Creamy ricotta chicken pasta served in a bowl with fresh herbs

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

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Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of pasta, tender chicken, and creamy ricotta. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering a delicious and fulfilling meal that your whole family will love. With its rich and creamy sauce, this recipe stands out as a flavorful favorite.

How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

  • 300g (10 oz) penne pasta
  • 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken slices, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Sprinkle in Italian herbs and chili flakes (if using).
  6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until well combined.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta immediately after cooking. You can plate it on individual dishes or serve it family-style from the skillet. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese will make the dish even more inviting. Pair it with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or cream in a skillet over low heat and stir occasionally until warmed through.

Tips to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

  • Make sure the chicken is cooked through to avoid any food safety issues.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
  • Feel free to adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your spice preference.
  • You can add other vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, for extra color and nutrition.

Variation

For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat pasta or substituting the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a different twist on this dish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Fettuccine, spaghetti, or bowtie pasta are all great options.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and simply add the cooked pasta and chicken just before serving.

What can I serve with Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta?

It pairs well with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread to complete the meal.

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Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

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  • Author: younes37-ys
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian
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Description

A delightful dish with comforting flavors of pasta, tender chicken, and creamy ricotta, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 300g (10 oz) penne pasta
  • 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken slices, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Sprinkle in Italian herbs and chili flakes (if using).
  6. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until well combined.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Notes

For a lighter version, consider whole wheat pasta or Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream. Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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