There’s something incredibly satisfying about a bowl of creamy ricotta chicken pasta. The rich, velvety sauce made with ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and garlic, combined with tender chicken and whole wheat pasta, creates the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or preparing a special meal for family and friends, this easy ricotta pasta will quickly become one of your go-to recipes.
Not only is this dish creamy, flavorful, and satisfying, but it’s also packed with protein and nutrients. The addition of fresh spinach or kale gives it a healthy boost, while Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes enhance the flavors beautifully. Let’s dive into this delicious homemade pasta recipe that will leave you craving more!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
✔️ Rich & Creamy – Ricotta cheese and Parmesan create a velvety, indulgent sauce.
✔️ Easy to Make – A simple, 30-minute meal using pantry staples.
✔️ Protein-Packed – Chicken and ricotta add plenty of satisfying protein.
✔️ Nutritious – Whole wheat pasta and leafy greens boost fiber and nutrients.
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients for Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Below are the ingredients needed for this creamy chicken pasta with ricotta cheese.
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Whole wheat pasta (penne or tortiglioni) | 12 oz | Provides fiber and a hearty texture |
| Chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces) | 1 lb | Lean protein source |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing the chicken and garlic |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves | Adds deep flavor |
| Ricotta cheese | 1 cup | The creamy base of the sauce |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ½ cup | Enhances the cheesy, nutty flavor |
| Chicken broth (or pasta cooking water) | ½ cup | Helps create a silky sauce |
| Heavy cream (optional) | ½ cup | For extra creaminess |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | A perfect blend of dried herbs |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ¼ tsp | Adds a hint of spice |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste | Enhances the overall flavor |
| Fresh spinach or kale (optional) | 2 cups | Adds nutrients and color |
| Fresh basil or parsley | For garnish | Adds a fresh finish |
How to Make Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Ricotta Sauce
- In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp of olive oil and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Lower the heat and stir in ricotta cheese, Parmesan, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using).
- Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet.
- Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
- Stir in spinach or kale and let it wilt for 1–2 minutes.
Step 5: Garnish & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve warm.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
This creamy ricotta pasta pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks:
✔️ With a Side Salad – Serve with a fresh Caesar or arugula salad.
✔️ With Garlic Bread – A crispy side of homemade garlic bread makes it extra satisfying.
✔️ With Roasted Vegetables – Try it with roasted zucchini, asparagus, or mushrooms.
✔️ With a Glass of White Wine – A crisp Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay pairs beautifully.
Tips for the Best Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta
Use High-Quality Ricotta
For a richer, creamier texture, choose whole-milk ricotta cheese instead of low-fat versions.
Reserve Pasta Water
Adding a little pasta water to the sauce helps create a silky, well-coated pasta dish.
Don’t Overcook the Chicken
Cook the chicken just until it’s golden and juicy to keep it tender.
Make It Spicier
For an extra kick, double the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Make It Lighter
Skip the heavy cream and use extra pasta water for a lighter version.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 Cup)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 42g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Fiber | 5g |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with penne, rigatoni, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta instead of whole wheat pasta to make it gluten-free.
4. Can I replace the ricotta with another cheese?
Yes! Try using mascarpone, cottage cheese, or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture.
5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute dairy-free ricotta and Parmesan, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
6. What other vegetables can I add?
You can add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
Now that you know how to make creamy ricotta chicken pasta, it’s time to bring this delicious dish to your table! Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a comforting homemade pasta, this recipe will never disappoint.