Chef Mitchell preparing Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta recipe while experimenting in my kitchen to create a comforting dish for my family. The combination of flavors and textures captivated everyone at the dinner table. Over time, I've perfected the recipe to ensure it remains a favorite, with the perfect balance of creaminess and flavor."

With over a decade of experience in the culinary world, I specialize in American cuisine, focusing on creating comforting yet delicious dinner recipes. My passion lies in using fresh ingredients to create meals that bring families together around the dinner table.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta served on a plate

Why This Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta Recipe Works

This Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta stands out due to its wonderful combination of flavors and textures. The crispy bacon provides a savory crunch, while the creamy sauce envelops the chicken and pasta, creating a comforting dish that's hard to resist. Every bite is a mouthful of deliciousness that brings joy to any meal.

The technique of sautéing the chicken and bacon separately ensures that each ingredient retains its unique flavor and texture. By incorporating the pasta directly into the sauce, the noodles absorb the rich flavors, making every bite a delightful experience. This method guarantees a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your home.

💡 Professional Tip

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to deglaze the skillet after cooking the chicken. This will enhance the sauce’s depth and add a subtle acidity that complements the creaminess beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the chicken and bacon, then store them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply heat them up and combine with the pasta and sauce. However, it’s best to cook the pasta fresh to maintain its texture.

If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich. For a dairy-free option, use coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative, keeping in mind that these will alter the flavor slightly.

The pasta should be al dente—tender yet firm when bitten. The chicken should be cooked through and no longer pink in the center. To check the sauce, it should be creamy and well combined with the pasta and should coat the back of a spoon.

While it's possible to freeze Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta, the texture may change upon reheating. If you plan to freeze it, consider storing the pasta and sauce separately. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in a pan on low heat, adding a bit of cream to restore the consistency.

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. A light, crisp salad complements the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and buttery flavor to the meal.

Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta typically lasts for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Ensure it is stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken and bacon in advance. Store separately in the fridge, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve. This allows for quick assembly and a delicious meal in no time.

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help restore the sauce’s consistency. Stir gently until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, adding a bit of liquid for moisture.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The pasta or sauce may have absorbed too much liquid, resulting in a dry dish.

Solution: Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the pasta while reheating to restore moisture and creaminess.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The bacon may not have rendered enough fat or cooked at too low a temperature.

Solution: Ensure the bacon is cooked in a hot skillet to achieve the desired crispiness. Consider cooking it in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The chicken may become dry if overcooked.

Prevention: To prevent this, monitor the chicken closely and remove it from the heat as soon as it's cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The chicken may have been cut too thick, leading to uneven cooking.

Recovery: Cut the chicken into smaller, uniform pieces for even cooking. If this happens, return the chicken to the skillet and cook for a few additional minutes until fully cooked.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The chicken or bacon may have been cooked over too high a heat.

Prevention: Cook over medium heat and adjust as necessary to avoid burning. If it occurs, lower the heat and add a splash of broth to deglaze the pan and lift flavorful bits.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, adding a bit of sugar or cream can help cut the saltiness.

Bland: For blandness, incorporate more seasoning, fresh herbs, or a dash of hot sauce to enhance the flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta

The key ingredients for this Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta include tender chicken, crispy bacon, and flavorful penne pasta. The rich heavy cream forms the base of the sauce, giving it a luxurious texture that clings to the pasta beautifully. Fresh garlic and onion add depth of flavor, while Parmesan cheese provides a savory finish.

Using high-quality ingredients will significantly impact the final dish. Opt for fresh, organic chicken and thick-cut bacon for the best taste. Similarly, select a good quality Parmesan cheese, as it enhances the creaminess and flavor of the sauce. Fresh herbs can also elevate the dish’s overall appeal.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs offer more flavor and stay juicy during cooking. Always cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking throughout.
  • Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is recommended for this recipe as it provides a hearty texture and rich flavor. Cook it until crispy to enhance the overall dish. Save some of the rendered fat for added flavor in the sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Opt for aged Parmesan for a deeper flavor profile. Grate it fresh for the best melting quality. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
Cooking process for Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta is straightforward and rewarding. Start by cooking the pasta al dente, ensuring it retains some bite. Meanwhile, cook the bacon and chicken separately; this allows each to achieve the perfect texture before combining them in the creamy sauce.

The key to perfect results is to monitor the cooking times closely and to ensure the sauce is well-mixed with the pasta. The goal is to achieve a creamy consistency that clings to every strand of pasta without being overly heavy. Finish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

Key Technique for Perfect Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta

The most critical technique in this recipe is to properly emulsify the sauce. This means combining the cream with the chicken broth gradually while stirring to create a smooth, cohesive sauce. This process prevents separation and ensures a creamy texture that enhances the flavor of the pasta.

Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1 cup heavy cream
    For richness
  • 1 cup chicken broth
    Low sodium recommended
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    Freshly grated
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
    For flavor
  • Salt and pepper
    To taste

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 lb bacon
    Chopped
  • 12 oz penne pasta
    Or pasta of choice
  • 1 medium onion
    Diced
  • 4 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
    Halved
  • Fresh parsley
    Chopped for garnish
  • Crushed red pepper flakes
    Optional, for heat

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta

    In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. Cook the Bacon

    In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, then remove and set aside on a paper towel.

  3. Sauté the Chicken

    In the same skillet, add olive oil. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

  4. Cook the Aromatics

    Add diced onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning.

  5. Make the Sauce

    Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and stir until combined. Add grated Parmesan cheese and mix well.

  6. Combine Ingredients

    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the cooked bacon and cherry tomatoes. Toss everything to coat.

  7. Season and Serve

    Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

  8. Enjoy

    Serve hot and enjoy your creamy chicken bacon pasta!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the best flavor and texture, consume within 3-4 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore consistency.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful meal, serve your Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta with a light Caesar salad or garlic bread on the side. A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley can also enhance the presentation and flavor.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Consider adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. You can also swap the chicken for shrimp or use whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.