Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Your New Favorite: Quick and Delicious Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Prep Time: 15-20 Minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 Minutes
  • Total Time: 30-40 Minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 Servings 1x
  • Category: Easy dinners

Description

How to make quick and delicious creamy ricotta chicken pasta with tender chicken, a rich ricotta sauce, and fresh herbs that’s ready in 30 minutes.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Base/Main Components:
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 12 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni)
  • 15 ounces whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • Flavor Builders:
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large shallot, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • Seasonings/Spices:
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Finishing/Toppings:
  • ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil salted water, then cook your chosen pasta al dente according to package directions. While pasta cooks, pat dry and cube the chicken, then mince the garlic and shallot. This preps you for the Quick Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta.
  2. Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken, then add shallots and garlic to sauté until fragrant.
  3. Make Sauce: Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the ricotta, Parmesan, heavy cream, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth and warm, ensuring the sauce is well combined and creamy.
  4. Combine Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the creamy ricotta sauce. Toss well to coat every strand, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a luscious consistency. This brings together the Quick Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta.
  5. Finish Dish: Gently fold in the fresh chopped parsley and basil. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired, adding more salt or pepper if needed. The fresh herbs really brighten this Quick Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta, making it irresistible and flavorful.
  6. Serve Warm: Serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil for garnish. Enjoy this comforting and satisfying Quick Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta for a delightful meal that’s ready in minutes.

Notes

Avoid excessive pasta water; a mere splash achieves a luscious, creamy sauce, preventing a watery mess.

Store leftover Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Easily make this dish gluten-free by substituting your preferred gluten-free pasta for traditional penne or rigatoni.

Serve warm with fresh basil and extra Parmesan; pair with a crisp green salad and crusty garlic bread for a complete meal.

Prep chicken and mince aromatics (garlic, shallot) a day ahead to streamline cooking on busy weeknights.

**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten