Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner is one of my favorite go-to dishes. It perfectly combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich ricotta sauce that feels like a warm hug on your plate. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

What makes this recipe even more special is how easy it is to whip up. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a satisfying meal that tastes like it took hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this creamy pasta!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, dinner will be on the table in no time.
• Family favorite: The creamy ricotta and fresh veggies make this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time; it reheats wonderfully for lunch or dinner later in the week.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You likely have many of these staples in your pantry already!

For the Pasta

• 8 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or penne)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 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

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have available.

• Swap the protein: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Try adding bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Toss in some diced jalapeños along with the garlic if you’re looking for a kick.
• Change up the cheese: Substitute goat cheese or cream cheese if you want a different creamy flavor profile.

How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember, reserving 1/4 cup of that starchy pasta water will help create a silky sauce later!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, drizzle in the olive oil. Once it’s hot, add your bite-sized chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. The smell will be heavenly! Don’t forget to add minced garlic during the last minute of cooking—it adds such wonderful flavor.

Step 3: Add Veggies

Next up are those bright cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves. Toss them into the skillet and stir everything together for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and those tomatoes soften nicely. This step brings vibrant colors and nutrients into your dish!

Step 4: Make it Creamy

Lower the heat to medium, then add in your ricotta cheese. Stir well until everything is combined—this is where things get creamy! Gradually pour in that reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired sauce consistency. Finally, mix in grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Taste it and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add your cooked pasta into the skillet with all that creamy goodness. Gently toss everything so that every piece of pasta gets coated in that luscious sauce. If it seems dry at all, don’t hesitate to add more reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Remove from heat and serve your Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta hot! Garnish each plate with freshly chopped basil and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you’d like. Enjoy every delightful bite!

With this recipe in hand, you’ll not only have an easy dinner option but also create wonderful memories around the table with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, you’ll elevate your creamy ricotta chicken pasta to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality ricotta cheese make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture. They enhance the overall taste of the dish, resulting in a more vibrant meal.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking your pasta al dente ensures it maintains a slight bite, which helps it hold up against the creamy sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its appeal.
• Adjust the sauce consistency: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add more reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess. This will help create that luscious coating on every piece of pasta.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add herbs like oregano or thyme for extra depth. These can complement the ricotta and chicken beautifully while adding an aromatic touch to your dish.
• Make it a one-pan meal: For fewer dishes, cook your pasta directly in the skillet after sautéing the chicken and veggies. Just add enough broth or water to cover, making cleanup a breeze!

How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner

Presenting your dish beautifully can enhance the dining experience! Here are some ideas to make your creamy ricotta chicken pasta shine at the table.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley or basil: Fresh herbs not only add color but also introduce a burst of flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
• Lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest right before serving brightens the dish with a refreshing citrus note.
• Toasted pine nuts: Adding a handful of toasted pine nuts gives a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds a flavorful crunch that pairs excellently with pasta dishes.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the rich pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus provide additional nutrition and flavor while complementing this comforting meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet effective, steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients while being an easy side to prepare alongside your main dish.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy a delightful dinner experience with friends or family! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is not only quick to make but also fantastic for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If possible, store the sauce separately from the pasta to maintain texture.

Freezing

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into airtight freezer bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label and date each container; it can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Stir frequently until heated through; avoid overheating to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish!

Can I use whole wheat pasta for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative that adds extra fiber and nutrients while still complementing the creamy sauce beautifully.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese in Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?

If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can substitute cottage cheese blended until smooth or even a plant-based cream cheese for a dairy-free option.

How can I make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or include diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables.

Can I add other vegetables to Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?

Yes, feel free to experiment! Zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli would all work wonderfully and enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this creamy ricotta chicken pasta! It’s such a comforting and satisfying meal that brings everyone together at the dinner table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!