Name: Easy Ricotta Cheese Pasta with Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless; 1 cup ricotta cheese – The star of the show! Use high-quality whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest sauce.; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan adds depth and ensures the sauce is lump-free.; 4 strips of bacon – Cooked until crispy. Adds a smoky flavor and crunchy texture.; 1 pound rotini pasta (or your favorite shape – Rotini is great for holding the sauce, but penne or fusilli also work well.); 2 cups spinach (optional – A healthy add-in that blends perfectly with the creamy sauce.); 2 tablespoons olive oil – For cooking the chicken and ensuring the sauce absorbs all the flavors from the pan.; 4 garlic cloves (crushed – For that aromatic punch.); 2 tablespoons lemon juice and 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Adds brightness and cuts through the richness.; 2 cups reserved pasta water – Helps adjust the sauce to your preferred consistency.; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika and 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – Elevates the chicken’s flavor.; Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning every layer.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

I just made this easy ricotta cheese pasta with chicken, and I can’t wait to share the recipe! This dish is creamy, bursting with flavor, and super easy to whip up. The tender chicken, blended with the creamy ricotta and al dente pasta, creates the perfect comfort meal.

The best part? It all comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for weeknight dinners. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this delightful recipe! Each ingredient plays a crucial role, so don’t skimp on the details.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast – The protein base. Sear it for a golden crust. You can swap this for chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier texture.
1 cup ricotta cheese – The star of the show! Use high-quality whole-milk ricotta for the creamiest sauce.
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan adds depth and ensures the sauce is lump-free.
4 strips of bacon – Cooked until crispy. Adds a smoky flavor and crunchy texture.
1 pound rotini pasta (or your favorite shape) – Rotini is great for holding the sauce, but penne or fusilli also work well.
2 cups spinach (optional) – A healthy add-in that blends perfectly with the creamy sauce.
2 tablespoons olive oil – For cooking the chicken and ensuring the sauce absorbs all the flavors from the pan.
4 garlic cloves (crushed) – For that aromatic punch.
2 tablespoons lemon juice and 1 teaspoon lemon zest – Adds brightness and cuts through the richness.
2 cups reserved pasta water – Helps adjust the sauce to your preferred consistency.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika and 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – Elevates the chicken’s flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning every layer.

Note: This recipe serves 4-5 people generously.

Variations

Want to make this dish your own? Here are some ideas for customizing the recipe:

Dairy-free: Swap ricotta for a plant-based alternative and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan.
Gluten-free: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta.
Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for some heat.
Extra veggies: Toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrients.
Herbal boost: Use fresh basil, oregano, or parsley as garnish for a flavor-packed finish.

You can also enjoy similar recipes like Easy Smothered Chicken Recipe for more comforting chicken dishes.

Cooking Time

Here’s a quick breakdown of the total time commitment for this recipe:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

These kitchen tools will make cooking a breeze:

Large pot for boiling pasta.
Frying pan to cook the chicken and garlic.
Wooden spoon to stir the sauce and prevent sticking.
Bowl for whisking the ricotta mixture.
Box grater for fresh parmesan.

How to Make Easy Ricotta Cheese Pasta with Chicken?

Follow these simple steps for a foolproof, delicious dish!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until it’s just shy of al dente. Reserve 2 cups of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Ricotta Sauce

While the pasta cooks, whisk together ricotta cheese, parmesan, lemon juice, lemon zest, and 1 cup of reserved pasta water in a bowl. Blend until smooth, adding more water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic and Build the Sauce

Using the same pan you cooked the chicken in, sauté crushed garlic in the leftover oil. Pour in the ricotta mixture and stir continuously. Scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate all those delicious chicken drippings. Cook on low until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta, spinach (if using), and bacon bits to the pan. Stir until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce. Slice the chicken and either mix it in or serve it on top.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with extra parmesan, fresh herbs, and a crack of black pepper. Serve immediately for best results.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Here are a few tips to elevate your cooking experience:

Choose Quality Ingredients: Freshly grated parmesan and high-quality ricotta make a huge difference.
Don’t Skimp on Pasta Water: It’s the magic ingredient for adjusting the sauce.
Taste as You Go: Check the seasoning at every step for a balanced dish.
Use a Non-Stick Pan: This ensures the garlic and sauce don’t stick or burn.

If you love skillet recipes, you might enjoy this Skillet Chicken Thighs with Broccoli Cheddar Orzo Recipe for another quick and flavorful option.

How to Serve Easy Ricotta Cheese Pasta with Chicken?

Presentation can make any dish even more appealing. Here’s how to serve this pasta:

Plating: Serve the pasta in shallow bowls for a cozy, rustic feel.
Garnishing: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, grated parmesan, and a drizzle of olive oil for that restaurant-quality look.
With Sides: Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional content:

Calories: Approximately 520 per serving
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 62g
Fat: 16g

Make Ahead and Storage

Want to enjoy leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat this pasta:

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: While the dish can be frozen, the sauce might separate. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Add a splash of water or milk while reheating in a pan to reclaim its creamy texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This recipe promises to become a household favorite. Here’s why:

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile: Customizable with various ingredients and toppings.
Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Balanced Flavors: A harmonious blend of creamy, tangy, and savory notes.
Minimal Cleanup: Uses just a handful of tools.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

Even the simplest recipes can go awry. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Skipping Pasta Water: Without it, your sauce might end up too thick.
Overcooking Pasta: Always aim for al dente to avoid mushy pasta.
Low-Quality Ricotta: Look for smooth, creamy ricotta—not the grainy kind in tubs.
Overcrowding the Pan: This prevents the chicken and garlic from browning properly.

With these tips and steps, you’ll have an incredible dish that’s both easy to make and undeniably delicious. Happy cooking! For more inspiration, check out these Chicken Recipes that are equally versatile and delicious.

Ash Tyrrell