Garlic Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta
This garlic chicken with creamy ricotta Alfredo pasta is a rich and comforting dish that brings together tender, seasoned chicken with a luscious, cheesy sauce. The ricotta adds a light, creamy texture to the traditional Alfredo, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Prep & Cook Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Garlic Chicken:
2 large chicken breasts, sliced into cutlets or 3-4 small chicken thighs
2 teaspoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
For the Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Sauce:
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
¾ cup ricotta cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
½ cup pasta water (reserved)
For the Pasta:
12 ounces (340g) fettuccine or tagliatelle
1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)
Optional Garnish:
Chopped parsley
Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Garlic Chicken
1. Season the chicken with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp: 75°C / 165°F).
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes).
5. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Sauce
6. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and saute for 30 seconds until fragrant.
7. Pour in the heavy cream and stir for 1-2 minutes.
8. Lower the heat and whisk in ricotta cheese, Parmesan, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
9. Stir until smooth and creamy, adding reserved pasta water gradually to reach your desired sauce consistency.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
10. Toss the drained pasta into the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
11. Slice the rested chicken and place it on top of the creamy pasta.
12. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, then serve warm.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)
Calories: ~610 kcal
Protein: ~42g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Fat: ~30g
Fiber: ~3g
(Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Notes & Tips
Lighten it up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and a lower-fat ricotta.
Make it extra garlicky: Roast a few garlic cloves and blend them into the sauce for a deeper flavor.
Add veggies: Saute mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream.
This dish is perfect for garlic lovers and creamy pasta fans alike!