Description
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is the perfect combination of tender chicken, rich ricotta, and a smooth garlic-Parmesan sauce. It’s an easy, comforting dish that comes together in 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a pan and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden. Remove and let rest before slicing.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add heavy cream, ricotta, Parmesan, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth.
- Combine Everything: Toss the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce. Add pasta water as needed for the perfect consistency. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan. Enjoy warm!
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add more ricotta or a splash of reserved pasta water.
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or mushrooms for a variation.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired