Lemon Ricotta Parmesan Pasta with Chicken & Spinach

If you're on the hunt for a dish that strikes the perfect balance between creamy, zesty, and savory, look no further than Lemon Ricotta Parmesan Pasta with Chicken & Spinach. 

This recipe combines tender chicken, vibrant spinach, and a luscious lemon ricotta sauce with the umami of Parmesan for a delightful meal that's perfect for weeknights or special occasions. In this article, we’ll break down how to prepare this delectable pasta, provide tips for success, and answer common questions about the dish.

Ingredients

To serve 4-6 people, you’ll need the following:

For the pasta:

• 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, linguine, or penne work best)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs), sliced thinly

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 3 cups fresh spinach

For the sauce:

• 1 cup ricotta cheese

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a kick)

• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (or more as needed)

• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)

To garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken slices with salt and pepper.

2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Spinach

1. In the same skillet, add the fresh spinach and cook until just wilted. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Stir in the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.

3. Slowly add the reserved pasta water, 1/4 cup at a time, to thin the sauce to your desired consistency. For a creamier texture, add the heavy cream at this stage.

4. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.

2. Return the chicken and spinach to the skillet, gently mixing them into the pasta.

3. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Plate the pasta and garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Success

1. Use fresh ingredients: Freshly squeezed lemon juice, quality Parmesan, and fresh spinach make all the difference in flavor.

2. Reserve pasta water: The starch in the pasta water helps create a smooth, cohesive sauce. Always save some before draining.

3. Don’t overcook the spinach: Wilt it just enough to maintain its bright color and nutritional value.

4. Experiment with pasta shapes: While long noodles like linguine are traditional, short pastas like penne or rigatoni work just as well and hold the sauce beautifully.

5. Make it vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add mushrooms or roasted cherry tomatoes for a veggie-packed variation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the chicken, sauté the spinach, and prepare the sauce in advance. Store each component separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stove, combine with the cooked pasta, and warm through.

2. What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

If you’re out of ricotta, substitute with mascarpone for a similar creamy texture or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Ensure that all other ingredients, like Parmesan cheese, are labeled gluten-free.

4. What other proteins can I use?

While chicken is a classic choice, shrimp, salmon, or even crispy tofu are excellent alternatives. Adjust cooking times as needed.

5. Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Broccoli, asparagus, peas, or roasted red peppers would complement the flavors well. Add them during the sauté step for a quick-cooking option.

6. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

7. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat at medium or lower when adding the ricotta and lemon juice to avoid curdling. Stir continuously for a smooth consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.

2. Versatile: You can customize it with your favorite proteins, vegetables, or pasta shapes.

3. Nutrient-Packed: With spinach, lean protein, and a calcium-rich sauce, it’s a well-rounded meal.

4. Restaurant-Quality: The bright, creamy flavors feel indulgent without being overly heavy.

Final Thoughts

Lemon Ricotta Parmesan Pasta with Chicken & Spinach is a delightful recipe that brings together simple, fresh ingredients for a meal that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Pair it with a crisp white wine and a side of garlic bread for a complete dining experience.

So, gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try. Once you taste the creamy ricotta, tangy lemon, and savory Parmesan blend with tender chicken and spinach, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Bon appétit!