Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta

When you’re craving a rich and satisfying pasta dish that feels indulgent but comes together with everyday ingredients, Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta checks all the boxes. It’s creamy, savory, fresh, and full of comforting flavors, all wrapped around tender pasta and juicy, seasoned chicken. The ricotta cheese provides a light and fluffy base, while Parmesan and garlic layer in that deep, Italian-inspired flavor we all know and love.

Smoky paprika adds color and depth to the chicken, and fresh lemon juice and zest brighten everything up beautifully. Toss in some spinach for a pop of green (and a bit of nutrition), and finish with crisp bacon and fresh herbs for that irresistible final touch. This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s elegant enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a weeknight meal.

Even better, this pasta is super flexible. You can adjust the heat, the greens, or the protein, and still end up with a mouthwatering result. It’s a dish that hits all the right notes—creamy, tangy, smoky, and savory—while still feeling light thanks to the ricotta and lemon. Prepare to fall in love with your new favorite pasta night recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Ultra Creamy and Flavorful – Ricotta and Parmesan create a smooth, rich sauce with layered flavor.
2. Balanced and Bright – Lemon juice and zest cut through the richness for a refreshing finish.
3. One-Pan + One-Pot Simplicity – Minimal cleanup with big flavor payoff.
4. Customizable for Any Preference – Swap the pasta, greens, or protein easily.
5. Comfort Food with a Fresh Twist – Creamy and hearty, yet still feels light and vibrant.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• Part-skim ricotta cheese
• Salt and black pepper
• Smoked paprika
• Italian seasoning
• Garlic cloves, crushed
• Olive oil
• Rotini pasta (or pasta of choice)
• Reserved pasta water
• Lemon juice
• Lemon zest
• Bacon, chopped
• Spinach (optional)
• Fresh parsley, basil, or oregano for garnish (optional)

Variations

Protein Options

• Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or grilled tofu.
• Use rotisserie chicken for a faster prep.

Cheese Alternatives

• Replace ricotta with cream cheese or mascarpone for a richer sauce.
• Add mozzarella for extra melty goodness.

Veggie Add-Ins

• Stir in roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas.
• Use kale or arugula instead of spinach.

Spice It Up

• Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
• Mix in a bit of hot sauce or cayenne for a spicier kick.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Slice chicken breasts and season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 2 cups of pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Sauté Bacon and Garlic

In the same skillet, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Add crushed garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in ricotta, Parmesan, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Slowly add reserved pasta water, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return cooked chicken to the pan, then add cooked pasta. Toss until everything is evenly coated. Stir in spinach and let it wilt slightly from the heat.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with extra Parmesan, fresh herbs, and more cracked pepper. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room temperature ricotta to help it melt smoothly.
• Don’t skip the pasta water—it’s key to creating a silky sauce.
• Let the chicken rest after cooking before slicing for maximum juiciness.
• Taste as you go and adjust seasoning, especially the lemon and salt.
• Preheat the skillet well before searing chicken for the best crust.

How to Serve

• Serve with crusty garlic bread or a light green salad.
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
• For extra indulgence, top each serving with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Freezing

Not ideal for freezing due to ricotta’s texture, but it can be done. Freeze in portions and reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to revive the sauce. Or microwave in short intervals, stirring often.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, just slice and warm it up in the sauce before combining with the pasta.

2. What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Rotini is great, but penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine also work well.

3. Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Skip the chicken and bacon—add mushrooms or extra spinach.

4. How do I make the sauce extra smooth?

Use a whisk while adding pasta water to blend the ricotta thoroughly.

5. Is this dish spicy?

No, it’s mild as written. Add chili flakes or hot sauce for heat.

6. Can I use full-fat ricotta?

Yes, it’ll make the dish even creamier and richer.

7. What if I don’t have ricotta?

Try mascarpone, cottage cheese (blended), or even cream cheese.

8. Can I prep this in advance?

You can cook everything and assemble, then gently reheat before serving.

9. How do I keep leftovers from drying out?

Add a splash of pasta water or milk before reheating.

10. What herbs pair best?

Basil, oregano, and parsley are all perfect finishing touches.

Conclusion

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta brings together the best of comfort and freshness—tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious ricotta-based sauce infused with garlic, lemon, and cheese. It’s a dish that feels special without being fussy, making it perfect for both casual weeknights and special dinners alike. With just one bite, you’ll see why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation. It’s comforting, customizable, and undeniably delicious.

Print