Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

The Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is everything you need in a comforting weeknight meal—quick, creamy, and deeply satisfying. With the lush combination of ricotta, Parmesan, and a touch of cream, this pasta dish delivers a silky sauce that clings to every bite of tender penne and juicy chicken. The Italian herbs bring warmth, while a sprinkle of optional chili flakes gives it just the right amount of kick.

Serve it with a crisp green salad and warm crusty bread to make the most of every creamy spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for the family or impressing guests, this simple yet indulgent pasta is guaranteed to please. It also makes for great leftovers, reheating like a dream the next day.

Full recipes:

Ingredients:

• 300g (10 oz) penne pasta

• 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Lower the heat, then stir in ricotta, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Return the chicken to the skillet. Add Italian herbs and chili flakes (if using). Stir to combine.

6. Add the drained pasta and toss until evenly coated with the sauce.

7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 510 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta – A Comfort Food Classic with a Gourmet Touch

If you’re looking for a dinner recipe that checks all the boxes — comforting, quick to prepare, family-friendly, and restaurant-quality — look no further than this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta. With just a handful of pantry staples and a bit of Italian inspiration, this dish brings together rich, creamy textures and savory flavors into a weeknight masterpiece.

The Origin and Inspiration Behind This Dish

The roots of creamy pasta dishes can be traced back to traditional Italian cooking, where cheese and cream sauces have long been used to enrich pasta. Ricotta, in particular, holds a revered place in Italian cuisine. This soft, fresh cheese made from whey has a delicate texture and a mildly sweet flavor, making it the perfect complement to both savory and sweet dishes.

In this recipe, ricotta shines as the base of a creamy sauce, elevated by grated Parmesan for extra umami, heavy cream for richness, and a dash of garlic and herbs for depth. The addition of juicy, golden-seared chicken breasts transforms it into a protein-packed, satisfying main dish. Unlike Alfredo or carbonara, which can feel heavy, this ricotta-based pasta has a lightness that makes it suitable for all seasons.

Why Ricotta is a Game-Changer

Ricotta is often overlooked when it comes to pasta sauces, with many people defaulting to mozzarella or cheddar-based sauces. However, ricotta brings a unique creaminess without being overly greasy or rich. It’s also naturally lower in fat compared to other creamy cheeses, making it a great choice for those who want indulgent flavor without going overboard.

In this recipe, ricotta melds beautifully with heavy cream to create a velvety texture that clings to every curve of the penne pasta. The result is a sauce that tastes luxurious but feels light on the palate — a perfect harmony.

Quick, Easy, and Accessible Ingredients

One of the biggest advantages of this dish is how approachable it is. All the ingredients are likely already in your pantry or easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s a snapshot of what you’ll need:

• Penne pasta – Holds sauce well and provides a satisfying bite.

• Chicken breasts – Lean protein that sears beautifully and adds substance.

• Ricotta cheese – The hero of the sauce, offering creaminess and subtle flavor.

• Heavy cream and Parmesan – For depth, richness, and a classic Italian flavor.

• Garlic and Italian herbs – To add fragrance and earthy notes.

• Chili flakes (optional) – A gentle kick for those who love heat.

• Fresh parsley – For a bright, fresh finish.

It’s a no-fuss recipe that even beginner cooks can master, yet the result feels worthy of a fine dining table.

Perfect for Weeknight Dinners

With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, this pasta is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something fast but still crave something indulgent. The process is straightforward:

1. Cook pasta.

2. Sear chicken until golden.

3. Sauté garlic and build the sauce.

4. Toss everything together.

You’ll spend more time enjoying your meal than making it — and that’s the goal of a great weeknight recipe.

Great for Meal Prep and Leftovers

This dish isn’t just delicious fresh — it holds up remarkably well as leftovers. The ricotta and cream base reheats smoothly, especially when you add a splash of milk or broth. This makes it a fantastic candidate for meal prepping lunches or even freezing for future dinners. If you’re someone who likes to cook once and eat twice (or more), this recipe is your new best friend.

Highly Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best things about the Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is its versatility. You can easily tailor it to fit your dietary needs or preferences:

• Vegetarian? Omit the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.

• Lighter option? Use low-fat ricotta and swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even milk.

• Want more spice? Increase the chili flakes or add a dash of red pepper sauce.

• Low-carb alternative? Try the sauce with zucchini noodles or chickpea pasta.

You can also swap out the protein — shrimp, turkey, or even plant-based options like tofu work beautifully in this creamy sauce.

A Family Favorite Everyone Will Love

Picky eaters? No problem. Kids and adults alike gravitate to the creamy, cheesy goodness of this pasta. The mild flavors of ricotta and Parmesan make it a great option for children, while adults can elevate their servings with herbs, spice, or a sprinkle of fresh basil. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that encourages clean plates and second helpings.

Budget-Friendly Without Sacrificing Flavor

Fancy doesn’t have to mean expensive. This dish is proof that with just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels upscale. Because the star ingredients — ricotta, Parmesan, garlic, pasta, and chicken — are all affordable and commonly available, this dish is kind to your wallet while still offering a gourmet experience.

And since it doesn’t rely on pre-made sauces or store-bought mixes, you have full control over the quality of ingredients, which makes it healthier and fresher.

Impressive Enough for Guests

Planning a dinner party or looking to impress someone with your cooking skills? This pasta has the “wow” factor. It looks beautiful on the plate — creamy sauce glistening over golden chicken and penne, garnished with vibrant green parsley and a dusting of cheese. Serve it with a crisp white wine and a side salad, and you’ve got an elegant meal that took you less than an hour to make.

It’s also a great option for a romantic dinner. The richness and comfort it provides make it a cozy, intimate meal — one that’s sure to win hearts.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

To complete the meal, consider pairing your Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta with:

• Crusty garlic bread – Perfect for scooping up every bit of that creamy sauce.

• Arugula or Caesar salad – For a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

• White wines – A chilled Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay balances the creaminess beautifully.

• Grilled vegetables – Such as zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers for color and nutrition.

You can also prepare double batches and serve it buffet-style if you’re feeding a larger crowd.

Tips for Perfect Results Every Time

Here are a few pro tips to elevate your dish:

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.

• Reserve some pasta water before draining — it helps thin the sauce if needed.

• Don’t overcook the chicken – Just until golden and fully cooked keeps it juicy.

• Let the sauce simmer briefly before adding the pasta for a more cohesive blend.

• Taste as you go – Adjust the salt, herbs, and chili to your liking.

Cooking is both science and art — the more love and attention you give to small details, the better the results.

Conclusion

The Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is more than just a recipe — it’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, whether it’s a hectic Tuesday night or a relaxing weekend dinner.

From its comforting flavors to its quick prep time and endless versatility, it’s easy to see why this pasta is a go-to favorite. Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a permanent part of your dinner rotation.

Whether you’re a home cook looking to expand your repertoire or just someone who wants to make delicious meals with minimal effort, this dish proves that you don’t need a culinary degree to cook like a pro. Try it once — and taste the magic for yourself.