It’s a dish so enticing that even your grandmother’s secret spaghetti sauce might feel a tinge of jealousy. Imagine twirling perfectly cooked pasta around your fork, each bite coated in a silky, creamy ricotta sauce that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table like moths to a flame.
This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is not just food; it’s a memory waiting to happen. Picture a cozy family dinner where laughter dances in the air as you serve this delightful dish. It’s perfect for date nights or whenever you want to impress your friends without breaking a sweat in the kitchen. Trust me; your taste buds will be singing praises long after the last noodle has been devoured.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is quick and simple to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Its luscious flavor profile combines savory and subtly sweet notes from the ricotta cheese.
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing and ideal for gatherings.
- It’s versatile enough to adapt with seasonal veggies or different proteins.
I once made this creamy ricotta chicken pasta for my family on a random Tuesday night—little did I know it would become their new favorite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Opt for 3-4 breasts depending on how many hungry mouths you are feeding.
- Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor; trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
- Dried Oregano: This herb adds an aromatic touch—fresh is great too if you have it on hand
- Creamy Ricotta Cheese: Choose whole milk ricotta for its rich texture; it makes all the difference.
- Pasta of Choice: I prefer fettuccine or penne as they hold onto the sauce beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan elevates the dish with its nutty flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use good quality olive oil to sauté and enhance flavors throughout cooking.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings—don’t forget this dynamic duo!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients before starting. Chop garlic finely and cut chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 7-8 minutes.
Add Garlic and Oregano: Toss in minced garlic and oregano when chicken is nearly done. Cook until garlic becomes fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
Prepare the Sauce: Lower heat and stir in ricotta cheese until melted and combined smoothly with chicken juices. Add a splash of reserved pasta water for creaminess if needed.
Cook Your Pasta: In another pot, boil salted water and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes works well.
Toss Everything Together: Drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with sauce. Mix gently until every noodle is coated with that heavenly creaminess—grate fresh parmesan on top before serving!
Now sit back while everyone digs into this delicious dish! Don’t forget to take some pictures first because Instagram needs proof that you’re now an expert chef! Enjoy every comforting bite of this creamy ricotta chicken pasta that promises full bellies and happy hearts!
You Must Know
- Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings comfort and joy.
- Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners, ensuring every bite is an experience to savor.
- The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken first; while it’s cooking, boil the pasta and prepare the sauce simultaneously for seamless results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the ricotta for mascarpone or add fresh vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the creamiest sauce, ensure your ricotta is at room temperature before mixing.
- Avoid overcooking the pasta to maintain its texture.
- A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan elevates flavor and presentation beautifully.
Sharing this recipe always reminds me of our family gatherings where laughter mixed with delicious aromas filled the air. It became a staple that friends now request regularly!
FAQ
What can I use instead of ricotta in this recipe?
You can substitute mascarpone cheese or cream cheese for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and add more vegetables for a hearty meal.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
Make sure to stir it often while cooking and add olive oil to the water before boiling.
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken, silky ricotta, and al dente pasta, perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 cloves fresh garlic
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 cup creamy ricotta cheese
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Chop garlic finely and cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken pieces and cook until golden brown, about 7–8 minutes.
- Toss in minced garlic and oregano when the chicken is nearly done. Cook until fragrant.
- Lower heat, stir in ricotta cheese until melted. Adjust creaminess with reserved pasta water if needed.
- Boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes.
- Drain pasta, add to skillet with sauce, and mix gently until noodles are coated. Top with fresh Parmesan before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider swapping ricotta for mascarpone or adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. - To store leftovers, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
