Description
This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is the ultimate comfort food! Tender chicken breast is paired with a velvety ricotta-based sauce that’s rich, savory, and perfect for coating your favorite pasta. This easy-to-make dish is a weeknight favorite, with a perfect balance of creaminess and flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
-
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
-
8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 cup ricotta cheese
-
1/2 cup heavy cream
-
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
-
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
-
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
-
1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried basil)
-
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
-
Zest of 1 lemon (optional, for a fresh twist)
Instructions
-
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
-
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook them in the skillet for 5-7 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from the skillet, cover with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
-
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
-
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir well to combine, creating a creamy sauce.
-
If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
-
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy ricotta sauce.
-
Stir in the basil and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. If you’re using crushed red pepper flakes, add them now.
-
Plate the pasta and top with sliced chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For added flavor, you can sauté some spinach or mushrooms in the skillet before adding the garlic and ricotta.
This dish pairs perfectly with a simple green salad and garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian