Why Make This Recipe
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together tender chicken and creamy sauce over pasta. It’s simple to make, perfect for weeknight dinners, and sure to please the whole family. Plus, it combines healthy ingredients like chicken and ricotta, making it a satisfying meal without feeling heavy.
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:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- 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.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Lower the heat and stir in ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Sprinkle in Italian herbs and chili flakes (if using).
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta can be served right from the skillet for a rustic presentation. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a fresh taste. It pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
To store leftover Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in a microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Tips to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Italian herbs before cooking.
- Add seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and taste.
- Use whole grain pasta for a healthier option.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe. Try using different types of pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti. If you prefer, swap chicken for shrimp or use mushrooms for a vegetarian dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat ricotta cheese?
Yes, low-fat ricotta cheese can be used if you want to reduce calories, but it may alter the creaminess slightly.
2. Is this dish freezable?
Yes, you can freeze Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta. Just remember that the texture might change when reheating.
3. What can I serve with this pasta?
This dish goes well with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta ingredients
- 300 g penne pasta
Chicken and sauce ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, 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)
- to taste Salt and pepper
- to garnish Fresh parsley, chopped
Method
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- 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.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
Cooking
- Lower the heat and stir in ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce. Sprinkle in Italian herbs and chili flakes (if using).
- Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until well combined.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.