Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon Recipe
Introduction
Creamy chicken pasta with bacon is a beloved dish known for its rich flavors and comforting texture. Combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a silky cream sauce, this pasta dish is a favorite among both adults and children, perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients List
To make this delicious pasta, you will need:
- Boneless chicken breasts
- Smoked bacon strips
- Pasta (like fettuccine or penne)
- Heavy cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic cloves
- Onion
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
- Optional: fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnishing
Required Kitchen Tools
Preparing this dish requires basic kitchen tools:
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparation of Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a skillet, heat some olive oil and cook the chicken until it’s golden and fully cooked. Set aside and let it rest before slicing it into strips.
Cooking the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preparing the Bacon
In the same skillet, cook the bacon strips until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, chop into small pieces.
Making the Cream Sauce
In the leftover bacon fat, sauté onions and minced garlic until translucent. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon into the cream sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Heat through, making sure everything is warm.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Pasta
Ensure the sauce is not too thick or thin by adjusting the amount of cream. Balance the salty flavors of bacon and Parmesan with a touch of cracked black pepper or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be just al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce. Be careful not to let the cream sauce boil vigorously as it can separate and become grainy.
Nutritional Information
This dish is high in protein and fat. A serving typically contains about 600-800 calories, with significant amounts of calcium and iron from the cheese and chicken.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty pasta with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad to balance out the richness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can add a pop of color and freshness.
Pairing with Drinks
A light white wine, such as a Chardonnay or a Pinot Grigio, pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture and savory flavors of this dish.
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave, adding a little milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Variations of the Recipe
For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and bacon and add mushrooms or spinach. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey bacon.
Kids Friendly Modifications
For children, consider using milder cheeses and skipping the black pepper. Pasta shapes like bow ties or spirals can make the dish more fun for kids.
What Makes This Dish Special?
The combination of savory bacon and creamy sauce makes this dish a comforting classic that’s both satisfying and delicious.
User Reviews and Feedback
Many who have tried this recipe rave about its comfort food qualities and how it’s a hit in family dinners. Some suggest adding a bit of nutmeg or white wine to enhance the sauce’s flavor.
Conclusion
Creamy chicken pasta with bacon is a versatile and beloved dish that’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. With its rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s sure to please a crowd.
FAQs
Can I use turkey bacon in this recipe?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great alternative for a lighter version of this dish.
Is there a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream that works well?
Coconut cream or a dairy-free cooking cream can be used as a substitute.
How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
What are some tips for making this pasta ahead of time?
Cook the components separately and combine them just before serving to maintain freshness.
How can I incorporate more vegetables into this dish?
Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
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 cup 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 that will absorb extra grease. Chop into 1 inch pieces
CHICKEN: Paper towel dry the chicken and season with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Then 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 (for a total of 8 minutes) until nicely browned. If chicken is still pink in the center, reduce heat to medium and cook covered for several minutes until no longer pink in the center. Remove chicken from pan and slice it.
Add butter to the hot pan and once it melts, add chopped garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes on medium high until tomatoes release their juices. Add fresh spinach and cook until it wilts.
Reduce the heat and season with paprika, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes and salt. Mix.
Next add heavy cream and slowly add Parmesan cheese - until the cheese melts and makes the sauce creamy.
PASTA: In the meantime bring a large pot of water to boil, add pasta and cook it according to instructions. Drain the pasta, but do not rinse.
Add sliced chicken, bacon and pasta. Next add chopped parsley. Stir until fully coated in sauce. Season with more salt if necessary.
TO SERVE: Serve with additional shredded Parmesan and red pepper flakes, if desired.