There's nothing quite like a comforting bowl of Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta to turn an ordinary night into something special. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a luscious ricotta-based sauce, coating every bite of pasta in creamy, cheesy goodness. The balance of flavors—garlic, parmesan, and a hint of lemon—makes it a standout meal for any occasion.

I first discovered this recipe when I had an extra tub of ricotta in my fridge and needed a creative way to use it up. What started as a kitchen experiment quickly became a staple in our home. Now, it’s my go-to dish when I want something that feels gourmet but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with this rich and satisfying pasta dish. Whether you need a quick dinner solution or a comforting meal for a cozy night in, this recipe checks all the boxes.

First off, it's incredibly quick and easy to make. From start to finish, you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t have hours to cook.

It's also budget-friendly without sacrificing flavor. The ingredients are simple and affordable, making this an excellent option when you want something delicious without breaking the bank.

Plus, this recipe is highly versatile. You can swap the protein, change up the pasta, or even add your favorite veggies to make it your own. It’s a fantastic base for experimenting with flavors.

Lastly, it’s family-approved! Even picky eaters will love the creamy sauce and tender chicken. It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table with excitement.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in bringing the dish together beautifully.

Pasta: I recommend using penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine for this dish. These shapes hold the creamy ricotta sauce well, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you prefer whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, those work just as well.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, as they cook quickly and absorb the flavors beautifully. You can also use chicken thighs for a juicier result.

Ricotta Cheese: The star of this dish! Whole-milk ricotta gives the sauce its luxurious, creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter version, part-skim ricotta works too, though the sauce won’t be as rich.

Garlic & Onion: These aromatics add depth and warmth to the dish. Sautéing them in olive oil before adding the chicken ensures a well-developed base of flavor.

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan enhances the creaminess and adds a salty, nutty depth. Avoid pre-shredded versions, as they don’t melt as smoothly.

A large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta are the only special equipment you’ll need. A good wooden spoon and a ladle for mixing the sauce will also come in handy.

How To Make This Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

Creating this mouthwatering dish is surprisingly simple. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water—this will help loosen the sauce later if needed.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then cook the chicken until golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Once cooked through, transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest before slicing it into thin strips.

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil, then sauté the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for the sauce.

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the ricotta cheese, parmesan, and a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir well until the cheese melts into a creamy, smooth sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Finally, toss the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce. Stir everything together until the pasta is fully coated and the chicken is evenly distributed. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of extra parmesan for the perfect finishing touch.

This entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a great option when you need a quick and comforting meal.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, you’ll be happy to know this dish stores well for later enjoyment.

For refrigeration, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken slightly, but a splash of milk or pasta water when reheating will bring it back to life.

For freezing, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a bit of water or milk to restore the creaminess.

To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat with a bit of milk or water. Avoid microwaving, as it can cause the ricotta to become grainy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily adaptable it is to your preferences.

Want a vegetarian version? Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. These veggies add wonderful texture and flavor while keeping the dish hearty.

If you’re craving a little spice, add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce. It gives the creamy base a nice kick without overpowering the flavors.

For a different protein, try shrimp instead of chicken. Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with the creamy ricotta sauce.

If you prefer a lighter sauce, replace half of the ricotta with Greek yogurt. This keeps the dish creamy but adds a bit of tang and extra protein.

Love extra cheese? Try mixing in mozzarella or fontina for an even cheesier, gooier finish.

No matter how you customize it, this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is guaranteed to be a hit at your table. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!