Description
Ricotta chicken pasta weaves Italian culinary magic into a smooth, luxurious dinner that whispers comfort. Silky cheese embraces tender chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors you’ll savor with pure Mediterranean joy.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
Pasta and Primary Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
- 1 cup (240 grams) ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) chicken broth
Seasonings and Herbs:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup (15 grams) fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare pasta according to package guidelines, ensuring al dente texture. Carefully drain, preserving 1/2 cup of starchy cooking liquid for later use.
- Season chicken breasts generously with salt and cracked black pepper, creating a flavorful exterior.
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 6-7 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board and slice into elegant strips or bite-sized cubes.
- Utilize the same skillet to sauté minced garlic, releasing its aromatic essence for roughly 30 seconds.
- Introduce ricotta, heavy cream, grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, dried basil, and oregano into the skillet. Allow the mixture to gently simmer, thickening into a luxurious sauce.
- Incorporate cooked pasta into the creamy sauce, adding chicken broth and reserved pasta water. Stir thoroughly to ensure even coating and let the ingredients meld for 2-3 minutes.
- Fold sliced chicken back into the pasta, creating a harmonious blend of protein and creamy sauce.
- Plate the dish immediately, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F with a meat thermometer for food safety.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version without compromising creamy texture.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Quickly pat chicken dry before seasoning to help achieve a golden-brown sear and enhance flavor development.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg