Creamy Whipped Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This Whipped Ricotta One-Pot Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting meal that comes together quickly and with minimal cleanup. The whipped ricotta adds a light, luscious texture that transforms a simple pasta dish into something special.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. During the last 5 minutes of pasta cooking, add the chicken breasts to the same pot to cook through.
- Step 2: Remove the chicken breasts and pasta, reserving some pasta water. Whip the ricotta gently in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Return the pasta to the pot, add the minced garlic, whipped ricotta, and sliced or shredded chicken. Stir well, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh ricotta for the creamiest texture, and whip it with a fork or whisk to avoid lumps.
- Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for brightness and extra flavor.
- Substitute chicken with cooked shrimp or sausage for a different protein option.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, pre-cooked chicken can be added at the final step. Simply stir it in with the ricotta and pasta, then heat through until warmed.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely. Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish safe for gluten-free diets without compromising flavor or texture.
PrintCreamy Whipped Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
A creamy, comforting one-pot chicken pasta featuring tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta stirred together with whipped ricotta for an ultra-smooth, rich sauce that’s easy to prepare and full of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli recommended)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
Dairy and Aromatics
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Additional Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken broth (for cooking pasta)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing chicken)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the pasta and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 10-12 minutes.
- Whip the Ricotta: While the pasta cooks, place the ricotta cheese in a bowl and whisk vigorously until smooth and creamy to create whipped ricotta.
- Combine Everything: Once the pasta is cooked, return the cooked chicken to the pot. Stir in the whipped ricotta cheese until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve immediately garnished with fresh herbs if desired for a fresh, aromatic finish.
Notes
- Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor and avoid garlic powder.
- Whipping the ricotta makes for a lighter, creamier sauce that’s easier to mix.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth for a milder flavor or to make it less rich.
- Cook pasta directly in broth for a one-pot meal that reduces cleanup.
- Add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition and color.
Keywords: one pot chicken pasta, whipped ricotta pasta, creamy chicken pasta, easy chicken pasta recipe, stovetop pasta
