Creamy Ricotta Chicken Pasta (Print-Friendly Version)

Whole wheat pasta, chicken, and creamy ricotta come together for an easy, cozy dinner with fresh greens.

# What You’ll Need to Make This:

→ Pasta and Protein

01 - 340 g whole wheat pasta (penne or tortiglioni)
02 - 450 g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Cream Sauce

05 - 240 ml ricotta cheese
06 - 60 g grated Parmesan cheese
07 - 120 ml chicken broth or reserved pasta water
08 - 120 ml heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
09 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 - 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
11 - Salt, to taste
12 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Optional Additions

13 - 120 g fresh spinach or kale
14 - Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

# How to Prepare:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 120 ml of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and black pepper, and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until aromatic. Lower the heat to medium-low and add ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, and heavy cream if using. Stir until the sauce is smooth. Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if desired, and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
04 - Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Add the drained pasta and mix well. Add reserved pasta water gradually if a thinner consistency is needed.
05 - Stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until wilted.
06 - Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

# Extra Tips:

01 - Omitting heavy cream yields a lighter sauce, while including it provides a richer texture.
02 - Fresh greens add vibrant color and nutritional value but can be excluded if preferred.
03 - Any preferred pasta may be used, adjusting cooking time as necessary.

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