Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a decadent, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta coated in a luscious, creamy sauce. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and flavorful: The combination of creamy sauce, chicken, and bacon creates an irresistible dish.
• Easy to make: It’s simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for guests.
• Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Perfect for meal prep: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it ideal for busy schedules.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
• Chicken breast or thighs, diced
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Heavy cream
• Garlic, minced
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve some pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble, leaving a small amount of bacon grease in the skillet.
3. Sear the chicken: In the same skillet, heat olive oil or butter. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the sauce: Lower the heat and sauté the minced garlic in the skillet until fragrant. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Combine: Return the chicken and bacon to the skillet, then toss the cooked pasta into the sauce. If needed, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and bacon, and add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes.
• Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey bacon or lean chicken breast.
• Gluten-free: Swap the pasta for gluten-free pasta varieties.
• Cheese blend: Try mixing Parmesan with mozzarella or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken can save time and works well in this recipe.

2. What pasta is best for this dish?

Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti are great options, but any pasta shape will work.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the components in advance and assemble just before serving.

4. How can I thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, simmer it longer or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water.

5. Is there a dairy-free option?

Use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese.

6. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Peas, spinach, or roasted red peppers pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce.

7. How do I keep the pasta from clumping?

Toss the cooked pasta with a bit of olive oil if it will sit before combining with the sauce.

8. Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s possible, the sauce may separate upon reheating. For best results, freeze only the chicken and sauce, and cook fresh pasta when serving.

9. What herbs can I use for garnish?

Parsley, basil, or even thyme add a fresh touch to the dish.

10. Can I make this spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a kick of heat.

Conclusion

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a versatile and indulgent dish that will quickly become a favorite in your home. With its rich flavors, simple preparation, and endless customization options, it’s perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.

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