Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
The Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or preparing a cozy meal for two, this recipe delivers deliciousness in every bite. The crispy bacon adds a savory crunch, while the creamy sauce envelops the pasta and chicken, creating an irresistible combination.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of bacon, garlic, and cream creates a luscious sauce that enhances the taste of chicken and pasta.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients to cater to dietary preferences or seasonal availability.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its hearty components, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
- Leftover Friendly: Enjoy the tasty leftovers the next day; they heat up beautifully!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta quickly and efficiently.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and bacon to achieve optimal flavor.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like garlic and tomatoes.
Ingredients
The DELICIOUS creamy sauce permeates every single bite of this dish!
For the Bacon and Chicken
- 6 bacon strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless and skinless chicken (thick in size, such as chicken breasts)
- salt and pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 4 small tomatoes (diced)
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (more if desired)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1.5 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (shredded; more for garnish)
For the Pasta
- 10 oz. penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped)
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy.
1. Remove bacon from skillet and place on paper towels to drain excess grease.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In the same skillet, add olive oil.
1. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before placing them in the skillet.
2. Cook until golden brown on both sides and no longer pink inside, about 6-7 minutes per side.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and let it rest before slicing.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
1. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in diced tomatoes, spinach, paprika, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt.
3. Cook until spinach wilts down; then pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add cooked penne pasta to the sauce mixture along with sliced chicken and crumbled bacon.
1. Toss everything together until well combined.
2. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley for added freshness. Enjoy your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon hot!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad – The crisp romaine and tangy dressing complement the rich pasta.
- Greek Salad – Refreshing cucumbers and feta cheese provide a nice contrast to the creamy sauce.
Add Extra Protein
- Grilled Chicken – For those who want even more protein, add grilled chicken on top of the pasta.
- Shrimp – Sautéed shrimp can add a seafood twist to this hearty dish.
Serve with Bread
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, garlic bread is a must-have.
- Breadsticks – Soft breadsticks can serve as a lovely side to this pasta dish.
Garnish for Presentation
- Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness.
- Extra Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of Parmesan enhances both flavor and presentation.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
To make this recipe truly shine, here are some helpful tips for perfecting your creamy chicken pasta.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes elevate the overall flavor.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente – This ensures the pasta holds its shape and absorbs the sauce better.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken – Cook until just done to keep it juicy and tender.
- Adjust Seasonings as Needed – Taste as you go; flavors can vary based on ingredient freshness.
- Add More Veggies – Consider adding bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrients and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
Complement your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon by serving it alongside these delicious side dishes.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes pair beautifully with the rich flavors of the pasta.
- Steamed Broccoli – A light vegetable option that adds color and health benefits to your meal.
- Roasted Asparagus – Simple yet elegant, roasted asparagus adds a lovely crunch.
- Caprese Salad – The combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offers a refreshing bite.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brings a touch of sweetness that balances the richness of the dish.
- Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil makes for a flavorful appetizer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon to new heights. Here are a few pitfalls to watch for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and spices generously.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Aim for al dente to keep it firm and complement the creamy sauce.
- Not using enough cream: A dry dish is less enjoyable. Ensure you use enough heavy cream to create that rich, creamy sauce.
- Ignoring fresh ingredients: Using wilted or old vegetables diminishes flavor. Choose fresh spinach and tomatoes for the best taste.
- Rushing the cooking process: Cooking too quickly can result in unevenly cooked chicken. Take your time for juicy, tender pieces.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- It will last in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
- To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if necessary to maintain moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon?
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a rich and flavorful dish made with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a velvety cream sauce served over penne pasta.
Can I customize the recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms or substitute different types of pasta based on your preference.
How do I make it healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta and reducing the amount of cream or substituting it with Greek yogurt.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook everything except the pasta ahead of time and combine them just before serving for optimal freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is not just delicious but also versatile. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, you can easily customize it to fit your tastes. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich and comforting flavors of Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon, a satisfying dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe features tender chicken and crispy bacon, all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce that beautifully clings to penne pasta. With just 40 minutes of cooking time, you can whip up a delightful meal that pleases both family and friends. The combination of savory ingredients and creamy textures makes every bite irresistible. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 6 bacon strips
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 10 oz. penne pasta
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
- 4 small tomatoes (diced)
- 2 cups spinach
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; cook in the same skillet until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side). Let rest before slicing.
- In the skillet, melt butter over medium heat; sauté garlic until fragrant. Add diced tomatoes, spinach, paprika, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt; cook until spinach wilts.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add cooked penne pasta, sliced chicken, and crumbled bacon; toss to combine.
- Garnish with Parmesan cheese and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
