Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta is a comforting and delightful meal that brings together the rich flavors of chicken, bacon, and a creamy sauce. It’s a satisfying dish that is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your family or friends. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious, hearty pasta dish that everyone will love.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta

Ingredients

6 oz / 180 g fettuccine or other pasta
5 – 7 oz / 150 – 200 g bacon, chopped
6 oz / 180 g chicken breast, cut in half horizontally
1 tbsp (30 g) butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 small onion, finely chopped (brown, white, or yellow)
3/4 cup (185 ml) heavy cream / thickened cream
3/4 cup (185 ml) pasta cooking water (Note 1)
1/2 cup fresh grated parmesan (or 1/4 cup store-bought grated) (Note 2)
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Extra parmesan, for serving

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for the time stated on the package minus 2 minutes (it will finish cooking in the sauce).
Scoop out a mugful of pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
Meanwhile, cook the bacon in a skillet until it is golden. Drain it on paper towels.
Season the chicken on both sides, then cook it in the bacon fat for about 2 minutes on each side.
Wipe the pan if you want to keep the sauce looking pretty and white; this is optional.
Over medium heat, melt the butter in the same pan. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is light golden and soft.
Stir in the cream, about 3/4 cup of the reserved pasta water, and parmesan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes until it reduces slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently for about 1 1/2 minutes. The sauce will thicken and coat the pasta. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Toss in the cooked bacon and chicken.
Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and parsley.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta

This dish is best served hot out of the pan. You can plate it up immediately after mixing in the chicken and bacon, and then sprinkle some extra parmesan and freshly chopped parsley on top for added flavor and a lovely presentation. Pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the pasta cool completely before sealing it. To reheat, you can use the microwave or gently heat it in a skillet. You might need to add a splash of milk or pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

Tips to Make Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta

Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue to cook in the sauce.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas for extra color and nutrition.
For a little kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Variation

You can easily modify this recipe by using different types of pasta, such as penne or spaghetti. Additionally, you could substitute the chicken for shrimp or even make it a vegetarian dish by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy alternative like coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture might vary slightly.

2. Can I freeze Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta?
While you can freeze the dish, creamy sauces tend to separate when thawed. It’s best to enjoy this pasta fresh.

3. How can I make this dish lighter?
To lighten it up, you can use low-fat cream and reduce the amount of bacon or chicken. You can also increase the vegetable content to balance the dish.