Looking for a cozy weeknight dinner that’s creamy, satisfying, and just a little bit fancy? This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is like a warm hug in a bowl—and it’s perfect for those evenings when you need a meal that’s both delicious and doable. Whether you’re wrangling kids, juggling Zoom meetings, or just trying to answer the eternal question of “what’s for dinner,” this dish has your back.
With tender bites of chicken, a lusciously creamy ricotta-based sauce, and pasta that soaks up every bit of flavor, this recipe turns simple ingredients into something magical. Best part? It all comes together in under 30 minutes.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
There’s something about ricotta that makes everything feel a little more luxurious—without being heavy or overly indulgent. And when you pair it with pasta and juicy chicken? Instant family favorite.
Here’s why this dish might just become a regular in your rotation:
- Quick and easy. Dinner’s ready in about half an hour. Yes, really.
- One-pan magic. Fewer dishes = happier you.
- Kid-approved. It’s creamy, not spicy, and the flavors are mild but comforting.
- Perfect for leftovers. (If there are any!)
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta keeps it simple—because who needs complicated after a long day?
- 500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 250g ricotta cheese (go for whole milk ricotta for best texture)
- 300g pasta (penne and fettuccine both work beautifully)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh herbs (about 10 leaves of basil or parsley, chopped)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Step One: Get That Pasta Going
Fill a large pot with water, salt it generously (think: like the sea!), and bring it to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook it al dente—usually around 8-10 minutes, but check the package.
Before draining, scoop out about ½ cup of that liquid gold (aka pasta water). You’ll need this to bring the sauce together later. Drain the pasta and toss it back into the pot to keep warm.
Step Two: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is doing its thing, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, toss in your chicken pieces, seasoning them with salt and pepper.
Cook for 5–7 minutes until they’re golden and fully cooked (internal temp should hit 165°F). Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and loosely cover it with foil to keep it warm.
Step Three: Make the Creamy Ricotta Sauce
In the same skillet (no need to wash away all that flavor!), sauté your garlic for 30 seconds—just until fragrant. Be careful, though—burnt garlic waits for no one.
Add the ricotta and a splash of that reserved pasta water, whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Add more pasta water as needed to get your desired consistency.
Season with a little Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes if you’re feeling bold. Then, return the cooked chicken to the skillet, giving it 2–3 minutes to warm through.
Now for the grand finale: Add your drained pasta to the sauce and gently toss until everything is silky, creamy, and completely coated.
Sprinkle in those fresh herbs right before serving for a pop of brightness.
Aneta’s Kitchen Tip
If your sauce seems too thick—don’t panic!—just add a bit more pasta water to loosen it up. And if you accidentally added too much? A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese helps thicken it right back up (plus, cheese is always a good idea, right?).
Also, if you’re using penne, give it a few extra stirs to make sure all that lovely sauce gets inside the little pasta tubes. Every bite counts!
A Little Backstory…
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta was born out of one of those “what can I make with what’s in the fridge?” moments. I had leftover ricotta from a lasagna, a few chicken breasts, and some pasta I always keep on hand (because, carbs = life). One quick dinner later, my kids were asking for seconds and my husband thought I’d made something gourmet.
Now, it’s on repeat—especially on chilly evenings when we’re craving comfort without the food coma.
FAQs About Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking it fresh?
Absolutely! Just shred it and add it when you would return the cooked chicken to the sauce. It’s a fantastic shortcut for busy weeknights.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! Just swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free version. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use low-fat ricotta?
You can, but whole milk ricotta gives you that creaminess we’re aiming for. If you go low-fat, maybe add a touch of milk or a sprinkle of Parmesan for richness.
Conclusion
This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is the kind of meal that turns a regular Tuesday into something special—no fancy ingredients, no stress, just real, comforting flavor that wraps you up like your favorite cozy blanket. It’s creamy without being heavy, simple yet satisfying, and versatile enough to suit whatever life throws your way (including picky eaters and last-minute dinner guests).
With minimal prep and pantry-friendly ingredients, this dish fits right into your weeknight dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, feeding a hungry family after soccer practice, or just treating yourself to a quiet evening with a glass of wine and your favorite show—this pasta delivers comfort, flavor, and just the right touch of magic.
And let’s be honest: when dinner’s this good and this easy, it might just make you feel like a kitchen rockstar (even if your hair’s in a messy bun and you’re wearing mismatched socks—no judgment here!).
So go ahead, save this recipe, make it yours, and don’t forget to sprinkle in a little extra love. Because sometimes, a creamy bowl of pasta is exactly what your day needs
Keep the Comfort Going: More Creamy Chicken Recipes You’ll Love
If this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta has you swooning for more cozy, creamy meals, you’re in luck. Chicken Magic Recipes is full of similar feel-good favorites that will keep your dinner game strong all week long. Whether you’re into quick skillet meals or decadent bakes, here are a few more dishes to explore next. Each one pairs perfectly with a side of relaxation (and maybe a second helping).
- Craving more rich and savory comfort? Don’t miss this dreamy Creamy Parmesan Orzo with Chicken and Asparagus—it’s just as simple and comforting, with a fresh veggie twist.
- If you loved the creamy texture of this dish, try our ultra-luxe Creamy Tuscan Chicken for a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
- For a pasta variation packed with bold flavor, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Pasta brings garlic lovers to their happy place in under 30 minutes.
- And for a fun, family-friendly twist on comfort food, you’ll want to whip up this hearty Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole—it’s cheesy, satisfying, and weeknight approved.
Bookmark your favorites, mix them into your meal plan, and let your kitchen keep working its magic!
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Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a quick, comforting dish made with tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety ricotta cheese sauce. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent without being heavy—ready in under 30 minutes and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
500g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
250g whole milk ricotta cheese
300g pasta (penne or fettuccine)
½ cup reserved pasta water
Optional: Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes
10 fresh basil or parsley leaves, chopped
Instructions
Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining and set pasta aside.
Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add ricotta cheese and gradually whisk in reserved pasta water until smooth. Add optional seasonings if desired.
Combine: Return cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring to warm through. Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated.
Finish and Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.
Notes
Whole milk ricotta provides the creamiest texture.
If sauce thickens too much, add extra pasta water or a splash of milk.
Parmesan can be sprinkled on top for extra richness.
Great for leftovers—store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Main course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American , Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 290 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 54 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 105 mg