Lemony Ricotta & Chicken Pasta
A vibrant and protein-packed pasta dish featuring tender chicken, creamy ricotta, and bright lemon, all tossed with chickpea pasta and fresh spinach for a quick and satisfying meal.
For 4 servings
Pat chicken breasts dry and season generously with ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, and ½ tsp garlic powder. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken to the hot skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is golden brown. Remove from skillet, tent with foil, and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Meanwhile, cook chickpea pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the pasta well.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the ricotta mixture: In a large serving bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, remaining ¼ tsp salt, and ¼ tsp black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Add the hot, drained pasta directly to the ricotta mixture in the bowl. Stir vigorously for 1-2 minutes, allowing the heat from the pasta to warm the ricotta and create a creamy sauce. Gradually add the reserved pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, stirring constantly until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Stir in the fresh spinach until it wilts into the pasta. Fold in the sliced cooked chicken.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't rinse your pasta: Rinsing removes the starch that helps the sauce cling to the pasta, which is especially important for this no-cook ricotta sauce.
- 2Use hot pasta: Adding hot pasta directly to the ricotta mixture is key for melting the ricotta into a smooth, creamy sauce. If the pasta cools too much, the sauce won't emulsify properly.
- 3Adjust pasta water gradually: The amount of pasta water needed can vary. Start with a small amount and add more slowly until you achieve your preferred sauce consistency – you might not need all of it.
- 4Season your chicken well: Properly seasoned chicken is crucial for the overall flavor of the dish. Don't be shy with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before cooking.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian Option
Omit the chicken and add 1 cup of roasted cherry tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled zucchini for a delicious meat-free version.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add ¼ to ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for a pleasant warmth.
Herbaceous BoostHerbaceous Boost
Stir in ¼ cup of fresh chopped basil, dill, or a mix of fresh herbs along with the spinach for an extra layer of aromatic flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
Chickpea pasta and lean chicken breast provide a significant amount of protein, essential for muscle repair, growth, and satiety, helping you feel full longer.
Rich in Fiber
Chickpea pasta and fresh spinach contribute dietary fiber, which supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and can aid in weight management.
Vitamin C Boost
Lemon juice and spinach are excellent sources of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune function, skin health, and aids in iron absorption.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can absolutely use regular pasta (e.g., whole wheat or white pasta) if you prefer. However, the protein and fiber content of the dish will be lower than with chickpea pasta.
