Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is the ultimate fusion of comfort and sophistication, bringing together tender chicken, creamy cheese, and vibrant veggies in one glorious dish. From the very first bite, you’ll taste the rich, velvety texture of ricotta mingling with a splash of heavy cream, creating a sauce so luxurious that it feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time and about 25 minutes to cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekend dinners. With simple ingredients that you might already have on hand—penne pasta, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, and a sprinkle of Parmesan—this dish embraces the essence of comfort food without sacrificing freshness or flavor.
As a home cook, I’ve come to rely on recipes that deliver maximum satisfaction with minimal fuss, and this creamy ricotta chicken pasta checks all the boxes. Whether you’re a beginner dipping your toes into the world of homemade sauces or a seasoned foodie looking for a new go-to dinner, you’ll love how easily everything comes together. The succulence of bite-sized chicken cubes, seasoned and seared to golden perfection, pairs beautifully with the mild, slightly sweet ricotta. Bright pops of tomato and a handful of wilted spinach add color, nutrition, and a hint of freshness, balancing the indulgent creaminess. Trust me, once you taste this dish, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation—and perhaps even become the star of your next dinner party.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY RICOTTA CHICKEN PASTA
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at the star players that make this dish so irresistible. Each ingredient contributes its own unique character, structure, and aroma, coming together to create a harmonious, crowd-pleasing meal.
- Penne Pasta
A sturdy pasta shape that holds creamy sauce in its ridges and tubes, delivering flavor in every bite. You can swap in fusilli, rigatoni, or your favorite noodle for a fun twist.
- Olive Oil
The foundation for sautéing chicken and garlic; it adds a fruity richness and helps achieve a golden sear without sticking.
- Chicken Breast
Cut into even, bite-sized cubes to ensure quick, uniform cooking. It provides lean protein and absorbs the flavors of garlic, herbs, and sauce beautifully.
- Garlic
Freshly minced for a pungent, savory kick that infuses the oil and chicken. Its aroma elevates the entire dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes
Optional, but highly recommended for a subtle heat that contrasts with the creamy ricotta and sweet tomatoes.
- Ricotta Cheese
The star of the creamy sauce, lending a soft, slightly tangy texture that’s lighter than most heavy sauces but still deeply satisfying.
- Heavy Cream
Adds silkiness and richness, helping the ricotta melt into a flawlessly smooth, luscious sauce.
- Chicken Broth
Used to thin out the sauce just enough and add another layer of savory, umami-packed depth.
- Parmesan Cheese
Finely grated for sharp, nutty notes. It melds into the sauce and underscores the flavor profile with a classic Italian touch.
- Cherry Tomatoes
Halved for bursts of sweetness and acidity; they brighten the palate and add vibrant pops of color.
- Spinach Leaves
Roughly chopped to wilt quickly and introduce a fresh, earthy green element that complements the creaminess.
- Salt and Black Pepper
Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors, making each component shine.
- Fresh Basil
Chopped and sprinkled on top for its sweet, aromatic finish. It’s optional but transforms the dish into something truly special.
- Lemon Zest
A final flourish that offers a bright, citrusy lift, cutting through the richness for a perfectly balanced bite.
HOW TO MAKE CREAMY RICOTTA CHICKEN PASTA
Bringing this recipe together requires simple techniques that transform everyday ingredients into an indulgent, restaurant-quality meal. These step-by-step instructions will guide you through boiling, sautéing, and simmering until you reach creamy perfection.
1. Boil a large pot of salty water, then cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente—firm to the bite but fully cooked. Before draining, scoop out and reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the noodles and set aside.
2. In a spacious skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil until it gently shimmers. Add the seasoned chicken cubes in a single layer, letting them cook undisturbed for a couple of minutes before stirring. Continue to sear and stir for 5–7 minutes, until each piece is golden brown on the outside and cooked through.
3. Add the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until you smell that signature garlicky fragrance—take care to avoid letting it brown too deeply or burn.
4. Turn the heat down to medium and spoon in the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir vigorously until the cheeses meld with the liquid, forming a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the back of a spoon.
5. Toss in the cooked pasta, grated Parmesan, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped spinach. Gently combine everything so the spinach wilts just enough and the sauce blankets every piece of noodle. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your preferred consistency.
6. Taste a forkful and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed.
7. Remove the skillet from heat. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil and bright lemon zest for contrast, if desired.
8. Serve immediately while everything is piping hot. Gather around the table and dig in—your creamy ricotta chicken pasta is ready to delight every palate!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY RICOTTA CHICKEN PASTA
When it comes to plating and pairing, a few thoughtful touches can elevate this creamy ricotta chicken pasta from a weeknight staple to an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re sharing with family or impressing guests, these ideas will help you present and enjoy your creation in style.
- Garlic-Buttered Bread
Toast slices of crusty bread under the broiler after brushing them with olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt. Serve on the side to soak up every last drop of creamy sauce.
- Simple Green Salad
Toss mixed baby greens with a light lemon-vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and a touch of honey. The tangy crunch complements the rich pasta beautifully.
- Fresh Herb Garnish
Sprinkle extra chopped basil or flat-leaf parsley just before serving for a burst of color and a fragrant finish that enhances the dish’s garden-fresh notes.
- Crisp White Wine
Pair with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. The wine’s bright acidity cuts through the creaminess, creating a harmonious dining experience.
HOW TO STORE CREAMY RICOTTA CHICKEN PASTA
Leftovers can be just as delicious as the freshly cooked dish if stored properly. By following these tips, you’ll maintain the pasta’s creamy texture, vibrant flavors, and overall freshness—perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
- Airtight Container in the Refrigerator
Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into a sealed, airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce.
- Freezer-Safe Portions
For longer storage, portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out extra air before sealing. Label with the date and freeze for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Gentle Reheating Technique
Warm individual servings in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a tablespoon of cream or broth to prevent the sauce from tightening and give it that freshly made silkiness.
- Avoid Overheating
High heat can cause the ricotta sauce to break or separate. Always reheat slowly and stir continuously to keep the texture smooth and cohesive.
CONCLUSION
From its first creamy swirl to the last bite of tender chicken and sweet cherry tomato, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta offers the perfect blend of comfort food and sophisticated flavor. With just over half an hour from prep to plate, it’s an ideal choice for both busy weeknights and special occasions. The combination of velvety ricotta, a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, bright pops of fresh basil, and a squeeze of lemon zest creates a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Don’t forget that this recipe is beginner-friendly, with straightforward steps and pantry staples that make cooking feel achievable and fun.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your binder or digital recipe folder for easy reference. You can save it for those days when you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing dinner idea. Below, you’ll also find a handy FAQ section to answer any lingering questions—whether you want to adapt ingredients, swap in vegetarian options, or troubleshoot texture issues. I’d love to hear how this creamy ricotta chicken pasta turns out in your kitchen: leave a comment, share your tweaks, or ask any questions you have. Your feedback helps me refine recipes and inspires other home cooks to gather around the table and savor life’s simple, delicious moments. Enjoy every bubbly, cheese-laden, flavor-packed forkful!
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Description
This creamy ricotta chicken pasta combines succulent chicken, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and fresh spinach tossed in a rich, creamy sauce that delights every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta. Set aside.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
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Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
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Reduce heat to medium and stir in the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Mix until the ingredients are combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Add the cooked pasta, Parmesan cheese, cherry tomatoes, and spinach into the skillet. Toss everything gently to combine and allow the spinach to wilt. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
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Remove from heat and garnish with chopped basil and lemon zest, if using.
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Serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta!
Note
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts.
- This dish pairs well with a light green salad or garlic bread.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or cream if needed.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes depending on your preference, such as fusilli or rigatoni.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with mushrooms or zucchini.
