This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a quick and easy dinner packed with tender chicken, a rich ricotta-based sauce, and parmesan. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect comfort meal for busy weeknights. Creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious—save this recipe and try it tonight! 🍝✨
Calories: 450kcal
Ingredients
- For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pasta penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved (optional)
- 1 ½ cups cooked chicken sliced or shredded
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Ricotta Sauce:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese whole milk for best creaminess
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water adjust as needed
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then set the pasta aside.
- Sauté the Garlic & Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. If using cherry tomatoes, toss them in now and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened. Add the cooked chicken, season with salt and pepper, and stir well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
- Make the Ricotta Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the ricotta cheese, parmesan, red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Slowly add some of the reserved pasta water, stirring until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Combine Everything: Lower the heat to medium-low and add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the chicken. Pour in the ricotta sauce and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Serve & Enjoy! Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil and extra parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, dreamy deliciousness!
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for the creamiest texture.
- Don’t skip the reserved pasta water—it helps create a smooth sauce.
- Adjust seasoning to taste—more lemon for brightness, more parmesan for richness.
- Make it vegetarian by swapping chicken for mushrooms or white beans.
- For extra creaminess, stir in a spoonful of heavy cream or a bit of butter.