Description
Indulge in a rich and comforting Creamy Chicken Ricotta Pasta that’s perfect for any occasion. This delightful dish combines tender chicken with a creamy ricotta sauce, fresh greens, and whole wheat pasta, all ready in just 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or intimate family dinners, this recipe is both nutritious and satisfying. Customize it by adding your favorite veggies like spinach or kale to boost the flavor and health benefits. With its quick preparation and delicious taste, this creamy pasta dish is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz whole wheat pasta (penne or tortiglioni)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté seasoned chicken until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, and optional heavy cream. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss with the drained pasta until well coated. Add spinach or kale to wilt slightly.
- Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water as needed and serve hot with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 85mg