Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon

The Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and textures, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This pasta recipe is not only quick to prepare but also delivers a comforting, creamy sauce that complements the chicken and bacon beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its deliciousness and ease.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Chicken and Bacon
• For the Sauce
• For the Pasta
• How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
• Step 1: Cook the Bacon
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
• Step 4: Combine Everything
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
• With Fresh Herbs
• With Grated Cheese
• Accompanied by Bread
• With Salad
• How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
• Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
• Reheating Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use other types of pasta?
• How can I customize my Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon?
• Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
• What should I serve with Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 40 minutes, this recipe is great for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it by adding your favorite veggies or swapping proteins.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the savory flavors of chicken and bacon.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is required since everything comes together in one pan.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing the chicken and creating the creamy sauce without needing multiple pans.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures the penne cooks evenly while you prepare the rest of the dish.
• Sharp knife: Helps in quickly chopping ingredients like garlic and tomatoes, saving you time in preparation.

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 cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy.
1. Remove from pan and let drain on paper towels.
2. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In the same skillet, add olive oil to the remaining grease.
1. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Cook chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and let it rest before slicing.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Add butter to the skillet; melt over medium heat.
1. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
2. Add diced tomatoes and spinach; cook until wilted.
3. Stir in paprika, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return sliced chicken to the skillet with creamy sauce.
1. Cook penne according to package instructions; drain once cooked.
2. Toss penne into the skillet with chicken and sauce; mix well to combine.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish your creamy chicken pasta with bacon using chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before plating up!

Enjoy your rich, flavorful meal that’s bound to become a family favorite!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and added freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add whole basil leaves for an aromatic touch that complements the creaminess.

With Grated Cheese

• Extra Parmesan: Serve with additional shredded Parmesan on top for an extra cheesy bite.
• Feta Crumbles: For a tangy twist, sprinkle some feta cheese over the pasta just before serving.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Pair this dish with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette makes a great addition for dipping into the sauce.

With Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
• Mixed Greens: Lightly dressed mixed greens offer a crisp and healthy side to balance the meal.

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How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon

Perfecting your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon can elevate it from good to outstanding. Here are some tips to achieve that perfect dish.

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken and bacon for better flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cook the chicken until just done to keep it juicy. Overcooking can lead to dryness.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference before serving.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon can enhance the meal’s overall appeal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic companion that perfectly complements creamy pasta dishes.
2. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and refreshing side.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers nutritional balance and vibrant color.
5. Roasted Asparagus: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted asparagus adds elegance to your meal.
6. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing provides a zesty contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes is key to making the best Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon. Here are some common pitfalls to keep in mind.

• Skipping the seasoning – Failing to properly season your chicken and pasta can leave your dish bland. Always use salt and pepper generously for flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta – Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions for al dente texture, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
• Not using enough fat – A rich, creamy sauce requires sufficient fat. Don’t skimp on the butter and olive oil; they help create a glossy finish.
• Forgetting to prep ingredients – This can lead to chaos in the kitchen. Have all your ingredients ready before starting to ensure smooth cooking.
• Using low-quality bacon – Bacon is a star ingredient; poor quality can ruin the dish. Choose thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop – Warm over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream if it seems dry, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon that might help you out.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with any pasta you like! Just adjust cooking time accordingly.

How can I customize my Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also use different cheeses for varied flavors.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

What should I serve with Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon?

A light salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully, adding freshness and crunch alongside this creamy main dish.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a delightful balance of flavors that pleases everyone at the table. Its creamy sauce makes it comforting and satisfying while being versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences!