If you’re looking for a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that’s easy to whip up, this easy Ricotta Cheese Pasta with Chicken is a must-try! I made this recipe last week, and it quickly became one of my favorites.
The ricotta adds such a smooth, delicious texture to the sauce, while the chicken and crispy bacon bring satisfying protein. Plus, with some fresh herbs and parmesan, every bite is a burst of savory goodness. Trust me, you’ll want to make this a regular part of your dinner rotation!
For a twist, try this parmesan-crusted chicken sheet pan dinner for another delicious option.
Ingredients for Ricotta Cheese Pasta with Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful dish, along with why each ingredient is important:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast (1 pound)
Tender and lean, this is the perfect protein base for the dish. You can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor. - Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, freshly grated)
Freshly grated parmesan melts better and adds a nutty, savory touch to your sauce. Avoid pre-grated cheese as it may make the sauce clumpy. - Part-skim ricotta cheese (1 cup)
The star of the dish! Ricotta makes the sauce creamy and light without adding extra fat. - Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients. - Smoked paprika (1 tsp)
Adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color to the chicken. - Italian seasoning (2 tsp)
A blend of herbs like oregano and thyme enhances the overall flavor of the dish. - Garlic cloves (4, crushed)
Infuses the sauce with a fragrant, savory kick. - Olive oil (1-2 tbsp)
Perfect for cooking the chicken and adding a hint of richness. - Rotini pasta (1 pound)
Rotini holds the sauce beautifully, but you can use other shapes like penne or farfalle. - Reserved pasta water (2 cups)
Acts as the base for the sauce, giving it a smooth and slightly starchy texture. - Lemon juice (2 tbsp) & lemon zest (1 tbsp)
Adds a bright, tangy element that balances the creaminess of the ricotta. - Bacon (4 strips, chopped)
Crispy bacon adds crunch and a salty, savory dimension to the dish. - Spinach (2 cups, optional)
For added nutrients and color, toss in some spinach at the end. - Fresh parsley, basil, or oregano (for garnish, optional)
Adds a pop of freshness and makes the dish look even more appetizing.
Note: This recipe serves 5. Adjust ingredients as necessary for more or fewer servings.
Best Variations to Try
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these simple substitutions or additions:
- Make it dairy-free by swapping ricotta and parmesan for plant-based alternatives.
- Prefer a spicier kick? Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Swap rotini for gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-friendly.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts if you prefer a richer, juicier protein.
- Toss in extra veggies like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for more nutrition.
For a different take on chicken, you might enjoy these baked garlic parmesan boneless wings as a side or appetizer.
Cooking Time
Here’s how much time you’ll need to prepare this mouthwatering dish:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You Need
Make sure to have the following tools ready before you begin:
- Large skillet – To cook the chicken and bacon.
- Pot – For boiling your pasta.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the sauce and ensuring a smooth texture.
- Mixing bowl – To whisk together the ricotta sauce.
- Tongs – For handling the chicken while it cooks.
How to Make Easy Ricotta Cheese Pasta with Chicken
This ricotta chicken pasta recipe is easy to follow and will have you enjoying a restaurant-quality meal in no time.
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by chopping the bacon into small pieces and cooking it in a skillet until crispy. Remove and set aside. Next, season your chicken breasts with paprika, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Pound the chicken to an even thickness to ensure it cooks evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Using the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until fully cooked, about 4-5 minutes per side. The chicken should have a golden-brown crust. Once done, remove it from the pan and let it rest before slicing.
Step 3: Boil the Pasta
Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta until just shy of al dente. Reserve 2 cups of pasta water before draining the pasta. This water is key to creating a silky sauce.
Step 4: Make the Ricotta Sauce
Whisk together 1 cup of ricotta, 1 cup of the reserved pasta water, fresh parmesan, lemon juice, zest, and a pinch of black pepper in a bowl. This forms the base of your creamy sauce.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Lower the heat on the skillet and add crushed garlic. Cook until fragrant, then pour in the ricotta mixture. Stir continuously to deglaze the pan and bring the sauce to a smooth consistency. Add the pasta, cooked chicken (sliced), and bacon. Mix everything together and adjust with additional pasta water if needed.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Finish by garnishing with fresh herbs and more parmesan. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy the explosion of flavors!
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
From my own experience, here are a few tricks to make your ricotta chicken pasta even better:
- Use slightly undercooked pasta since it’ll finish cooking in the sauce.
- Blend the ricotta sauce for a smoother consistency if you prefer.
- Add spinach at the end so it wilts slightly without becoming overcooked.
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning towards the end.
How to Serve Easy Ricotta Cheese Pasta with Chicken
This pasta dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with these serving ideas:
- Plate the pasta in shallow bowls for an elegant presentation.
- Sprinkle extra parmesan and herbs on top for visual appeal.
- Pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread on the side.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional value per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 15g
How to Store Properly?
Here’s how to preserve leftovers (if any):
- Refrigerating: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish doesn’t freeze well due to the ricotta. Enjoy it fresh!
- Reheating: Use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy, dreamy pasta dish has something for everyone!
- It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The creamy sauce is rich without being heavy, thanks to ricotta cheese.
- You can easily customize it with different proteins, veggies, and herbs.
- It’s a comforting yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Packed with protein, it’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
You can also enjoy similar dinner recipes for more inspiration.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep ingredients, like cooking the chicken and bacon, ahead of time to save effort.
What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Rotini or penne are great choices, as they hold the sauce well.
Can I use low-fat ricotta?
Yes, but keep in mind that low-fat ricotta may result in a less creamy sauce.
How can I add a spicy kick?
Simply sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce for some heat!