Creamy Whipped Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This Whipped Ricotta One-Pot Chicken Pasta is a creamy and comforting meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. It combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and light, airy ricotta for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into pieces
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chicken broth or water (for cooking pasta and chicken)
- Olive oil (optional, for cooking chicken)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken pieces until browned and cooked through. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Step 2: Add the pasta and chicken broth (or water) to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Step 3: Meanwhile, whip the ricotta cheese until smooth and fluffy using a whisk or electric mixer.
- Step 4: Stir the whipped ricotta into the pot with the chicken and pasta until creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 5: Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan if desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a splash of lemon juice or zest when stirring in the ricotta.
- Use fresh pasta for a quicker cooking time and a tender texture.
- Add vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or peas during the last few minutes of cooking for added color and nutrition.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the pasta cook a bit longer to absorb more liquid before adding the ricotta.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, cream cheese or mascarpone can be used as alternatives to ricotta for a similarly creamy texture, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Because the sauce contains whipped ricotta, freezing is not recommended as the texture may separate and become grainy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
PrintCreamy Whipped Ricotta Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Whipped Ricotta One-Pot Chicken Pasta is a creamy, comforting dish that combines tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta with the light, fluffy texture of whipped ricotta cheese. Made in a single pot, it offers an easy cleanup while delivering a rich, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 12 ounces dry pasta (penne or rigatoni recommended)
- 4 cups chicken broth
Ricotta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garlic
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Cook the pasta and garlic: In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the dry pasta and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente, about 10-12 minutes and most of the broth is absorbed.
- Add chicken back: Return the cooked chicken to the pot with the pasta and stir to combine.
- Whip the ricotta: In a bowl, whip the ricotta cheese with grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth and fluffy.
- Combine and serve: Stir the whipped ricotta into the pasta and chicken mixture until well incorporated and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm.
Notes
- Use whole milk ricotta for creamier texture.
- Reserve some pasta cooking liquid to thin the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be added for extra flavor.
- For a richer taste, add a splash of cream when whipping ricotta.
Keywords: One-pot, chicken pasta, whipped ricotta, easy dinner, creamy pasta
