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There’s something irresistibly comforting about a steaming plate of pasta, especially when it’s loaded with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy sauce that clings to every bite. If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal to whip up on a busy weeknight, this Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is just the ticket. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your home kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy chicken pasta is a dream come true for anyone who loves rich, indulgent dinners that don’t take all evening to prepare. With its perfectly balanced combination of savory bacon, juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and tangy tomatoes, each bite is a delight. Plus, it’s a great option for feeding a crowd or ensuring you have leftovers for the next day. Once you try it, you’ll see why homemade beats restaurant pasta any day!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large deep skillet
- Large pot
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Paper towels
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 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
- 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 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (shredded, more for garnish)
Pasta:
- 10 oz. penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped)
Instructions
BACON:
Add bacon strips to the skillet and cook until crispy. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined platter to absorb extra grease. Chop into 1-inch pieces.
CHICKEN:
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Set aside. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet. Add chicken breasts and cook on each side on medium-high heat for about 4 minutes per side until nicely browned. If the chicken is still pink in the center, reduce heat to medium, cover, and cook for several more minutes until fully cooked. Remove chicken from the pan and slice it.
Add butter to the hot pan, and once it melts, add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes on high until they release their juices. Add fresh spinach and cook until it wilts.
Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt. Mix well.
Next, add heavy cream and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and slowly add Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and creates a creamy sauce.
PASTA:
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil, add pasta, and cook according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, but do not rinse.
Add sliced chicken, bacon, and pasta to the skillet. Then add chopped parsley. Stir until everything is fully coated in sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt, if necessary.
TO SERVE:
Serve with additional shredded Parmesan and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Tips for Success
- For a smooth sauce, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated options.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before removing it from the pan.
- Don’t rinse the pasta after cooking; this helps the sauce cling better.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies.
- Swap penne for your favorite pasta shape.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Calories: 650, Protein: 45g, Carbohydrates: 50g, Fat: 30g, Fiber: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance. Then, cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon is a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any dinner table. Give it a try and experience the wonderful flavors yourself! Don’t forget to share your thoughts or any variations you tried in the comments below. Enjoy your meal!
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