Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: Italian Comfort Meal (Print Version)
Creamy ricotta chicken pasta delivers rich Italian flavors. Tender chicken, smooth ricotta, and pasta create a satisfying, easy weeknight dinner.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 30 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Foundation
01 -
1 1/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
12 oz penne pasta
→ Aromatic & Savory Depth
03 -
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
04 -
1 medium yellow onion, diced
05 -
4 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
07 -
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
08 -
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
09 -
1/2 tsp dried oregano
10 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ The Creamy Embrace
11 -
1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese
12 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 -
1/4 cup heavy cream
→ Fresh Finish & Garnish
14 -
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped, plus more for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook 12 oz penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. While pasta cooks, dice 1 medium yellow onion, mince 4 cloves garlic, and chop 1/4 cup fresh basil. Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
02 -
Cut 1 1/4 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces. Season with salt and black pepper. Heat 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, add the diced 1 medium yellow onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the 4 cloves garlic and 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant. This builds the base for your Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Comforting Italian Meal.
04 -
Pour in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes and 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth. Add 1/2 tsp dried oregano, salt and black pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld for your Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Comforting Italian Meal.
05 -
In a medium bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups whole milk ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup heavy cream, and the chopped 1/4 cup fresh basil. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined.
06 -
Return the cooked chicken to the sauce. Add the drained 12 oz penne pasta and the ricotta mixture to the skillet. Stir gently to combine, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh basil, for a truly comforting Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta: A Comforting Italian Meal.
# Notes:
01 -
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a handful of fresh spinach to the sauce during the last few minutes of simmering. It wilts beautifully and adds a touch of green.
02 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain creaminess.
03 -
Feel free to swap penne for another short pasta like rigatoni or orecchiette. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also be used for a richer flavor and moister texture.
04 -
This comforting pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a vinaigrette and some crusty garlic bread for soaking up all the delicious sauce.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 937 kcal
Total Fat: 34 g
Total Carbohydrate: 82 g
Protein: 71 g