Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon. Loaded with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce, this dish is both hearty and satisfying. With fresh tomatoes and spinach added for balance, this pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon has become a family favorite at our dinner table. My husband and kids love it so much that it’s now our go-to meal when we want something comforting yet indulgent. The first time I made this, the aroma of garlic, bacon, and creamy cheese filled the house, and everyone rushed to the kitchen, eager for dinner. Now, it’s a weekly staple, especially on those cozy nights when we crave something warm and savory!
Why This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon?
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious, velvety sauce that coats every bite of pasta.
- Savory Bacon & Chicken: Crispy bacon and tender chicken breast add delicious layers of texture and flavor.
- Loaded with Fresh Veggies: The addition of tomatoes and spinach balances the richness, making it a complete and satisfying meal.
- Family Favorite: This is a meal that everyone in your household will request again and again!
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 strips (150g) Bacon
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) Olive Oil
- 1 pound (450g) Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 1 teaspoon (2g) Garlic Powder
- Salt & Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon (15g) Butter
- 3 Garlic Cloves, minced (about 15g)
- 4 small Tomatoes, diced (about 300g)
- 2 cups (60g) Fresh Spinach
- 1 ½ teaspoon (3g) Paprika
- 1 teaspoon (2g) Italian Seasoning (more to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon (0.5g) Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
- ½ teaspoon (3g) Salt
- 1½ cups (360ml) Heavy Cream
- 1 cup (100g) Shredded Parmesan Cheese (more for garnish)
Pasta:
- 10 oz. (280g) Penne Pasta
- 2 tablespoons (8g) Fresh Parsley, chopped
Directions:
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, fry the bacon strips until they are crispy. Remove them from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Chop the bacon into 1-inch (2.5cm) pieces. Drain and wipe the skillet.
- Cook the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel, then season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4 minutes per side, or until browned. If the chicken is still pink in the middle, cover and cook on medium until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and slice into strips.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes until they release their juices. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
- Season and Cream: Reduce the heat to low, then season the mixture with paprika, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and salt. Pour in the heavy cream and allow it to gently simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Cook the Pasta: While preparing the sauce, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain, but do not rinse the pasta.
- Combine: Add the sliced chicken, crispy bacon, and cooked pasta to the sauce. Stir in the chopped parsley and make sure everything is well-coated. Taste and season with additional salt if necessary.
- Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy this creamy, savory pasta dish with family and friends!
Notes:
- Chicken Substitute: You can use boneless chicken thighs if preferred for an even juicier texture.
- Creamy Variation: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for a touch of acidity and depth of flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and check that all other ingredients, like the cream and cheese, are gluten-free.
