If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful meal that’s quick and easy to make, look no further than this Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta. This dish combines tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and savory Parmesan cheese, all tossed together with your favorite pasta and a generous amount of seasonings. The addition of crispy bacon and a burst of lemon zest takes this dish from ordinary to extraordinary, making it a family favorite in no time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing a weeknight dinner for yourself, this pasta is sure to impress.

What makes this recipe so irresistible is its balance of textures and flavors. The creamy ricotta cheese creates a rich sauce that perfectly coats the pasta, while the smoked paprika and Italian seasoning give the chicken a vibrant, aromatic flavor. The spinach adds a touch of freshness and color, and the bacon provides a satisfying crunch. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a deliciously creamy and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Creamy and Flavorful

The rich combination of ricotta cheese and Parmesan creates a creamy sauce that perfectly complements the tender chicken and pasta, making every bite indulgent.

2. Quick and Easy

This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner when you need something quick but still flavorful.

3. Versatile

The recipe is highly customizable—use your favorite type of pasta, add vegetables like spinach, or even toss in some roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.

4. Packed with Protein

The chicken and ricotta cheese make this dish a protein-packed meal that will keep you satisfied for hours.

5. Comforting and Filling

This hearty dish is the perfect comfort food, with its creamy sauce and satisfying flavors that will warm you up on even the coldest nights.

Ingredients

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

Variations

Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and bacon, and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also add chickpeas or tofu for added protein.
Different Pasta: You can swap out rotini for any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the dish some heat.
Add More Veggies: You can include more vegetables like peas, asparagus, or artichokes to boost the dish’s nutrition and flavor.
Low-Carb: For a low-carb option, substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet, set aside, and keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 2 cups of pasta water before draining the pasta.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir to combine until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the lemon juice and zest, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Chicken

Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Add Bacon and Spinach

In a separate pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, then add it to the pasta. If using, stir in the spinach and let it wilt in the heat of the pasta.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley, basil, or oregano for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve the creamy ricotta chicken pasta hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Cook the Chicken Evenly: Ensure the chicken is cooked through but not overdone by using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Use Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water helps to create a smooth sauce, so don’t skip this step! The starchy water helps thicken the sauce and makes it adhere to the pasta better.
Make It Creamier: For an even creamier sauce, you can add a little bit of heavy cream or milk to the ricotta mixture.
Crisp the Bacon: To get the bacon nice and crispy, cook it in a separate pan to avoid making the pasta too greasy.
Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.

How to Serve

This creamy ricotta chicken pasta is perfect as a standalone meal, but you can pair it with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a more complete meal. A warm, crusty bread on the side is also a great option to soak up the delicious sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover creamy ricotta chicken pasta 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 reserved pasta water if needed to loosen up the sauce.

Freezing

While the pasta can be frozen, the creaminess of the sauce may change after freezing. To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place the pasta in a saucepan over low heat, adding some of the reserved pasta water to rehydrate the sauce and bring back its creamy consistency. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, you can use ricotta alternatives like mascarpone or cream cheese if you prefer, though it will slightly change the flavor and texture of the dish.

2. Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Absolutely! You can skip the bacon or replace it with a vegetarian bacon alternative or toasted nuts for a crunchy texture.

3. What other pasta shapes can I use?

You can substitute rotini with penne, fusilli, farfalle, or spaghetti, depending on your preference.

4. How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta to make the dish gluten-free.

5. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time, then combine and finish the dish when you’re ready to serve.

6. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or zucchini. Simply sauté them in the same pan as the garlic before adding the ricotta sauce.

7. Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, frozen spinach works well. Make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the pasta.

8. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a little pasta water or milk to bring back the creamy texture.

9. Can I use boneless, skinless thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work perfectly in this recipe and can add extra flavor and moisture.

10. How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the pasta water or add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to thicken the sauce.

Conclusion

Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta is a delightful, creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s simple to make, incredibly flavorful, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special meal, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table. The combination of tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and crispy bacon creates a comforting, hearty meal that will have you coming back for more. Try it today and experience the creamy goodness for yourself!