Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas – A Zesty Comfort Meal 🍝🍋

When you’re looking for a comforting yet refreshing meal, Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings. The combination of smooth ricotta, the brightness of lemon, and the richness of Parmesan comes together to create a delicious pasta dish that everyone in your family will love. This recipe is easy to make, packed with flavors, and provides a well-balanced meal in every bite.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the recipe for this creamy and flavorful pasta dish. With tender chicken, peas, and bowtie pasta swirled in a velvety lemon ricotta sauce, this dish is perfect for any occasion—from a cozy weeknight dinner to an elegant meal for special guests. You’ll learn everything from how to cook the pasta perfectly to tips on achieving the right creamy texture and the ideal balance of tangy lemon. Ready to dive into a delightful cooking adventure? Let’s go!

Why Choose Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas?

When it comes to pasta dishes, the Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas stands out due to its rich, yet light flavor profile. It combines the savory goodness of chicken, the subtle sweetness of peas, and the smoothness of ricotta, with a refreshing zesty kick from fresh lemon. The creamy texture from ricotta cheese makes every bite incredibly satisfying without being overly heavy, making this dish suitable for all seasons.

Moreover, the addition of chicken ensures that this dish is not only indulgent but also high in protein, offering a filling meal that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults. The peas add an extra touch of color and nutrition to the plate, making the dish as beautiful as it is tasty.

But let’s dive deeper into the preparation of this comforting yet indulgent dish!

Ingredients for Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas

To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients, each contributing a unique flavor and texture to this delightful dish:

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz Bowtie (farfalle) pasta: The bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle) is a perfect choice for this recipe as its shape holds the sauce wonderfully, making each bite a flavor-packed experience.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or any leftover chicken you may have. This will add a rich, savory flavor to the dish.
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed: Peas add sweetness and color, balancing out the richness of the cheese and cream. They also bring a pop of vibrant green to the dish.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese is the star of this dish, providing a creamy and smooth texture. Its mild flavor makes it perfect for pairing with the lemon.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan cheese offers a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the richness of the dish.
• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: This is the secret ingredient to achieving that dreamy creamy consistency that coats the pasta perfectly.
• Zest of 1 lemon: The zest gives an extra burst of lemon flavor, which enhances the creamy, tangy richness of the ricotta.
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice provides a tangy kick that contrasts with the creaminess of the ricotta.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic brings depth and an aromatic quality to the sauce that complements the other ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Butter adds richness to the sauce and helps sauté the garlic, giving the dish a silky base.
• ½ teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper: These seasoning staples help balance all the flavors and enhance the taste of the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who enjoy a bit of spice, red pepper flakes are an optional yet delightful addition.
• ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley bring a burst of freshness and color to the dish.

Instructions to Prepare Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas

Now that we have all the ingredients in place, it’s time to make this mouthwatering Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create the perfect pasta dish.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente.
• Pro tip: Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water will help to adjust the consistency of your sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

• In a large skillet or pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
• Stir in the ricotta cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
• Add the lemon zest and lemon juice, mixing well. The lemon brings a refreshing, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the cream and cheese.

Step 3: Combine Everything

• Add your cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and peas to the sauce. Toss gently to combine, ensuring that everything is well-coated in the creamy sauce.
• If the sauce feels too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. This will help achieve that perfect creamy texture without making the sauce too runny.
• Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired) to taste. The red pepper flakes will add a subtle heat that balances the richness of the sauce.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

• Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the fresh basil or parsley. This will add a fresh, herby note that complements the citrusy lemon and creamy texture of the pasta.
• Serve the pasta warm with a generous sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

Conclusion

The Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas is a delightful fusion of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. The rich, silky sauce combined with the freshness of lemon and the satisfying textures of pasta, chicken, and peas makes it an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is a surefire way to impress. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party and provides a satisfying balance of creaminess and zest. With its vibrant ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a recipe worth repeating!

FAQs About Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas

1. Can I use other pasta shapes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, though bowtie pasta (farfalle) works especially well due to its ability to hold sauce. Penne, fusilli, or farfalle are great alternatives.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding more veggies like spinach or roasted bell peppers. You could also add some chickpeas for a protein boost.

3. Is there a dairy-free alternative for ricotta cheese?
Yes! You can substitute ricotta with dairy-free cream cheese or tofu-based ricotta. Make sure to check the consistency and seasoning as needed.

4. How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and heat gently on the stovetop.

5. Can I freeze this pasta dish?
While the creamy sauce may change texture slightly upon freezing, this dish can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra cream or milk to restore the sauce’s smoothness.

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