Why You'll Love This Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Grilled Chicken Recipe

There’s something truly magical about the symphony of fresh, simple Italian ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Meet your new favorite: Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Grilled Chicken—a creamy, zesty, and satisfying dish that captures the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine.

Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or an elegant gathering with friends, this recipe will transport you straight to Italy. Let me show you how to infuse authentic Italian flavors into your kitchen with simple steps and wholesome ingredients.

With its creamy sauce, bright citrus notes, and perfectly grilled chicken, this Lemon Ricotta Pasta is an effortless yet elegant dish that embodies the essence of Italian cooking. It's sure to become a household favorite, plus it's incredibly quick and easy to whip up!

How I make my Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Grilled Chicken Recipe

Truthfully, the is one of the easiest recipes I've done. The few pieces of advice for you would be to

• When grilling your chicken, pay attention so that you won't dry it out. It's a bit tricky to balance the whole kitchen with everything cooking at once.
• The sauce is kind of designed for you to make to your own liking. Meaning, I prefer a thicker sauce so I didn't add too much reserved pasta water. If you want a thinner sauce, add the pasta water little by little until you reach your desired texture.
• The same applies to how strong of a lemon flavor you wish to have. Less lemon juice may suite your needs better than others who want a powerful, zesty taste. I prefer a lighter taste but my girlfriend prefers a strong taste. Of course, you can always just add the lemon juice to the final plating to control each dishes levels.
• Please be sure to have a met thermometer on hand. You definitely want to make sure that internal temperature is where it should be.

Traditional Italian Meal Structure

Want to see what a traditional Italian meal structure looks like? Check out our GUIDE TO THE TRADITIONAL ITALIAN MEAL STRUCTURE page showcasing Italy's culinary diversity. Hot Tip: you may want to undue your belt buckle for this!

Share Your Recipe!

Don’t forget to share your creations on social media by using #ItalianCookingIdeas. Furthermore, we invite you to join other Italian Foodies in our Facebook group, where we come together to connect, exchange tips, and share our favorite Italian recipes. Lastly, as always, Buon appetito!

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Equipment

You most likely have everything you need for this recipe so here's an easy to review list of the equipment you'll need to have ready.

• Medium to large pot for boiling pasta
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Grill pan or outdoor grill
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Citrus zester

Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Grilled Chicken Recipe Ingredient List

1. 200g (7 oz) spaghetti or fettuccine
2. Extra virgin olive oil
3. Reserved pasta water
4. Ricotta cheese
5. Lemon for the juice and zest
6. Grated Parmesan cheese
7. 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8. Olive oil
9. Dried oregano
10. Salt
11. Pepper
12. Basil leaves

How to Make The Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Grilled Chicken Recipe

Pairing Suggestions for Your Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Grilled Chicken Recipe

• Beverages: A crisp Pinot Grigio enhances the lemony flavors.
• Appetizers: Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella.
• Desserts: A light lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate.

Variations

You can make opt to make the recipe to meet you diet desires, such as:

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms or grilled zucchini.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Low Carb: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles.
• Fried Delight: Try frying your chicken for delicious, alternative textures!
  • Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fried Chicken

Recipe-Related Tips

Scaling: Double the ingredients for four servings; adjust pasta water as needed.

Preparation: The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water.

Tasting Notes: Bright lemon and creamy ricotta create a balanced flavor with savory grilled chicken.

Top Tip: Use fresh ricotta and organic lemons for the best flavor.

Diets: Easily adaptable to vegetarian and gluten-free versions.

Variations: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Substitutions: Swap ricotta with mascarpone for a richer sauce.

Equipment: A grill pan works well if an outdoor grill isn’t available.

Seasonal Adjustments: Perfect for spring and summer dining.

Common Mistakes: Overcooking the chicken—always let it rest before slicing.

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Grocery Store Variation

Sometimes life gets busy, and spending hours in the kitchen just isn’t an option. That’s where this Grocery Store Variation of Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Grilled Chicken comes in. With premade ingredients sourced from Walmart, Costco, or Aldi’s, you can enjoy all the deliciousness of this Italian-inspired dish without the prep work.

Easy Ingredient List:

Pasta:

• 16 oz box of pre-packaged spaghetti or fettuccine (Barilla or store brand)
  • Price: Around $1.50 - $2.50

Sauce:

• 16 oz container of store-brand ricotta cheese
• 1 jar of pre-made lemon-flavored pasta sauce (if available) or classic Alfredo sauce (Bertolli or store brand)
• Price: Ricotta ($3 - $4); Alfredo sauce ($2.50 - $4.50)

Cheese:

• Pre-grated Parmesan cheese (8 oz container)
• Price: $4 - $6

Chicken:

• Pre-cooked grilled chicken strips (Tyson or store brand)
  • Price: $8 - $10 for a 22 oz package

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Heat the Chicken

1. In a skillet over medium heat, warm the pre-cooked grilled chicken strips until heated through (about 5-7 minutes). Set aside.

Make the Sauce

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and half a jar of pre-made Alfredo sauce. Stir until smooth.
2. Add the juice of half a lemon (optional) and season with salt and black pepper.
3. Warm the mixture in the skillet over medium-low heat until heated through (do not boil).

Assemble the Dish

1. Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until the pasta is fully coated.
2. Plate the pasta and top with the warmed grilled chicken strips.
3. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and a bit of lemon zest (optional).

Serve with Garlic Bread

1. Heat the pre-made garlic bread according to package instructions.
2. Serve alongside the pasta for a complete meal.

Pricing Breakdown (approximate):

Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on location, brand, and current store promotions. Additionally, purchasing in bulk at stores like Costco may result in higher upfront costs but can be more economical per serving if you plan to use the ingredients for multiple meals.

Pasta: $2

Ricotta Cheese: $3.50

Alfredo Sauce: $3

Grilled Chicken Strips: $9

Parmesan Cheese: $5

Lemon: $0.50

Garlic Bread: $4

Total Cost: Approximately $27 for a meal serving 4 people ($6.75 per serving)

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Time-Saving Tips:

• Skip the lemon juice if you’re in a rush—the pre-made Alfredo sauce will still provide great flavor.
• Use a microwave to warm the chicken and sauce for even faster preparation.
• Opt for fully pre-cooked garlic bread to eliminate baking time.

Why This Version Works:

This variation brings the essence of the traditional Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Grilled Chicken to your table in record time. By leveraging ready-to-use ingredients from major grocery stores, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without the hassle.

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Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fried Chicken Recipe is one such Italian-American classic, offering a creamy, zesty, and satisfying experience. There’s something magical about simple ingredients coming together to create a dish bursting with flavor. The tangy lemon, creamy ricotta, and crispy chicken deliver a harmony of textures and tastes. It’s a versatile dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s bring the authentic flavors of Italy into your kitchen, one bite at a time!

Why You'll Love This Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fried Chicken Recipe

Creamy, zesty, and irresistibly delicious, this Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fried Chicken is the perfect blend of fresh Italian flavors and comforting indulgence. Tender pasta is coated in a silky, tangy lemon-ricotta sauce and paired with crispy, golden fried chicken cutlets for a truly satisfying dish. It’s simple yet elegant—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The bright, fresh flavors of lemon and ricotta make it a crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters, and the best part? It’s ready in under 45 minutes. Serve it with a crisp white wine or sparkling lemonade, and enjoy a little taste of Italy at home!

How I make my Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fried Chicken Recipe

Along with the ingredient list and step-by-step instructions there are a few things to keep in mind while creating this delicious recipe.

• When laying the your chicken into the oil, be sure to lay the chicken away from you! You definitely do not want to be splashed by searing hot oil... trust me lol
• The sauce is kind of designed for you to make to your own liking. Meaning, I prefer a thicker sauce so I didn't add too much reserved pasta water. If you want a thinner sauce, add the pasta water little by little until you reach your desired texture.
• The same applies to how strong of a lemon flavor you wish to have. Less lemon juice may suite your needs better than others who want a powerful, zesty taste. I prefer a lighter taste but my girlfriend prefers a strong taste. Of course, you can always just add the lemon juice to the final plating to control each dishes levels.
• Please be sure to have a met thermometer on hand. You definitely want to make sure that internal temperature is where it should be.

Traditional Italian Meal Structure

Want to see what a traditional Italian meal structure looks like? Check out our GUIDE TO THE TRADITIONAL ITALIAN MEAL STRUCTURE page showcasing Italy's culinary diversity. Hot Tip: you may want to undue your belt buckle for this!

Share Your Recipe!

Don’t forget to share your creations on social media by using #ItalianCookingIdeas. Furthermore, we invite you to join other Italian Foodies in our Facebook group, where we come together to connect, exchange tips, and share our favorite Italian recipes. Lastly, as always, Buon appetito!

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Equipment

You most likely have everything you need for this recipe so here's an easy to review list of the equipment you'll need to have ready.

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowls
• Zester and juicer
• Tongs
• Paper towels
• Whisk
• Colander

Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fried Chicken Recipe Ingredient List

1. 12 oz (340g) spaghetti or linguine
2. Ricotta cheese
3. 1 Lemon for zest and lemon juice (about 2 tbsp)
4. Olive oil
5. Garlic cloves, minced
6. Grated Parmesan cheese
7. Salt
8. Pepper
9. Parsley, chopped, for garnish
10. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
11. Eggs (2)
12. Italian-style breadcrumbs
13. Garlic powder
14. Vegetable oil

How to Make The Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fried Chicken Recipe

For the Fried Chicken Cutlets

For the Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Pairing Suggestions for Your Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fried Chicken Recipe

• Beverage: Pinot Grigio – its crisp acidity complements the lemony pasta.
• Appetizer: Caprese Salad – adds a fresh touch.
• Side Dish: Garlic Bread – perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

Variations

You can make opt to make the recipe to meet you diet desires, such as:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
• Vegetarian: Substitute chicken with breaded eggplant slices.
• Lighter Option: Pan-sear chicken instead of frying.

Recipe-Related Tips

Can I scale this recipe? Yes! Double the ingredients for a larger group or halve for fewer servings.

Can I prepare it in advance? The chicken cutlets can be breaded and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Reheat in the oven for crispiness.

How do I store leftovers? Store pasta and chicken separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.

Can this be made gluten-free? Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.

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Grocery Store Variation

If you’re short on time, this simplified version of Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fried Chicken Cutlets will save you effort while delivering a satisfying, Italian-inspired meal. Using pre-made ingredients from stores like Walmart, Costco, or Aldi, you can whip up a delicious dinner in under 30 minutes.

Easy Ingredient List:

For the Pasta:

• 1 package (16 oz) of pre-cooked pasta (e.g., Barilla Ready Pasta or pre-cooked pasta from the deli section) – ~$3
• 1 container (15 oz) of ricotta cheese – ~$3.50
• 1 lemon (for zest and juice) – ~$0.50
• Pre-grated Parmesan cheese (8 oz) – ~$4
• Olive oil – ~$5 (small bottle)
• Salt and black pepper (pantry staples)

For the Fried Chicken Cutlets:

• Pre-cooked breaded chicken cutlets or chicken tenders (frozen or refrigerated, e.g., Tyson or Kirkwood brand) – ~$8

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley (optional) – ~$1.50
• Additional Parmesan cheese for serving

Sides (Optional):

• Garlic bread (frozen or ready-to-bake) – ~$4
• Bagged salad mix with dressing – ~$3.50

Estimated Total Cost: ~$30 for a meal serving 4 people.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

For the Pasta:

1. Prepare Pre-Cooked Pasta:
   • Heat the pre-cooked pasta according to package instructions (usually 60–90 seconds in the microwave). Set aside.
2. Make the Lemon Ricotta Sauce:
   • In a large bowl, combine ricotta cheese, the zest of one lemon, the juice of half a lemon, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the warmed pasta to the bowl with the ricotta mixture. Toss gently until the sauce evenly coats the pasta. If the sauce feels too thick, add a tablespoon of warm water or milk to thin it out.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Transfer to serving plates. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan and chopped parsley, if desired.

For the Fried Chicken Cutlets:

1. Prepare Pre-Made Chicken:
   • Heat the pre-cooked breaded chicken cutlets according to the package instructions. This typically involves baking in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10–15 minutes or microwaving for 2–3 minutes.
2. Slice and Serve:
   • Once heated, slice the chicken into strips for easy serving alongside the pasta.

Pricing Breakdown (approximate):

Please note that these prices are approximate and can vary based on location, brand, and current store promotions. Additionally, purchasing in bulk at stores like Costco may result in higher upfront costs but can be more economical per serving if you plan to use the ingredients for multiple meals.

Walmart:

• Pre-cooked pasta (16 oz): $2.50
• Ricotta cheese (15 oz): $3.00
• Lemon: $0.50
• Pre-grated Parmesan cheese (8 oz): $3.50
• Olive oil (small bottle): $4.00
• Pre-cooked breaded chicken cutlets (frozen, 25 oz): $7.00
• Fresh parsley: $1.00
• Garlic bread: $3.00
• Bagged salad mix with dressing: $3.00

Total: Approximately $27.50

Costco:

• Pre-cooked pasta (3-pack, 32 oz each): $8.00
• Ricotta cheese (48 oz): $7.50
• Lemons (5 lb bag): $6.00
• Pre-grated Parmesan cheese (24 oz): $10.00
• Olive oil (2-liter bottle): $15.00
• Pre-cooked breaded chicken cutlets (frozen, 5 lb): $15.00
• Fresh parsley (1 lb): $4.00
• Garlic bread (pack of 3 loaves): $8.00
• Bagged salad mix with dressing (2-pack): $6.00

Total: Approximately $79.50

Aldi:

• Pre-cooked pasta (16 oz): $2.00
• Ricotta cheese (15 oz): $2.50
• Lemon: $0.50
• Pre-grated Parmesan cheese (8 oz): $3.00
• Olive oil (small bottle): $3.50
• Pre-cooked breaded chicken cutlets (frozen, 25 oz): $6.50
• Fresh parsley: $1.00
• Garlic bread: $2.50
• Bagged salad mix with dressing: $2.50

Total: Approximately $24.00

There you have it—a quick and easy grocery store variation of Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Fried Chicken Cutlets that’s perfect for busy weeknights. No culinary skills required, just a love for delicious Italian-inspired flavors!

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Equipment

Honestly, you don't need much more cookware than what you already have. Use your favorite pot, pans, utensils and keep the ingredients on standby as I give the step-by-step instruction on when to add everything together. Check the list below.

• Large mixing bowl
• Medium saucepan
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Spaghetti and Meatballs Ingredient List

1. 1 pound ground beef
2. ½ pound ground pork
3. Breadcrumbs
4. Parmesan cheese, grated
5. Parsley
6. 1 egg
7. Olive oil
8. 1 medium Onion
9. Garlic
10. 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
11. 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
12. Tomato paste
13. Sugar
14. Salt
15. Black pepper
16. Red pepper flakes (optional)
17. Dried basil
18. Dried oregano
19. Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
20. 1 pound spaghetti noodles

How to Make Spaghetti and Meatballs

Grocery Store Variation

For busy home cooks, this simplified version of our authentic spaghetti and meatballs recipe uses pre-made ingredients from stores like Walmart, Costco, and Aldi. It’s quick, affordable, and still brings that cozy Italian-American charm to your table!

Ingredients (Available at Walmart, Costco, or Aldi)

Meatballs:

• 1 bag frozen Italian-style meatballs (approx. 24-28 oz) – $6.98 (Walmart Great Value)

Sauce:

• 1 jar marinara sauce (24 oz) – $2.18 (Rao’s at Walmart), $5.79 (Costco two-pack), or $1.95 (Aldi’s Specially Selected)
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz) – $1.14 (Walmart Great Value), $4.98 for a pack of 6 (Costco), $0.85 (Aldi)

Pasta:

• 1 box spaghetti (16 oz) – $1.34 (Barilla at Walmart), $8.49 for a pack of 6 (Costco), or $1.19 (Aldi Reggano)

Garnishes:

• Grated Parmesan cheese – $3.78 (Walmart), $11.49 (Costco), or $2.89 (Aldi)
• Fresh basil (optional) – $2.78 (Walmart) or $2.29 (Aldi)

Sides (Optional):

• Garlic bread – $3.78 (Walmart Great Value), $7.99 (Costco), or $2.45 (Aldi’s L’Oven Fresh)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1: Cook the Meatballs

• Heat frozen meatballs in a skillet over medium heat or bake according to package instructions. No extra oil needed!

2: Prepare the Sauce

• In a medium saucepan, combine the jar of marinara sauce and canned diced tomatoes. Heat on low-medium, stirring occasionally.
• Add the cooked meatballs to the sauce and simmer for 10 minutes to combine flavors.

3: Boil the Pasta

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to the package instructions, usually 9-11 minutes. Drain.

4: Assemble

• Plate the spaghetti, top with sauce and meatballs, and sprinkle with Parmesan. Add fresh basil for garnish if desired.

5: Serve

• Pair with garlic bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Estimated Cost Breakdown

• Meatballs: $6.98
• Sauce: $2.18
• Pasta: $1.34
• Parmesan: $3.78
• Optional garlic bread: $3.78
  Total Cost (Walmart): Approx. $18 for 4-6 servings (about $3 per serving!)

Why You'll Love This Grocery Store Version

This recipe is perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still crave a homemade meal. It’s easy to find these ingredients at any major grocery chain, and the shortcuts don’t skimp on flavor!

Pro Tip: Add a pinch of Italian seasoning or a splash of balsamic vinegar to your jarred sauce to enhance its depth.

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