Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy sauce, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe delivers flavor and satisfaction. The highlight of this dish is its creamy sauce that envelops the pasta and chicken, ensuring every bite is deliciously indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious meal without any fuss.
- Rich in Flavor: The combination of bacon, garlic, and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prepping for the week.
- Kid-Friendly: The creamy sauce and pasta make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: This is essential for boiling the pasta to perfection while allowing ample space for it to move freely.
- Skillet: A good skillet helps in achieving that golden-brown color on your chicken and bacon while sautéing.
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
Begin by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season your chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook over medium heat until fully cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side. Once done, remove from heat and slice into strips.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Then add diced tomatoes, spinach, paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Cook until spinach wilts down—about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Pour in heavy cream and mix well. Add shredded Parmesan cheese while stirring until melted and combined.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Meanwhile, cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add to your skillet with creamy sauce.
Step 6: Final Touches
Mix in sliced chicken and crumbled bacon into your creamy chicken pasta with bacon. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot.
Enjoy your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon! It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any table!
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
Serving Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is all about enhancing its rich flavors and providing a balanced meal. Below are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Enjoy warm, crusty garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Add a Fresh Salad
- A light salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette can refresh your palate and complement the dish nicely.
Serve with Steamed Vegetables
- Broccoli or asparagus add a pop of color and nutrition. Lightly steam them for a crisp texture.
Garnish with Extra Parmesan
- Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese over your pasta for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
Include a Glass of White Wine
- A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the richness of the pasta.
How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
To make your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon truly shine, consider these helpful tips.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente – This ensures the pasta retains some bite and doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh spinach and ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your dish.
- Adjust Seasonings – Feel free to tweak spices to suit your taste, adding more crushed red pepper for heat or herbs for freshness.
- Let It Rest – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
Pairing sides with your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Caesar Salad – This classic salad adds crunch and flavor, balancing the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, these add a delicious earthy element.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and pair well with savory chicken.
- Grilled Zucchini – Lightly seasoned grilled zucchini is a healthy side that complements the pasta’s richness.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice cooked with herbs offers a simple yet flavorful addition to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon from good to amazing. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season with salt and pepper before cooking.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long makes it mushy. Follow the package instructions for al dente texture.
- Neglecting the sauce: If you don’t let the sauce simmer, it won’t develop deep flavors. Allow the sauce to cook for a few minutes before mixing with pasta.
- Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap ingredients can compromise taste. Opt for fresh chicken, quality bacon, and real Parmesan cheese for best results.
- Not measuring ingredients: Eyeballing ingredients can throw off your dish’s balance. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Enjoy within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil. Heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or broth to keep it creamy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon:
Can I use any type of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute penne with other types like fettuccine or rotini, but cooking times may vary.
How do I make this recipe healthier?
Consider using whole wheat pasta or reducing the amount of heavy cream while adding more vegetables like broccoli or zucchini.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can cook everything except for the pasta and store it in the fridge, then combine just before serving.
What can I serve alongside Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon?
A light salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully as side dishes.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or spices based on your taste preferences. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, velvety sauce that envelops every bite. Perfect for family dinners or quick weeknight meals, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The savory flavors of garlic and Italian spices enhance the creamy texture, making it an indulgent yet easy-to-prepare comfort food. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it as leftovers, this delightful pasta dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.
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
- 4 small diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Garlic and Italian seasonings
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy; set aside.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and cook seasoned chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Slice into strips.
- Melt butter in the skillet, sauté minced garlic, then add tomatoes, spinach, and spices. Cook until spinach wilts.
- Pour in cream and mix well; add Parmesan until melted.
- Cook penne according to package instructions; drain and combine with the sauce.
- Add sliced chicken and crumbled bacon to the pasta; garnish with parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
