Description
This creamy ricotta chicken pasta recipe combines tender, bite-sized chicken pieces with a luscious ricotta and Parmesan cheese sauce infused with garlic and herbs. Cooked in just 30 minutes, it makes a satisfying and comforting dinner perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The pasta is tossed in a rich, creamy sauce enhanced by chicken broth for extra flavor and garnished with fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or reserved pasta water
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for added richness)
Pasta and Garnish
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite type)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and dried oregano. Mix well until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Add the chicken broth or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Optionally, stir in the butter for extra richness.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it evenly with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and gently mix everything together until the pasta is well coated and heated through.
- Serve and Garnish: Divide the creamy ricotta chicken pasta among serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken broth with pasta water to keep the sauce naturally flavorful.
- Use any pasta shape you prefer; penne, fettuccine, or even rigatoni work well.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Adding butter at the end gives the sauce a silkier texture but is optional.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs for enhanced flavor and presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
