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. My family loved it so much that it quickly became a staple for our weeknight dinners. Over the years, I've perfected the recipe, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor and comfort."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, I've developed a deep appreciation for comfort food. My passion for cooking has led me to create countless dinner recipes that bring families together around the table.

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

Why This Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta Recipe Works

What sets this creamy chicken bacon pasta apart is the balance of flavors and textures. The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy sauce envelops the tender chicken and pasta, creating a comforting dish everyone will adore.

The technique involves browning the chicken to develop flavor, then using the drippings to create a rich sauce. This not only enhances the overall taste but also ensures that every element of the dish complements one another seamlessly.

💡 Professional Tip

For best results, use high-quality ingredients. Fresh chicken and real Parmesan cheese make a significant difference in flavor. Additionally, don’t skimp on the bacon; it adds essential depth to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken and bacon ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and combine them with the pasta before serving. This will save you time on busy nights.

If you need a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream substitute like coconut cream. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly but will still yield a creamy sauce.

The pasta should be al dente, and the sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. The chicken should be fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Always taste to ensure the flavors are balanced.

Yes, you can freeze the pasta after it has cooled. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. However, the texture may change slightly upon reheating, so it's best enjoyed fresh.

This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for a complete meal that balances richness with freshness.

The creamy chicken bacon pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it's in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken and bacon the day before. Simply reheat everything together with the cooked pasta before serving.

To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through to avoid overcooking the pasta.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: The pasta may lack moisture and become dry.

Solution: Add additional cream or chicken broth to the pasta while reheating, stirring until the sauce is creamy again.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The bacon may not have the desired crunch.

Solution: Ensure you cook the bacon on medium heat and allow it enough time to crisp up properly before removing it from the skillet.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: The chicken or pasta may become mushy.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, keep a close eye on the chicken and pasta while cooking. Use a timer and test for doneness early.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: The chicken may be undercooked in the middle.

Recovery: Ensure the chicken is cut into uniform pieces and use a meat thermometer to check for a minimum internal temperature of 165°F.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: The chicken or bacon may burn on the outside.

Prevention: Cook on medium heat and avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to uneven cooking and burning.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If too sweet, add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to cut the sweetness.

Too Salty: If too salty, try adding a bit of sugar or some cream to balance the flavors.

Bland: If bland, season with additional salt, pepper, or fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.

Fresh ingredients for Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta

The key ingredients for this recipe include tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy sauce. The combination of these elements creates a satisfying dish that is both hearty and comforting.

Using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh chicken and real Parmesan cheese, enhances the flavor profile of the pasta, making each bite a delightful experience.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean option that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. Ensure they are evenly cut for even cooking.
  • Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a heartier texture and richer flavor. Cooking it until crispy adds a delicious crunch to the dish.
  • Cream: Heavy cream is essential for a rich sauce. Avoid low-fat versions as they don't provide the same creamy consistency.
Cooking process for Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking this creamy chicken bacon pasta is straightforward, requiring just a few simple steps. The process starts with cooking the bacon to achieve that perfect crispness, followed by sautéing the chicken in the flavorful drippings.

By simmering the sauce slowly, you ensure that all the flavors meld beautifully. Tossing everything together at the end creates a cohesive dish that is both creamy and satisfying.

Key Technique for Perfect Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta

The key to achieving the perfect creamy sauce is to simmer it gently after adding the cream and cheese. This allows the sauce to thicken without curdling and ensures a smooth, velvety texture.

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
    For depth of flavor
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    For creaminess
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    Optional for added flavor

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs chicken
    Cut into pieces
  • 1 lb bacon
    Chopped
  • 4 cups pasta
    Your choice
  • 1 medium onion
    Diced
  • 4 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
    To taste
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    To taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
    For flavor

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta

    In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. Cook the Bacon

    In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

  3. Sauté the Chicken

    In the same skillet, add the olive oil and chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.

  4. Add Onion and Garlic

    Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent.

  5. Combine Sauce Ingredients

    Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Let simmer on low heat until thickened.

  6. Add Peas and Bacon

    Mix in the frozen peas and crispy bacon. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

  7. Combine Pasta

    Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.

  8. Serve

    Garnish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes before serving.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain the creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs will elevate the dish even further.

Recipe Variations

For a lighter version, consider using zucchini noodles instead of pasta. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables and flavor variations.