This creamy chicken bacon pasta is a charming dish filled with tender chicken, crispy bacon, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes, all mixed in a rich sauce. It’s a dinner made in heaven!
I can’t resist the combination of flavors here! Plus, it’s quick to make—a perfect weeknight meal for when you’re short on time but still want something comforting and tasty.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using penne or fusilli as these shapes hold the sauce well. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or spiralized zucchini for a lighter option.
Chicken: Chicken breasts are great, but thighs work too if you prefer dark meat for a richer flavor. Canned chickpeas or tofu make good plant-based substitutes.
Bacon: Crispy bacon offers amazing flavor, but turkey bacon or pancetta can also do the trick if you’re after a lighter option. You could even skip it for a vegetarian dish!
Heavy Cream: To cut calories, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like coconut cream. Keep in mind this might alter the flavor slightly.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is a must for its vibrant color and nutrients. If unavailable, you can use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and squeeze out water first.
How Do You Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The secret to a creamy sauce is all about timing and mixing. After you’ve cooked your ingredients, here’s what to do:
- Let the skillet cool slightly before adding the cream to prevent curdling.
- Stir in the chicken broth slowly while mixing, ensuring everything blends evenly.
- Add the cheese last, allowing it to melt into the sauce for that luscious depth. If you want it even creamier, you can reserve a bit of cheese to sprinkle on top when serving.
Always remember to taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process for the best flavor!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or fusilli works well)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Sauce:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes until it’s golden and cooked through. Then, remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it aside.
3. Cooking the Bacon:
In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook it until it’s crispy. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, draining it on paper towels while leaving a bit of the bacon fat in the skillet.
4. Adding Garlic and Tomatoes:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and allow them to cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
5. Adding Spinach:
Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook just until they’re wilted. This should only take a minute or two!
6. Creating the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
7. Adding Cheese and Seasonings:
Next, mix in the grated Parmesan cheese and the optional red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Combining Ingredients:
Return the cooked chicken and crispy bacon to the skillet, stirring everything to ensure it’s well-coated in the sauce. Then, gently toss in the cooked pasta and mix to combine all the flavors.
9. Final Seasoning:
Give the dish a taste and adjust with extra salt and pepper if needed. You want it just right!
10. Garnishing and Serving:
Finally, garnish your creamy chicken bacon pasta with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and fusilli work best, you can use any pasta shape you have on hand, like rotini, spaghetti, or even gluten-free options. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy chicken bacon pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the chicken and bacon, then store them in the refrigerator. Prepare the sauce and pasta when you’re ready to eat for the freshest taste.
What’s a Good Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk, though this may yield a thinner sauce. For a non-dairy alternative, try coconut cream or cashew cream, but be aware the flavor will be slightly different!
