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Quick and Delicious Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

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This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is a rich and comforting dish that comes together quickly. Tender chicken and pasta are coated in a velvety ricotta-Parmesan sauce for a flavorful, satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast or thighs, shredded or diced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp lemon zest (optional)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the chicken and cook until warmed through.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Add ricotta and a splash of reserved pasta water. Stir until smooth.
  6. Add Parmesan cheese and more pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
  7. Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
  8. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in lemon zest and chopped herbs.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and herbs if desired.

Notes

  • Add baby spinach or peas for color and extra veggies.
  • Swap chicken for sausage or mushrooms for variation.
  • To make it baked, transfer to an oven-safe dish, top with mozzarella, and broil until golden.
  • For reheating, add a splash of milk or water to revive the sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://recipesbyliza.com/quick-and-delicious-creamy-ricotta-chicken-pasta/