Irresistible Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon: A Decadent Delight

Introduction

Welcome to Recipes Cookery! Today, I’m excited to share my creamy chicken pasta with bacon recipe, a dish that has quickly become a family favorite in our household. As a wife and mom, I know how precious time can be in the kitchen, and this recipe is perfect for those moments when you crave something comforting yet delicious.

Cooking is not just about following a recipe; it’s about creating memories with loved ones. My 6-year-old son loves to help, and this dish is a fun way to engage him in the kitchen. Plus, who can resist the combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon?

Ingredients

To whip up this delightful creamy chicken pasta with bacon, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz of penne pasta or your favorite pasta
• 2 cups of cooked chicken, diced
• 6 strips of bacon, chopped
• 2 cups of heavy cream
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

These ingredients are commonly found in your pantry or local grocery store. I love using fresh ingredients, especially when they are in season, to enhance the flavors in my dishes.

Timing

This creamy chicken pasta with bacon is a straightforward dish that takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Here’s how the timing breaks down:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

In just 30 minutes, you can have a delightful meal ready for your family. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s dive into the preparation of this creamy chicken pasta with bacon:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess fat. Keep about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can ruin the dish!

Step 4: Prepare the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts into a creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked chicken and bacon to the sauce. Stir well to combine. If the sauce is too thick, gradually mix in some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Mix in the Pasta

Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to ensure the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Your creamy chicken pasta with bacon is ready to enjoy!

Nutritional Information

This creamy chicken pasta with bacon serves about 4 people, and here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

• Calories: 600
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sodium: 800mg

While this dish is rich and satisfying, it’s always good to enjoy it in moderation!

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking for ways to lighten up your creamy chicken pasta with bacon, here are a few suggestions:

• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.
• Replace bacon with turkey bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a lighter version.

These alternatives can help you maintain flavor while making the dish a bit healthier!

Serving Suggestions

To make your meal even more delightful, consider these serving suggestions:

• Pair this dish with a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette.
• Serve with garlic bread for a comforting touch.
• Top with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper for added flavor.

These sides complement the creamy chicken pasta perfectly and make for a complete meal!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when making creamy chicken pasta with bacon:

• Don’t overcook the pasta. It should be al dente to hold up in the sauce.
• Avoid cooking the garlic too long. It can turn bitter, ruining your sauce.
• Don’t skip the pasta water. It helps to adjust the sauce consistency.

By steering clear of these mistakes, you’ll ensure a delicious dish every time!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store your creamy chicken pasta with bacon:

• Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce.

Enjoy your leftovers without losing the dish’s delightful creaminess!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this creamy chicken pasta with bacon is not only a quick and easy recipe but also a comforting meal that brings families together. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Cooking is all about joy and connection, and I hope this recipe helps you create beautiful memories with your loved ones just as it has for me!

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you love, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and combine it with freshly cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

How can I make it spicier?

If you enjoy a kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for extra heat.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me on this culinary adventure. I hope you give this creamy chicken pasta with bacon recipe a try and experience the comfort it brings to your table. Remember, cooking is about joy, creativity, and sharing with those you love. Until next time, happy cooking from Recipes Cookery!

Print