Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Creamy Recipe You’ll Love

Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and tender chicken, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household, and I can’t wait to share it with you! The combination of ingredients not only creates a rich and savory taste but also offers a satisfying texture that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Originating from the heart of Italian-American cuisine, this dish has evolved over the years, making it a staple for busy weeknights and special gatherings alike. People love Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta for its convenience; it’s a one-pot wonder that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic evenings. The creamy sauce, combined with the smoky flavor of bacon and the juiciness of chicken, creates a symphony of flavors that is simply irresistible. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a beloved addition to your dinner rotation!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces of pasta (penne or rotini work great)
• 6 slices of bacon
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, take your chicken breasts and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This will give the chicken a nice flavor base. 2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a beautiful color to the chicken. 3. Once the chicken is seared, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.

Cooking the Pasta

4. While the chicken is baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. 5. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside. The reserved pasta water will help to create a creamy sauce later on.

Preparing the Sauce

6. In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the bacon slices. Cook over medium heat until the bacon is crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces. 7. In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. 8. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. As it heats, the sauce will begin to thicken slightly. 9. Once the sauce is simmering, add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. 10. Season the sauce with additional salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste. This is where you can adjust the flavors to your liking.

Combining Everything

11. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add more of the reserved pasta water until you achieve a creamy consistency. 12. Gently fold in the sliced chicken and crumbled bacon, ensuring everything is evenly distributed throughout the pasta. This step is crucial as it brings all the flavors together. 13. Allow the pasta to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes over low heat, just to warm everything through and let the flavors meld together.

Serving the Dish

14. Once everything is heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the cheesy bacon chicken pasta in bowls or on plates, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. 15. Enjoy your delicious cheesy bacon chicken pasta! This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or for impressing guests at a gathering. The combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and tender chicken is sure to be a hit.

Tips and Variations

– For a healthier version, you can substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream alternative. – Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to the pasta for added nutrition and color. – If you love spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little kick. – This dish can

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. The combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and tender chicken creates a dish that is not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful pasta with a fresh garden salad or some garlic bread to soak up that delicious cheesy sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a different twist. I encourage you to give this Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta a try and make it your own! Once you’ve whipped it up, I’d love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delicious dish together! Happy cooking! Print