Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a wholesome and delicious meal that combines the heartiness of whole wheat pasta with the creamy richness of ricotta and Parmesan cheese. This dish features tender bite-sized pieces of chicken, perfectly cooked in a garlic-infused ricotta sauce. The addition of spinach or kale offers a healthy, vibrant touch, while the optional heavy cream takes the sauce to a luxurious level of creaminess. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a quick weeknight meal, this pasta dish will become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, thanks to the whole wheat pasta and fresh greens. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy nights when you still want something special. With a balance of creamy and savory flavors, topped with fresh herbs, this creamy ricotta chicken pasta will be a meal everyone loves.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Light

The ricotta cheese creates a creamy, yet light sauce that coats the pasta without feeling too heavy, making it a comforting meal without being overly rich.

2. Quick and Easy to Make

This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen.

3. Packed with Flavor

The combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning brings a savory depth to the dish, while the garlic and red pepper flakes (optional) add an aromatic punch.

4. Nutritious Ingredients

Whole wheat pasta and the option to add fresh spinach or kale make this dish more nutritious without sacrificing flavor, providing extra fiber and vitamins.

5. Customizable and Versatile

You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, whether you prefer more veggies, a spicier kick, or a different type of pasta.

Ingredients

Whole wheat pasta (penne or Tortiglioni)
Chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Olive oil
Garlic (minced)
Ricotta cheese
Grated Parmesan cheese
Chicken broth or pasta cooking water
Heavy cream (optional)
Italian seasoning
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper
Fresh spinach or kale (optional)
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and substitute it with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
Creamier Sauce: If you love a richer sauce, add more heavy cream or use full-fat ricotta cheese for an indulgent treat.
Spicy Version: Add extra red pepper flakes or chopped chili peppers to bring a spicy kick to the dish.
Greens: If you’re not a fan of spinach or kale, feel free to swap them out with arugula or other leafy greens of your choice.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Lower the heat to medium-low and add the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, and heavy cream (if using). Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using), then adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Add Greens (Optional)

Stir in the fresh spinach or kale, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the creamy ricotta chicken pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley. For extra flavor, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

If the sauce thickens too much, adding pasta water gradually will help loosen it to the perfect consistency.
Use a non-stick skillet to make the chicken easier to cook and clean up afterward.
For an even richer sauce, try substituting some of the chicken broth with heavy cream or adding more Parmesan for extra flavor.
If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes or add freshly chopped chili peppers.
For a smoother sauce, make sure to stir the ricotta mixture well before combining it with the pasta to avoid clumps.

How to Serve

This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Serve it alongside some warm garlic bread or a light vinaigrette salad to balance the richness of the creamy pasta. A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, would complement the flavors beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy ricotta chicken pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to restore the creaminess and prevent the sauce from becoming too thick.

Freezing

This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the ricotta sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, allow the pasta to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of water, pasta cooking water, or broth to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave it in intervals, stirring between each session.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pasta instead of whole wheat pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. When ready to serve, simply reheat and combine with the cooked pasta.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the chicken with mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian option.

4. What can I use if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

You can use cream cheese, mascarpone, or even a blend of cottage cheese and cream for a similar creamy texture.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, use dairy-free ricotta and Parmesan alternatives, and opt for coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

7. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Frozen spinach works well, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the sauce to prevent excess moisture.

8. Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add more red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers to increase the heat level to your liking.

9. How do I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, cook it a bit longer on low heat, or add extra Parmesan cheese for thickness.

10. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and will add extra flavor and moisture to the dish.

Conclusion

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is an easy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, cheesy sauce and tender chicken, it offers a delicious balance of flavors. You can easily adjust it to suit your preferences by adding more veggies, changing the type of pasta, or even increasing the spiciness. This dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen, offering a comforting, flavorful meal that the whole family will love. Whether served with fresh greens or extra Parmesan on top, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both nutritious and indulgent.