Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta Recipe

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Indulge in the perfect fusion of flavors and textures with our Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta. This exquisite dish combines the savory delight of bacon and the succulence of chicken, all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce. Whether you’re looking to impress your dinner guests or simply craving a delectable homemade meal, this recipe is your ticket to culinary excellence.

History

The origins of creamy chicken and bacon pasta can be traced back to the rich culinary heritage of Italy. Pasta, a staple in Italian cuisine, has been cherished for centuries. While the classic carbonara recipe is undoubtedly one of Italy’s most famous pasta dishes, variations like our Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta have evolved over time. The addition of chicken and creamy sauce adds an extra layer of richness and heartiness to this classic Italian comfort food.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

  • 10 oz. penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

For the Creamy Sauce:

  • 6 strips bacon
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 4 small tomatoes, diced
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to spice preference)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1.5 cups thick cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pasta

  1. Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside. The pasta should be al dente, offering a slight firmness when bitten.

Step 2: Preparing the Creamy Sauce

  1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and browned. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain any excess grease.
  2. In the same skillet, add the olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and have a golden-brown crust. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the butter, chopped garlic, diced tomatoes, spinach, paprika, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt. Sauté the mixture for about 3-5 minutes until the spinach wilts, and the tomatoes soften.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the mixture simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and blend together to create a velvety cream sauce.
  5. Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips and return it to the skillet. Crumble the cooked bacon into the sauce as well. Stir everything together, ensuring that the chicken is coated in the creamy goodness.

Step 3: Combining Pasta and Creamy Sauce

  1. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Gently toss the pasta to coat it thoroughly with the sauce, ensuring that each piece is well-dressed.
  2. Let the combined mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Italian seasoning if desired.

Step 4: Serving

  1. Once the Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta is hot and perfectly combined, garnish it with extra grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. The fresh parsley adds a touch of vibrancy and a burst of flavor.
  2. Serve the dish immediately, preferably in warm bowls, and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness of this masterpiece.

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Conclusion

Indulge in the extraordinary flavors of our Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta. This delightful dish seamlessly marries the smoky allure of bacon, the tenderness of chicken, and the rich creaminess of the sauce. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is bound to captivate your taste buds and leave a lasting impression. Serve it to family and friends, and watch their faces light up with delight. This Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta is the embodiment of comfort and indulgence on a plate.