ravioli with chicken recipe

The Best ravioli with chicken recipe

Oh, this ravioli with chicken recipe is one of those simple pleasures that just makes everything better. I started making it years ago when my kids were little, and honestly, it’s become a staple in our house—both for special occasions and just regular family dinners. It’s got that perfect balance of comfort food and something a little lighter than heavy pasta, and my kids actually eat it without complaining, which is a win in my book. Plus, it’s not too messy or complicated, which is great when you’re juggling kids, a house, and life. The chicken adds a nice, tender bite, and the ravioli holds up well without falling apart, which is always a concern with some recipes.

This dish is also surprisingly healthy for what it is. The chicken is lean and packed with protein, and the ravioli can be made with whole wheat or even chickpea-based fillings if you want to boost the nutrition even more. It’s not greasy or overly processed, which is nice because I don’t have to feel guilty about serving it up. Plus, it’s versatile—you can serve it with a simple green salad or just a side of steamed veggies, and it’s always a hit. My family loves it because it’s not too rich, not too bland, and it’s something we can all enjoy without worrying about leftovers going to waste. It’s that kind of recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Classic Chicken Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Sauce

4.9 from 635 votes

A comforting dish featuring homemade ravioli filled with tender chicken, served in a rich garlic and cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy family meal.

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Prep Time30 mins

Cook Time50 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time80 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 large egg

For the Chicken Filling

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh, diced
• 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup (30g) breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
• 1/2 cup (120ml) tomato sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and egg until a dough forms. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and rest for 15 minutes.
2. 2 Preheat a separate pan with 1 tbsp oil. Cook diced chicken until no longer pink, then set aside. Mix chicken with Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cool completely.
3. 3 Roll the dough thinly on a floured surface (about 1/8-inch thick). Cut into 2-inch circles using a round cutter or glass. Place 1 tsp of chicken mixture in the center of each ravioli, fold, and seal edges with a little water.
4. 4 Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook ravioli for 3-4 minutes until they float. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
5. 5 In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, simmering for 5 minutes. Stir in tomato sauce and Parmesan, cooking until thickened.
6. 6 Transfer ravioli to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Pour sauce over ravioli and toss gently. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and bake for another 5 minutes until bubbly.

🔧Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Pastry cutter or fork
• Cooking pot
• Saucepan
• Food processor (optional for dough)
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22💛Saturated Fat: 14❤️Cholesterol: 120🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 40🥦Dietary Fiber: 2🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 28

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine while simmering the sauce.,Make dough ahead and store in the fridge for up to 2 days before rolling.,Substitute chicken with shrimp or spinach for a vegetarian option.,Ensure ravioli are fully cooked before adding sauce to avoid sogginess.

This ravioli with chicken recipe is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple enough to make ahead and still taste fresh when served, which is perfect for busy family gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or a holiday meal, the tender chicken and creamy sauce hide any ravioli texture issues—no one will even notice—and the dish feels special without needing fancy ingredients. It’s a reliable choice that always brings people together, especially when you can just toss it together last-minute.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Ravioli with Creamy Garlic Sauce

What is the best way to prepare fresh ravioli with chicken to ensure it cooks evenly?

To ensure even cooking, parboil the ravioli shells in boiling salted water for about 30–45 seconds until they float (they’re done). Avoid overcooking, as they can turn mushy. While the water boils, cook the chicken in a separate pot for 10–12 minutes until fully tender. Drain the ravioli, then gently fold it into the chicken mixture just before serving to maintain texture.

Can I substitute any ingredients in the ravioli filling if I don’t have chicken?

Yes! You can replace chicken with ground turkey, shrimp, mushrooms, or even a mix of spinach and ricotta for a vegetarian option. For extra flavor, add garlic, herbs, or a splash of beef broth if using a meat substitute. Just ensure the filling doesn’t exceed the ravioli’s capacity to avoid overflowing.

How do I prevent the ravioli from breaking while handling them?

To avoid breaking ravioli, handle them gently—use a slotted spoon or tongs when transferring them from boiling water to the sauce. Avoid stacking them or pressing too hard. If they’re still fragile, you can lightly brush them with a little egg wash or olive oil before cooking for extra protection.

What sauces pair best with chicken ravioli?

Classic pairings include creamy Alfredo, garlic butter, or a light tomato basil sauce. For a richer option, try a white wine and cream sauce or a lemon-butter sauce to brighten the flavors. If you prefer something lighter, a pesto-based sauce or a spicy honey mustard glaze works well too.

How long does the ravioli with chicken recipe typically take to prepare?

The total time is around 40–50 minutes, depending on prep. Prep time (chopping, boiling ravioli, cooking chicken) usually takes 15–20 minutes, while assembling and simmering the sauce adds 20–25 minutes. If you use pre-made ravioli shells, the process speeds up significantly!