Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas: Your Go-To Family Favorite

Do you ever find yourself in the kitchen, staring at wilted veggies, and wondering what on earth to whip up for dinner? Well, say goodbye to dinnertime dilemmas and hello to Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas! This delightful dish is not only easy to prepare but also brings a burst of flavor that will have your family cheering for seconds. Whether you’re a busy professional or a multitasking mom, this recipe is your secret weapon for quick, satisfying meals.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas

The creamy texture of ricotta paired with the fresh zest of lemon creates an indulgent, yet light pasta dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it’s packed with protein from the chicken and a pop of color and nutrition from the peas. Trust me, if your kids can overlook the green peas, they might just declare this the best dinner ever!

So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this culinary adventure together. 🥳

Ingredients

Before we get started, gather all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process:

12 oz bowtie pasta
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
1 cup frozen peas (no need to thaw)
1 lemon (zested and juiced)
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish—optional but highly recommended)

Steps to Culinary Bliss

Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package directions until al dente. You want it to have a little bite because it will cook a bit more in the sauce. Drain and set aside, but don’t toss that pasta water just yet; it’s liquid gold for our sauce!
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned, approximately 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; that lovely golden color adds flavor!
Mix the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the ricotta, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Stir until combined. If the sauce looks a bit thick, gradually add in some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess. (Don’t panic if it seems lumpy at first. Once it warms up, it’ll smooth out—kinda like your hair on a humid day!)
Combine: Toss in the cooked pasta and frozen peas, stirring to coat everything in that luscious sauce. Allow it all to heat through for another 2-3 minutes, just enough time for the peas to warm without losing their vibrant color.
Serve: Plate it up, sprinkle with fresh herbs, and voilà! Dinner is served, and you’re basically a culinary superhero now. 🦸‍♀️

Cooking Tips

Got Leftover Chicken? Feel free to swap fresh chicken for any cooked chicken you have lying around. Leftovers can be a lifesaver on busy nights!
Make It Vegetarian: If you want to go meatless, simply skip the chicken altogether. You can add more peas or some sautéed spinach for extra greens.
Hide the Veggies: If your kids are on a “no-green” kick, try blending the peas into the sauce for a sneaky veggie boost. They’ll never know!

A Personal Touch

You know, this recipe has a special place in my heart. The first time I made it, my kids were convinced they were having an extravagant restaurant meal. I still chuckle remembering their wildly exaggerated compliments—“Mom, this should be on the menu at the fancy place!” Little did they know, I was also eating in my sweatpants while wishing I had put on real pants for this “fancy dinner.”

FAQs

Can I substitute ricotta with something else? Absolutely! Cream cheese can work in a pinch, but the flavor will differ. Greek yogurt is another option for a lighter twist.
How do I store leftovers? Place any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently with a splash of water or milk to revive that creamy goodness.

Now that you’ve mastered the Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas, get ready to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s colorful, satisfying, and, let’s be real, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Now go on, grab those aprons and let’s create more delightful memories around the dinner table! And if you’re looking for more similar recipes or cooking tips, be sure to check out my blog for plenty of inspiration.

Happy cooking!

Meta Description: Creamy Lemon Ricotta Bowtie Pasta with Chicken & Peas is the perfect quick and easy dinner. Deliciously satisfying, this dish will impress your family!