If you are craving a comforting yet simple dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe is exactly what you need. Blending tender chicken, silky ricotta, and fresh veggies all tossed with perfect pasta, it strikes the ideal balance between luscious creaminess and vibrant freshness. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish delivers hearty, satisfying flavors with minimal fuss—making it a sure favorite for busy weeknights or anytime you want a deliciously easy crowd-pleaser.

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but packed with flavors and textures that bring the dish to life. Each element plays an essential role, from the creamy ricotta adding richness to the bright cherry tomatoes and spinach giving color and freshness.

  • 8 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or penne): Choose your favorite shape to hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the chicken to a golden perfection and adding depth of flavor.
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Provides lean protein and a tender texture that soaks up the sauce.
  • Salt and pepper, to taste: The simple seasoning foundation that enhances every ingredient.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth and a subtle punch to the dish.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Bursting with sweetness and acidity for contrast.
  • 1 cup fresh spinach leaves: Offers a vibrant green color and mild earthiness.
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese: The star of the show delivering the creamy, luscious base of the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty sharpness that enriches the flavor profile.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a pleasant kick if you like a touch of heat.
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish to each bite.
  • 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved): This starchy liquid is pure magic for achieving that silky, clingy sauce consistency.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook it just until it’s al dente, around 8 to 10 minutes depending on the package. Be sure to reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining. This little bit of magic liquid will help the sauce cling perfectly to the noodles later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Let the chicken cook undisturbed for a few minutes on each side until golden and cooked through—this locks in moisture and flavor. Add the minced garlic at the last moment and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.

Step 3: Add the Veggies

Next, stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and the spinach wilts down beautifully. This is where the dish gains layers of freshness and vibrant color, brightening up the creamy base to come.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Ricotta Sauce

Lower the heat to medium, then dollop in the ricotta cheese. Stir it gently into the chicken and vegetables, allowing it to melt and envelop everything in creamy goodness. Gradually pour in the reserved pasta water, just enough to loosen the ricotta into a luscious sauce. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if you’re using them, stirring until the cheese melts completely into a silky blend. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Now, add the cooked pasta back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly, ensuring every strand is luxuriously coated with the creamy ricotta sauce. If the mixture looks a bit dry, splash in a little more of the reserved pasta water. This step is where the magic happens—quality ingredients coming together to create a dish that’s elegant yet effortless.

Step 6: Serve with a Beautiful Garnish

Turn off the heat and divide the creamy ricotta chicken pasta among bowls or plates. Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the top and scatter a little extra Parmesan if you fancy. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture experience.

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

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Fresh basil is an unbeatable choice for garnish here, delivering a pop of color and an aromatic lift that complements the creamy sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese adds a savory spark. If you like a bit of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes on top can add a gentle heat that takes each bite to the next level.

Side Dishes

This dish is so satisfying on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, consider serving it with a simple mixed green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also makes an excellent partner, perfect for sopping up every last bit of that luxurious ricotta sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion or when entertaining, serve the creamy ricotta chicken pasta in warmed shallow bowls to keep it hot longer. Garnish with edible flowers or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil for an elegant touch. You can even layer it in individual glass jars for a charming, rustic presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an effortless choice for next-day meals.

Freezing

While pasta dishes with creamy sauces don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze this recipe if necessary. Portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind the texture of ricotta might change slightly, so stir well after reheating.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently to avoid curdling the ricotta. Warm the pasta slowly in a skillet over low heat or microwave it in short bursts, stirring in a splash of water or broth to revive the creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne works wonderfully, feel free to use spaghetti, rigatoni, or even shells depending on your preference—just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily omit the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini to keep it hearty and delicious while still enjoying the creamy ricotta sauce.

What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

If you don’t have ricotta on hand, cottage cheese blended until smooth or a mix of cream cheese and sour cream can work as alternatives, though the flavor and texture will vary slightly.

Can I add more spice to the dish?

Definitely! Adding extra red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne, or even a bit of smoked paprika can amp up the heat and add complexity to the flavors.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free version. The sauce and chicken will taste just as amazing, making this creamy ricotta chicken pasta perfectly suitable for gluten-free diets.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting and impressive about this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe. It combines simplicity with incredible flavor and texture, making it a perfect weeknight go-to or a crowd-pleasing dish for guests. Once you try it, I bet it will become a treasured recipe in your rotation just like it is in mine. So, grab those ingredients and treat yourself to a dinner that feels lovingly homemade every single time.

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Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Easy Recipe for Dinner Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 78 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • 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 pieces, fresh spinach, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a luscious ricotta and Parmesan cheese sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish combines simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful meal perfect for weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta & Sauce

  • 8 ounces of pasta (fettuccine or penne)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup pasta cooking water (reserved)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Chicken & Vegetables

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)


Instructions

  1. Cook 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, then drain the pasta and set it aside in a large bowl.
  2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add Vegetables: Toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and fresh spinach leaves. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes begin to soften.
  4. Make Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Stir in the ricotta cheese until well combined. Gradually add reserved pasta cooking water to reach desired sauce consistency. Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if using, continuing to stir until the sauce is creamy and the cheese is melted. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
  5. Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat well with the creamy sauce. Add more reserved pasta water if the pasta appears too dry.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat and serve the creamy ricotta chicken pasta in bowls or plates. Garnish with freshly chopped basil and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Use fettuccine or penne pasta for best results.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust the creaminess of the sauce.
  • For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add freshly cracked black pepper.
  • Fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic finish but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

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