Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta

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Every once in a while, a dish comes along that feels like a warm hug on a plate—Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta is exactly that! With rich flavors and a delightful creamy sauce, this pasta dish quickly becomes a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal for a holiday gathering, this recipe has you covered. I often turn to this comforting meal when I want something that pleases both the kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Dish

There are so many reasons to whip up this Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta, but let’s start with its stellar flavor profile. The crispy bacon, savory chicken, and creamy Parmesan cheese unite to create a deliciously satisfying pasta dish. Additionally, this recipe is:

Quick and Easy: It comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Kid-Approved: Kids love pasta, and adding bacon makes it even more appealing!
Budget-Friendly: With everyday ingredients that are usually on hand, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without breaking the bank.

"I made this for my family last week, and they couldn’t get enough! The flavors combined perfectly, and the kids went back for seconds!" – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Overview

Making Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta is a breeze, and you’ll find that the steps are simple to follow. The dish involves cooking the bacon and chicken separately for that perfect crisp, sautéing a few aromatics, and then combining everything with fettuccine for a rich cream sauce. By the end of it, you’ll have a beautiful creamy pasta dish that smells divine!

What You’ll Need

Before getting started, make sure you have the following ingredients:

10 slices thick-cut bacon (cut into 1/2 inch slices)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 onion (finely chopped)
1/2 stick of butter
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (chopped into small strips)
4 large cloves garlic (minced)
8 ounces fettuccine pasta
2 cups beef broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups finely grated Parmesan cheese
1-2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon water
1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)

Feel free to substitute ingredients—like using whole wheat pasta for a healthier option or swapping chicken for shrimp—for a twist on this classic recipe!

Directions to Follow

Creamy chicken bacon pasta served with fresh herbs for a flavorful meal

In a large skillet, cook the bacon until it’s crisp. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel to drain, reserving a little bit of the bacon grease in the pan.
Next, add the chopped chicken along with the olive oil. Season with salt and pepper, cooking the chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the onions and butter. Sauté over medium heat until soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
Incorporate the fettuccine, beef broth, and additional salt and pepper into the skillet. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Cover, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 13-15 minutes or until the pasta is tender, stirring every 4-5 minutes.
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with water, then stir this mixture into the skillet.
Remove from heat and add the cream and all the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted.
Finally, top with the cooked chicken. Garnish with crispy bacon and freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy!

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serving Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta means you can get creative! Here are some ideas:

Garnish it up: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Pair with Greens: Serve with a side salad of mixed greens drizzled with vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
Bread Companion: Don’t forget to serve it with crusty bread for dipping.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To keep your Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta delicious for longer, follow these guidelines:

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can last up to 3 days.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: If you want to freeze this dish, be aware that the creamy sauce may change texture upon thawing. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Practical Cooking Tips

To take this dish to the next level, consider these useful tips:

Bacon Crunch: For extra crunch, drain excess grease from the bacon but leave a tablespoon for flavor.
Pasta Choice: You can substitute fettuccine with penne or bowtie pasta if you prefer.
Creamy Texture: If you want an even creamier sauce, add more heavy cream when combining it with the cheese.

Flavor Swaps

Want to mix things up? Here are some variations to try:

Swap Meats: Use prosciutto or pancetta instead of bacon for a different flavor profile.
Veggie Boost: Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for a healthier twist.
Spice It Up: Incorporate chili flakes, or use different herbs like thyme or basil for a unique touch.

Your Questions Answered

How long does this take to prepare?
This delicious pasta takes about 30 minutes from start to finish!
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or coconut milk.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 2 months.

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious meal that brings comfort and flavors together, look no further than this Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta. Enjoy the process of cooking it as much as you enjoy the meal itself!

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