expert Tips for the Best Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
- Use Fresh Ricotta: High-quality ricotta makes all the difference. Look for one that is smooth and creamy rather than grainy.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it maintains a firm texture and absorbs the sauce better.
- Don’t Skip the Pasta Water or Chicken Broth: This helps loosen the sauce, creating a perfect consistency that coats the pasta evenly.
- Let the Flavors Meld: Tossing the pasta with the sauce for a few minutes off the heat allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley not only adds color but also enhances the dish’s overall taste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Using Cold Ricotta Directly from the Fridge
Cold ricotta can create a lumpy sauce. Let it come to room temperature before mixing it with the pasta for a smoother consistency.
2. Overcooking the Chicken
Since chicken breast is lean, it can dry out quickly. Cook it just until it’s no longer pink in the center for the juiciest results.
3. Skipping the Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan adds umami depth and saltiness to the dish. Without it, the sauce may taste flat.
4. Not Seasoning Enough
Since ricotta is mild, be sure to season the dish well with salt, black pepper, and Italian herbs to enhance the flavors.
5. Using the Wrong Pasta Shape
Choose a pasta shape that holds onto the creamy sauce well, such as penne, rigatoni, or tortiglioni. Avoid spaghetti or angel hair, as they don’t capture the sauce as effectively.
FAQs: Your Questions, Answered
1. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, warm everything in a pan with a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water.
2. Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.
3. What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or chicken broth to revive the sauce.
4. Can I Use Low-Fat Ricotta?
Yes, but full-fat ricotta will provide a richer, creamier texture. If using low-fat, consider adding a bit more Parmesan to maintain flavor.
5. Can I Freeze This Pasta?
Freezing is not recommended, as ricotta-based sauces can become grainy when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately and prepare fresh pasta when needed.
6. Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Yes! While Parmesan and ricotta create a classic Italian flavor, you can experiment with pecorino romano, gouda, or even a touch of cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Final Thoughts: A Recipe That Feels Like a Warm Hug
There’s something undeniably comforting about a dish like Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta. It’s simple yet indulgent, familiar yet refined. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner, serving it to guests, or enjoying a quiet meal by yourself, this dish delivers on every level.
The best recipes are the ones that become part of your story—the meals that make their way onto your family’s dinner table time and time again. This one is sure to be a keeper.
So grab your ingredients, cook up a pot of pasta, and savor every creamy, garlicky, cheese-filled bite. Because some meals aren’t just about food—they’re about memories, comfort, and the love that goes into every dish.
Would you like additional variations or serving suggestions? Let me know how I can help!
Print
One-Pan Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. Juicy, seasoned chicken, whole wheat pasta, and a velvety ricotta-Parmesan sauce come together for a dish that’s both hearty and light. With a touch of garlic, Italian herbs, and fresh basil or parsley, this easy, flavor-packed pasta is perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner at home
Ingredients
- 12 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or tortiglioni)
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or pasta cooking water)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water if not using chicken broth. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6-8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Reduce heat and stir in ricotta, Parmesan, chicken broth (or pasta water), and heavy cream (if using). Stir until smooth.
- Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Stir in spinach or kale, if using, and let it wilt for 2-3 minutes. Add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Garnish and Serve: Adjust seasoning if needed. Top with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.
- If using low-fat ricotta, add a splash of extra broth or cream for a smoother texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of broth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: Italian
