Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, cheesy goodness with these 19 mouthwatering chicken and ricotta pasta dishes! From classic comfort food to innovative twists on Italian cuisine, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of rich and creamy sauces or light and airy flavors, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of chicken and ricotta, exploring everything from stuffed pasta shells to baked cannelloni. With ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic butter, and arugula adding depth and freshness to each dish, you’re sure to find inspiration for your next family dinner or special occasion.
So grab a fork, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of creamy chicken and ricotta pasta delights!
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Chicken Breast
Moist and flavorful, this recipe combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the nutritious power of spinach for a delicious main dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together spinach, ricotta cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the spinach-ricotta mixture, dividing it evenly among the four breasts.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed chicken breasts and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Chicken Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of ricotta cheese and juicy chicken, all tossed with al dente pasta. A perfect weeknight dinner that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet, leaving drippings behind. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and basil. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Toss cooked pasta with chicken and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Ricotta and Chicken Lasagna
This classic Italian dish combines tender chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and layers of pasta, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal. With minimal prep time and easy assembly, this lasagna is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and parsley. Mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked chicken and marinara sauce.
5. Assemble the lasagna by spreading half of the ricotta mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by half of the chicken mixture, then half of the noodles. Repeat layers.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A classic Italian-American comfort food, this recipe combines the flavors of chicken, ricotta cheese, and pasta for a satisfying meal. With a simple and straightforward preparation process, you’ll be enjoying these creamy stuffed shells in no time!
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked shell with the chicken-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ricotta-Stuffed Chicken with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A flavorful and moist chicken dish filled with the creaminess of ricotta cheese, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, parsley, basil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket. Stuff each breast with the ricotta mixture.
4. Place stuffed chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and top with sun-dried tomatoes.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken with Whipped Ricotta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic butter chicken with the creamy indulgence of whipped ricotta cheese. The result is a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup whipped ricotta cheese (see note)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Place the garlic butter mixture on each breast, spreading evenly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, whip ricotta cheese in a separate bowl until smooth.
7. Serve chicken breasts with whipped ricotta cheese spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken and Ricotta Meatballs in Marinara
These tender meatballs are infused with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese and the savory flavor of chicken, perfectly balanced by a rich marinara sauce. A simple yet impressive addition to any pasta dish or as a standalone appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground chicken
– 1/2 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ricotta cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with marinara sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Baked Ricotta and Chicken Cannelloni
A creamy and flavorful twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines tender chicken with a rich ricotta filling and crispy cannelloni pasta. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1 cup (240ml) ricotta cheese
– 2 cups (400g) cooked pasta (such as cannelloni)
– 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Add cooked chicken breast to the ricotta mixture and mix until combined.
5. Stuff each cannelloni tube with the chicken-ricotta filling.
6. Place filled pasta on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Ricotta Chicken Flatbread
Elevate your flatbread game with this flavorful and fresh recipe that combines the richness of ricotta cheese, the savory taste of chicken, and the brightness of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pre-made flatbread crust (or homemade dough)
– Optional: red pepper flakes for some heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Slice chicken breast into thin strips and cook in olive oil until browned and cooked through.
4. Roll out flatbread crust to desired thickness.
5. Spread the herbed ricotta mixture over the flatbread, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Arrange cooked chicken on top of ricotta mixture.
7. Sprinkle with parsley and red pepper flakes (if using).
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Ricotta and Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your meal game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, where succulent chicken, creamy ricotta cheese, and bell peppers come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cooked and diced
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the chicken-ricotta mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chicken Piccata with Lemon Ricotta Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this Italian-inspired dish that combines tender chicken breasts with a creamy lemon ricotta sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup lemon ricotta sauce (see below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Lemon Ricotta Sauce:
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season chicken breasts with flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve chicken with lemon ricotta sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Ricotta Orzo
Elevate your weeknight meal with this satisfying one-pot wonder, featuring tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and flavorful orzo. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and orzo pasta to the pot. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Stir in the ricotta cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ricotta Chicken Pizza with Arugula
Elevate your pizza game with this creamy and flavorful Ricotta Chicken Pizza, topped with peppery arugula for added depth. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup arugula leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook chicken breast until cooked through, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, and oregano.
4. Roll out pizza dough and spread the ricotta mixture evenly.
5. Top with chicken pieces and bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and top with arugula leaves.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Chicken and Ricotta Risotto
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting dish, where tender chicken and creamy ricotta meld together in a velvety risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 cup whole milk
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. In a separate pot, bring the chicken broth to a simmer. Keep warm.
3. In a large saucepan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add the warmed chicken broth, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in the cooked chicken, milk, and ricotta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Ricotta Ravioli in Brown Butter Sage
This recipe combines tender chicken and creamy ricotta filling with crispy, buttery pasta and a hint of earthy sage. The result is a comforting, indulgent dish perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh ravioli dough
– 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out ravioli dough to desired thickness. Cut into squares or use a pasta machine.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sage. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each ravioli square. Fold to form triangles and press edges together.
5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook ravioli for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Continue cooking until butter turns golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
7. Serve cooked ravioli with brown butter and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Ricotta-Stuffed Chicken Parmesan
Elevate your chicken parmesan game with this creamy, cheesy twist! Stuff tender chicken breasts with a ricotta mixture and top with melted mozzarella for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, parsley, Parmesan, and egg.
3. Lay chicken breasts flat; make a horizontal incision in each breast to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each breast with the ricotta mixture, dividing it evenly.
5. Dip stuffed chicken breasts in breadcrumbs, pressing gently.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese; bake for an additional 5-10 minutes or until cheese is melted.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Chicken and Ricotta Calzones
This recipe brings together the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the savory flavor of chicken, all wrapped up in a crispy calzone crust. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Calzone dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and egg.
3. Roll out calzone dough to desired thickness.
4. Spoon the chicken-ricotta mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press edges together with a fork.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pesto Chicken and Ricotta Gnocchi
A classic Italian combination gets a delicious twist with this recipe, featuring tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich pesto sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cooked gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breasts and coat evenly with the ricotta mixture.
4. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, heat pesto sauce in a skillet over medium heat.
6. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions (or cook homemade gnocchi according to your recipe).
7. Combine cooked gnocchi and pesto sauce in the skillet. Stir to combine.
8. Serve chicken with gnocchi and pesto sauce, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ricotta Chicken Tacos with Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this creative recipe that combines the richness of ricotta cheese, tender chicken, and a zesty lime crema. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas (corn or flour)
– Lime crema (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together chicken, ricotta cheese, cilantro, olive oil, and lime juice.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Place mixture on tortillas and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve with Lime Crema (see below).
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, dreamy pasta dishes with this collection of 19 mouth-watering recipes that combine chicken and ricotta cheese. From classic lasagna to innovative flatbreads and tacos, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Discover how to stuff chicken breasts, shells, and peppers with ricotta goodness, or whip up a batch of creamy risotto or gnocchi. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, there’s something on this list for everyone.
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