If you’ve ever craved a dish that’s rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors, this Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach is going to be your new favorite. Picture tender chicken, smoky bacon, fresh spinach, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce—all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This recipe brings comfort food to a whole new level. It’s hearty enough for a family dinner and impressive enough for special occasions, yet simple enough to prepare on any weeknight.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be rewarding. With this recipe, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality flavors at home. The crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and creamy sauce complement the fresh tomatoes and spinach perfectly, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. Plus, this recipe is customizable, so you can adapt it to your tastes.
Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this flavorful dish. These simple, everyday ingredients are easy to find, making this recipe even more convenient.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| For the Pasta | |
| Penne pasta | 10 oz. |
| Parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons (for garnish) |
| For the Chicken and Bacon | |
| Bacon strips | 6 strips |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1 pound |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| For the Creamy Sauce | |
| Butter | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 cloves |
| Tomatoes, diced | 4 small tomatoes |
| Spinach | 2 cups |
| Paprika | 1 ½ teaspoons |
| Italian seasoning (mixed herbs) | 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste) |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | ¼ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Heavy cream | 1.5 cups |
| Parmesan cheese, shredded | 1 cup (plus extra for topping) |
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach
Cooking this recipe is simple if you follow these steps. Let’s walk through the process of creating this rich, creamy, and delicious pasta dish.
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
2. Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon strips until crispy and golden brown (about 5–7 minutes).
- Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.
- Once the bacon has cooled, crumble it into small pieces and set it aside.
3. Cook the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for about 5–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and slice it into bite-sized pieces.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for about 3 minutes until softened.
- Toss in the spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2 minutes.
- Add paprika, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon salt. Stir well to combine the flavors.
5. Create the Creamy Base
- Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
6. Combine Everything
- Add the cooked penne pasta, sliced chicken, and crumbled bacon to the skillet.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce, and the chicken and bacon are evenly distributed.
7. Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the creamy chicken pasta to a serving dish.
- Garnish with extra shredded Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately and enjoy every delicious bite of this hearty, comforting dish!
Why Spinach and Tomatoes Are Essential
Spinach and tomatoes add a fresh, vibrant element to this creamy dish. The spinach brings a mild earthiness, while the tomatoes offer a tangy, slightly sweet flavor that balances the richness of the sauce. These ingredients ensure that the dish feels hearty but not overly heavy.
Tips for Making the Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Always opt for freshly shredded Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as well.
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To ensure juicy, tender chicken, cook it only until it’s just done. Overcooking will make it dry.
- Save the Pasta Water: A splash of reserved pasta water can help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Make It Spicy: If you love heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce.
Customizations and Variations
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. Here are some ways you can customize it:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and chicken, and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Protein Alternatives: Swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu.
- Pasta Swap: While penne works wonderfully, you can use fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti.
FAQs About Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach
1. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk, but the sauce may be thinner. To thicken it, add a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in a little water.
2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, as they tend to separate when thawed. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and bacon separately and prepare the sauce fresh when ready to serve.
4. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! This dish pairs well with mushrooms, asparagus, peas, or roasted bell peppers. Feel free to experiment with your favorites.
5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap the penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to check that other ingredients, like Parmesan, are certified gluten-free.
6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Cook the chicken and bacon in advance, then prepare the sauce and pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion: Make Creamy Chicken Pasta Tonight!
This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a date night at home, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds. Its blend of smoky, savory, and creamy flavors is sure to make it a regular in your meal rotation.
So, gather your ingredients, grab a skillet, and get ready to enjoy this decadent and satisfying dish!