This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta features tender chicken and al dente pasta tossed in a rich, garlic-infused ricotta sauce. It’s quick, comforting, and ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.
2 chicken breasts, cubed
8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or similar)
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup ricotta cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
½–¾ cup reserved pasta water
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tsp Italian seasoning or fresh herbs
Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon zest, parsley
Cook pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water and drain.
Sear seasoned chicken in olive oil until cooked through. Set aside.
In same pan, sauté garlic briefly in oil.
Lower heat and add ricotta, parmesan, and reserved pasta water. Stir until creamy.
Return chicken and pasta to the pan. Toss everything together gently.
Season to taste and serve with parsley and extra cheese.
Keep heat low when adding ricotta to prevent curdling
Add spinach or lemon for brightness
Great with gluten-free or chickpea pasta
Store in fridge for 3 days; reheat with a splash of water or milk