If you’re hunting for a perfectly cozy, restaurant-quality pasta dish you can whip up in no time at home, look no further than this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta. Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a dreamy ricotta sauce come together in one skillet for the ultimate weeknight comfort meal. Every bite melds delicate parmesan, fresh spinach, and that unmistakable lushness that only ricotta can bring. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply craving something special on a busy evening, this recipe guarantees comfort and flavor in every delicious forkful.

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this dish so irresistible is its simplicity: each ingredient truly shines. Every element has its moment in the spotlight, from the juicy chicken cubes to the creamy ricotta base and the subtle herbal notes of Italian seasoning. Here’s what you’ll need to make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta a staple in your kitchen:

12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli): Choose your favorite shape—each one holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully!
2 tablespoons olive oil: This is your secret to a glossy, aromatic base and golden chicken bites.
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced: Juicy, protein-packed pieces that carry the flavors of the sauce.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses every bite with herby, savory warmth.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for boosting all the flavors and seasoning the chicken just right.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of gentle heat and rounds out the seasoning.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and punchy, it transforms the sauce into something special.
1/2 cup chopped onion: Sautéed until sweet and soft, it deepens the dish’s savory profile.
1 cup ricotta cheese: The star that delivers a luscious, creamy sauce with minimal effort.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty depth for classic Italian flavor.
1/2 cup chicken broth: Smooths out the sauce while infusing savory undertones.
1/4 cup reserved pasta water: Rich in starch, it helps the sauce cling perfectly to every pasta piece.
1 cup baby spinach (optional): A pop of color and nutrition—you won’t even notice you’re eating your greens.
Fresh basil for garnish (optional): Just a sprinkle brings freshness and a beautiful finishing touch.

How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a bubbling boil, then toss in your pasta of choice. Cook according to package directions until it’s just shy of perfect al dente—remember, it’ll cook a bit more in the sauce. Before you drain, scoop out 1/4 cup of that liquid gold pasta water. Set it aside because this starchy elixir works wonders in the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta does its thing, heat up olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, followed by the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 6 to 8 minutes until each piece turns irresistibly golden and is cooked right through. The seasoning starts infusing the chicken with Italian-inspired aroma right from the start.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Onion

Toss in the minced garlic and chopped onion next. Let them work their aromatic magic, softening and becoming fragrant—about 2 to 3 minutes is all it takes. This is the foundation of flavor for your Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta, doing all the heavy lifting to make the sauce extra savory.

Step 4: Create the Ricotta Sauce

Time for the star ingredient! Lower the heat, then add the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, chicken broth, and that reserved pasta water. Stir until everything melts and blends into an ultra-creamy, dreamy sauce. It’ll look luxurious, silky, and just thick enough to coat every noodle later.

Step 5: Combine Everything and Add Spinach

Tip the cooked pasta right into the skillet, along with a handful of baby spinach if you’re adding greens. Toss everything gently so the pasta is coated and the spinach wilts beautifully, about 1 to 2 minutes. Let it all heat through, melding flavors to the perfect finish.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Spoon the creamy pasta into bowls while it’s piping hot. If you like, scatter torn basil leaves over the top for color and a hit of freshness. Now, dig in and enjoy the dish you just brought to life!

How to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh basil takes this dish from tasty to totally restaurant-worthy, offering a pop of color and a hit of fragrant brightness. You can also sprinkle on a bit more Parmesan or add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a gentle kick. A swirl of extra virgin olive oil at the finish will make every serving shine.

Side Dishes

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with crisp garlic bread, a simple green salad dressed with lemon, or roasted veggies such as asparagus or broccolini. These sides add textural contrast without stealing any thunder from your pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

Try piling the pasta into a big serving bowl and letting everyone scoop their own share family-style—it always feels more festive this way. For date night, twirl perfect mounds onto plates and finish with a basil leaf. Or spoon smaller portions into ramekins for an elegant dinner party starter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta to an airtight container and tuck it in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to three days while staying moist and flavorful. A quick stir before reheating helps the sauce regain its creamy consistency.

Freezing

While cream-based sauces can change texture after freezing, this dish surprises by holding up better than many! Cool it down completely, pack in freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to avoid separation.

Reheating

Gently reheat in a skillet over low-medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the sauce. Stir carefully until everything’s warmed through and creamy again. The microwave works too—just pause to stir and check for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?

Yes, absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is one of the best shortcuts for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta. Just shred or dice it and add it in after sautéing the onions and garlic. You’ll still get all the flavor, with even less prep time.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Definitely! Swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell pepper to create a vegetarian-friendly version. Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and proceed as usual — the result will be just as creamy and delicious.

What pasta shape works best with this sauce?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are ideal for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta. Their nooks and grooves catch the sauce in every bite, but feel free to use your personal favorite or whatever you have on hand.

Can I lighten up the sauce?

For a lighter take, use part-skim ricotta and reduce the Parmesan slightly. You can even bulk the dish up with extra spinach or add steamed broccoli for more veggies and a touch of freshness without losing the comforting vibe.

Is Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish holds up well for lunches or dinners throughout the week. Make a double batch, cool fully, and portion into individual containers for easy, satisfying meals that reheat beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is the kind of dish that creates memories—simple enough for a busy weeknight, special enough for guests, and always, always comforting. Give it a try, share it with someone you love, and see just how quickly it becomes a regular request at your table!

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 26 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in this creamy and flavorful dish of Ricotta Chicken Pasta that combines tender chicken, rich ricotta cheese, and fragrant herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta:

12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli)

Chicken:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Sauce:

3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chopped onion
1 cup ricotta cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup reserved pasta water
1 cup baby spinach (optional)
fresh basil for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water, reserving some pasta water.
Cook the Chicken: Sauté diced chicken with seasonings until cooked.
Make the Sauce: Sauté garlic and onion, then add cheeses, broth, and pasta water.
Combine: Toss cooked pasta and spinach in the sauce.
Serve: Garnish with basil and enjoy!