Creamy Whipped Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This Whipped Ricotta One-Pot Chicken Pasta is a quick and creamy dinner that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and fluffy ricotta for a comforting meal. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot or deep skillet, cook the pasta according to package instructions. When the pasta is halfway done, add the chicken pieces and garlic to the pot and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and the pasta is tender.
- Step 2: While the pasta and chicken cook, whip the ricotta cheese until smooth and airy using a spoon or whisk. Stir the whipped ricotta into the pot with the cooked pasta and chicken. Mix well to coat everything in creamy ricotta and heat through before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add a burst of flavor just before serving.
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier texture.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the ricotta for a bright, tangy twist.
- For extra richness, stir in a handful of grated Parmesan cheese with the ricotta.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop 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 other types of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe works well with most pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it necessary to whip the ricotta?
Whipping the ricotta makes it lighter and creamier, helping it coat the pasta evenly. If you prefer, you can stir it in as is, but whipping improves the texture.
PrintCreamy Whipped Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
A creamy, comforting one-pot chicken pasta featuring tender chicken and garlic-infused pasta all brought together with rich, whipped ricotta cheese for a smooth, luscious finish.
- 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
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Dairy
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
Other Ingredients
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the cut chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add garlic and pasta: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the pasta to the pot and stir to combine.
- Pour broth and simmer: Pour in chicken broth and bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed, about 12-15 minutes.
- Whip and add ricotta: While pasta is cooking, whip the ricotta cheese in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Once pasta is cooked, stir the whipped ricotta into the pot to create a creamy sauce coating the chicken and pasta evenly.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can use any short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or shells for this recipe.
- Whipping the ricotta cheese beforehand creates a silkier texture and helps the sauce coat the pasta better.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of cream or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese when stirring in the ricotta.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta in the broth; keep checking for al dente texture.
- This dish can be customized by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms during the simmering step.
Keywords: whipped ricotta chicken pasta one-pot creamy garlic pasta quick dinner easy weeknight meal
