Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
The Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. This recipe stands out due to its creamy sauce, which envelops tender chicken and crispy bacon. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this pasta is sure to impress family and friends alike. With its quick preparation time and easy-to-find ingredients, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
- Flavorful Sauce: The creamy sauce infused with garlic and spices adds depth to every bite.
- Versatile Dish: This pasta can be served as a main course or as a side dish for gatherings.
- Kid-Friendly: The combination of chicken, bacon, and pasta appeals to both kids and adults.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with protein from chicken and fiber from spinach, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for seamless preparation. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for cooking chicken and making the creamy sauce simultaneously.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures perfectly cooked penne every time.
- Cutting board & Knife: Essential for chopping ingredients like tomatoes and garlic quickly.
Ingredients
The DELICIOUS creamy sauce permeates every single bite of this dish!
For the Chicken and Bacon
- 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 placing the bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, then remove from the skillet. Drain excess fat but leave a bit in the pan for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In the same skillet, add olive oil. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook over medium heat until golden brown on both sides (about 7-8 minutes per side). Remove from the skillet once cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced tomatoes. Sauté until tomatoes soften. Stir in spinach until wilted.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add paprika, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir well to mix all flavors together.
Step 5: Cook Pasta
While preparing the sauce, boil water in a pot. Cook penne according to package instructions. Drain when done.
Step 6: Mix Everything Together
Slice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it along with crumbled bacon back into the sauce mixture. Toss in cooked penne pasta until well combined.
Step 7: Serve
Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving hot. Enjoy your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
Serving creamy chicken pasta with bacon is a delightful experience that combines rich flavors and comforting textures. This dish can be enjoyed in various ways, making it versatile for any meal occasion.
Casual Family Dinner
- A hearty serving of creamy chicken pasta with bacon is perfect for a family gathering. Pair it with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Romantic Date Night
- For a special evening, serve this dish with dim lighting and soft music. Add a glass of white wine to elevate the dining experience.
Potluck or Gathering
- This pasta dish is an excellent choice for potlucks. Prepare it in advance and serve it warm, ensuring everyone gets a taste of its creamy goodness.
Lunch Meal Prep
- Pack individual portions of creamy chicken pasta with bacon for convenient lunches throughout the week. It’s filling and flavorful, making lunchtime more enjoyable.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
To achieve the best results with your creamy chicken pasta, consider these helpful tips.
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Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients enhance the flavor of your dish. Opt for organic chicken and fresh herbs whenever possible.
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Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your penne pasta is cooked al dente for the best texture. It will absorb the sauce without becoming mushy.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! You can always add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your palate.
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Add Extra Vegetables: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to add more nutrition and flavor to your dish.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
Pairing side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside your creamy chicken pasta with bacon.
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Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up extra sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that complements the creaminess of the pasta.
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Caesar Salad: A classic choice, Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast with its crisp romaine lettuce and tangy dressing.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while balancing out the richness of the creamy sauce.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized enhances your meal’s flavor profile beautifully.
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Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and refreshing side that pairs well with this rich dish.
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Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw brings a nice crunch and acidity to balance out the creamy flavors in your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making creamy chicken pasta with bacon, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Ignoring the bacon’s crispiness: Under-cooking the bacon can result in a chewy texture. Ensure you cook it until crispy for a perfect crunch.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough. Aim for a golden color and check that it’s cooked through but still juicy.
- Neglecting seasoning: If you skip seasoning, your pasta will taste bland. Use salt, pepper, and spices generously throughout the cooking process.
- Forgetting to reserve pasta water: Not saving some pasta water can lead to a dry dish. This starchy water can help adjust the sauce consistency later.
- Using pre-shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent melting smoothly. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan for a creamier sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store creamy chicken pasta with bacon in an airtight container.
- It should last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Make sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain quality.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer portions into microwave-safe bowls and cover them loosely. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water while reheating. Stir until warmed evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about creamy chicken pasta with bacon that might help you further.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While penne works great, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or farfalle.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cream by substituting with low-fat milk or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
What sides pair well with creamy chicken pasta with bacon?
A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this dish nicely, adding freshness and crunch.
Can I make creamy chicken pasta with bacon ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance; just store it properly and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter for a similar creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
Creamy chicken pasta with bacon is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like broccoli or mushrooms based on your preferences. This dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions—try it out today!
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a luscious creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, delivering rich flavors that will impress your family and friends. With quick prep and easy-to-find ingredients, you can have a satisfying meal ready in just 20 minutes. Serve it as a main course or alongside your favorite sides for a delightful dining experience.
Ingredients
- 6 strips of bacon
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 10 oz penne pasta
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Garlic
- Diced tomatoes
- Paprika
- Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy; remove and drain excess fat.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté seasoned chicken until golden brown on both sides; set aside.
- Melt butter in the skillet; add minced garlic and diced tomatoes. Cook until softened, then stir in spinach until wilted.
- Add paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet; mix well.
- Cook penne according to package instructions; drain and combine with chicken and bacon in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
