Description
Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta
Ingredients
12 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
2 chicken breasts, diced
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
3 cups fresh spinach
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & pepper to taste
Directions
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Spinach & Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Toss in the spinach and cook until wilted.
Make the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked penne, chicken, and crumbled bacon into the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated with the sauce.
Serve: Garnish with additional Parmesan and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 500 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a foolproof meal. First, prep all ingredients: dice chicken, mince garlic, cook and crumble bacon, and grate Parmesan. This “mise en place” is key for smooth cooking. Start boiling heavily salted pasta water. While it heats, cook the chicken in olive oil over medium-high heat to get a good sear, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the skillet. Remove chicken, then in the same pan, sauté garlic just until fragrant (about 30 seconds) to avoid bitterness. Add spinach in batches, wilting each before adding more. When making the sauce, let the cream simmer gently; a rolling boil can cause it to break. Stir constantly while adding the Parmesan until fully melted. Finally, combine all elements off the heat to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it with a crisp arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For a heartier meal, add a side of garlic bread or roasted asparagus. To elevate presentation, serve in a warm bowl, garnished with extra Parmesan, fresh cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta. Sear seasoned chicken. Sauté garlic and wilt spinach in the same pan. Create a sauce by simmering cream with Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Combine pasta, chicken, crumbled bacon, and sauce. Toss well and serve hot with garnishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, short pastas like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle hold the sauce well. Avoid long strands like spaghetti.
How can I make this dish less heavy? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half. You can also use less bacon or leaner chicken breast.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? The components can be prepped ahead, but combine just before serving as the pasta will absorb the sauce and become thick.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore sauciness.
Is there a substitute for fresh spinach? Yes, you can use frozen thawed spinach, but be sure to squeeze out all excess water thoroughly to prevent a watery sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Garlic: Burnt garlic turns bitter. Sauté it only until fragrant.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: It often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Freshly grate your cheese.
- Adding Pasta to Unsalted Water: Salt the boiling water generously; it’s your primary chance to season the pasta itself.
- Letting the Sauce Boil Vigorously: A gentle simmer is enough to thicken the cream sauce without curdling it.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta is the ultimate 30-minute comfort food, perfectly balancing rich sauce, savory protein, and fresh greens. Its simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavor make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can consistently create a restaurant-quality dish at home. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Enjoy your delicious creation!