Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Chicken and Spinach

Make Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Chicken and Spinach for a flavorful and quick dinner. This creamy pasta recipe features tender chicken, fresh spinach, and bright lemon zest, creating a satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable, canola, olive, or peanut oil)
• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ pound spaghetti
• 1 cup reserved pasta water
• 1 ½ teaspoons lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 ½ cups part-skim ricotta
• ½ cup shredded Parmesan (plus more for garnish)
• 5 oz. fresh spinach

Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Set both aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Butterfly the chicken breast by slicing it horizontally to create two thinner pieces. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chicken in the hot skillet and sear for 3-5 minutes per side without moving it, to achieve a golden-brown crust. If the pan gets too hot, lower the heat to medium. Once the chicken is golden and fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest without cutting into it.
5. Lower the skillet heat to medium-low. Add half of the reserved pasta water, lemon zest, lemon juice, ricotta, Parmesan, and the drained pasta. Toss the mixture until the pasta is evenly coated. Add more pasta water gradually until the desired sauce consistency is achieved.
6. Slice the rested chicken into strips and arrange them on top of the pasta. Add the spinach and toss gently until it wilts.
7. Garnish with additional Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced and Nutritious: Combines lean protein, fresh greens, and creamy pasta for a well-rounded meal.
• Bright and Refreshing Flavors: The lemon zest and juice add a vibrant touch to the creamy ricotta sauce.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep and cooking time.

Tips

• Perfect Chicken Sear: Don’t move the chicken around while it sears to achieve a beautiful golden crust.
• Reserve Extra Pasta Water: You might need more than 1 cup to adjust the sauce consistency.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach, lemon, and Parmesan elevate the flavors significantly.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and add extra spinach or roasted vegetables like cherry tomatoes and zucchini.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta for a celiac-friendly meal.
• Cheese Swap: Replace ricotta with mascarpone or cream cheese for a different texture.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, pre-cooked chicken can save time. Slice it and add it after tossing the pasta with the sauce.

What if I don’t have ricotta?
You can substitute ricotta with cottage cheese blended until smooth, or use heavy cream for a rich alternative.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

Serving and Suggestions

• Pair with a simple arugula salad drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for a light side dish.
• Serve with garlic bread or crusty French bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.