Indulge in the ultimate weeknight comfort with this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta – a dish that brings together tender bites of chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luscious ricotta-based sauce that’s both light and velvety.
Every forkful is rich with flavor yet wonderfully balanced, making it a family favorite that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner at home or impressing guests, this pasta is bound to shine.
If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet is simple enough to prepare without stress, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a winner.
Combining tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a velvety ricotta-based sauce, it’s a dish that strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance.
Unlike heavy cream-based sauces, ricotta lends a lighter, fluffier texture while still delivering richness. The fresh herbs, garlic, and Parmesan add depth, while a hint of lemon brightens every bite. This pasta is hearty enough for family meals yet sophisticated enough to serve when guests come over.
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Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Description
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delightful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, velvety ricotta-based sauce.
The ricotta adds a luscious creaminess without being overly heavy, while garlic, herbs, and Parmesan infuse the dish with depth and flavor.
Juicy chicken pieces blend seamlessly with the pasta, creating a wholesome meal that feels both indulgent and balanced.
This pasta is ideal for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying yet simple to prepare.
Garnished with fresh basil or parsley, it brings a restaurant-quality taste to the dinner table with minimal effort and maximum comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside. -
Prepare the chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning, and cook until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes). Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. -
Build the flavor base
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a touch more oil if needed. Sauté the onion until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. These aromatics form the foundation of the creamy sauce.
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Make the creamy ricotta sauce
Lower the heat slightly. Add ricotta cheese, chicken broth, and milk to the skillet, whisking gently until the mixture smooths out into a creamy consistency. Stir in Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, remaining Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. -
Combine pasta and chicken
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in reserved pasta water until you reach a silky, cling-to-the-pasta consistency. -
Finish and serve
Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and give everything one last gentle stir. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top and maybe a slice of garlic bread on the side.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 520kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 19g30%
- Saturated Fat 7g35%
- Cholesterol 95mg32%
- Sodium 480mg20%
- Total Carbohydrate 48g16%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 4g
- Protein 36g72%
- Calcium 190 mg
- Iron 2.5 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta – Tips & Servings
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that blends tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a luxuriously creamy ricotta-based sauce.
It’s a versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners yet feels special enough for entertaining. Below are practical tips for preparing, enhancing, and serving this dish to make it a memorable favorite at your table.
Cooking Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta Shape:
While spaghetti or linguine can be used, short pasta shapes such as penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are ideal. Their ridges and curves hold the creamy ricotta sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful. - Season Every Step:
Don’t forget to season the chicken generously before cooking. A simple mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of paprika enhances flavor. Also, season your pasta water with plenty of salt—this is the foundation of flavor for the whole dish. - Use Fresh Ricotta:
Fresh, good-quality ricotta makes a big difference in taste and texture. Avoid overly watery ricotta—if yours is runny, drain it through cheesecloth for about 20 minutes before using. - Add Depth with Aromatics:
Start your sauce base with sautéed garlic and onions. For extra richness, a splash of dry white wine or chicken broth can be reduced before adding ricotta and cream. This builds layers of flavor that balance the mild ricotta. - Balance the Creaminess:
Ricotta alone can feel heavy, so lighten it by combining it with a bit of cream or milk. For extra tang, add a spoonful of cream cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan, which also boosts umami. A handful of fresh spinach or sun-dried tomatoes folded into the sauce adds freshness and color. - Cook the Chicken Properly:
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking. Sear the chicken until golden brown before adding it to the sauce—this locks in moisture and creates a nice texture contrast against the creamy pasta. - Reserve Pasta Water:
Save about one cup of starchy pasta cooking water. If the sauce becomes too thick, add small amounts until you reach a silky, clinging consistency. This prevents the sauce from drying out. - Herbs & Seasonings for Brightness:
Fresh herbs such as basil, parsley, or thyme bring freshness to the dish. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds gentle heat that balances the creamy texture. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice to cut through richness. - Make-Ahead & Storage:
This pasta can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid freezing, as ricotta tends to separate when thawed.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but thoughtful accompaniments can elevate it into a memorable dinner spread:
- With Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the sauce.
- With Vegetables: A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli balances the richness.
- With Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with lemon complements the dish perfectly.
- Portioning: For a standard serving, plan about 2 ounces (dry weight) of pasta and 4 ounces of chicken per person. This makes the dish hearty without being overwhelming.
- Serving Size: This recipe typically serves 4–6 people, depending on appetite. For gatherings, it can be easily doubled and baked in a large casserole dish topped with extra Parmesan for a slightly different twist.
Tips & Variations
- Vegetable Boost: Stir in baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli just before serving for added nutrients and color.
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, Italian sausage, or even grilled tofu for a twist.
- Make it Baked: Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Herb Upgrade: Fresh basil or thyme adds a wonderful aromatic note if you have them on hand.
Storage & Reheating
This pasta stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The ricotta sauce may thicken when cooled, so when reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back its creamy texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals.
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta lies in the harmony of its ingredients. Ricotta gives a creamy, slightly sweet backdrop that’s lighter than heavy cream. Parmesan adds saltiness and umami, while lemon keeps everything bright and balanced. The chicken brings satisfying protein, and the pasta ties it all together into a dish that is both filling and comforting. Every element has its role, creating a meal that feels special without being overly complicated.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the lemony notes beautifully. For a heartier spread, serve with roasted vegetables and warm crusty bread to soak up every drop of sauce.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is all about balance: tender chicken, comforting pasta, and a rich but not overpowering sauce.
By choosing quality ricotta, layering flavors with aromatics and herbs, and paying attention to cooking details, you can transform a simple pasta dinner into a dish that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Serve it hot, garnish generously with Parmesan and fresh herbs, and enjoy a plate of true comfort food that will satisfy both family and guests alike.
In just under an hour, you’ll have a meal that delivers restaurant-quality comfort at home. Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is more than just dinner – it’s a dish that invites you to slow down, gather at the table, and savor every bite.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken from scratch?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver for this recipe. Simply shred the meat and stir it in with the cooked pasta and ricotta sauce. This not only reduces cooking time but also adds a rich, savory depth of flavor. It’s a convenient option for busy weeknights while still keeping the dish creamy and comforting.
How do I make the ricotta sauce extra creamy and smooth?
To achieve the silkiest sauce, whisk the ricotta with a bit of warm pasta water or heavy cream before adding it to the pan. This prevents clumping and allows the cheese to coat every strand of pasta evenly. Adding a touch of Parmesan also enhances both creaminess and flavor, creating a velvety texture without being overly heavy.
Can I prepare this pasta ahead of time?
Yes, but with a small tip. This dish tastes best when enjoyed fresh, but you can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk, cream, or broth to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency. Avoid reheating multiple times, as that can dry out the pasta.
What are some good variations I can try?
This recipe is highly versatile. For extra nutrition, add spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes. Swap the pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties if preferred. You can also switch up the protein—try Italian sausage, shrimp, or even keep it vegetarian with mushrooms. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley at the end brightens the dish beautifully.
