Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta

A creamy pasta dish that is quick and full of flavor. It mixes chicken, bacon, and a simple cream sauce for a hearty meal.

introduction

This Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta is easy to make and tasty. It uses simple ingredients and cooks fast. You can pair it with many sides, like a light salad or lemon herb chicken and rice pilaf for a different meal idea. The steps are clear and you can make it on a weeknight.

why make this recipe

• It is quick to cook and uses common ingredients.
• The sauce is rich and creamy but simple to make.
• Bacon adds a smoky crunch and chicken makes it filling.
• It works for family dinners or for guests.

how to make Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta

Follow the steps below in order. Work with hot pans carefully.

Ingredients :

• 6 oz / 180 g fettuccine or other pasta
• 5 -7 oz / 150 – 200 g bacon, chopped
• 6 oz / 180 g chicken breast, cut in half horizontally
• 1 tbsp (30 g) butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 small onion, finely chopped (brown, white or yellow)
• 3/4 cup (185ml) heavy cream / thickened cream
• Parmesan cheese (to taste)

Directions :

1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter, and once melted, add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until onion is translucent.
4. Add the chicken breast to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove chicken and slice.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and add the cooked bacon back to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes.
6. Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce until well coated.
7. Serve with sliced chicken on top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

how to serve Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta

Serve hot on plates or in a wide bowl. Put the sliced chicken on top. Add extra Parmesan if you like. A green salad or roasted vegetables go well. For a side idea with bacon, try baked potatoes with crispy broccoli and bacon.

how to store Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta

• Cool the pasta to room temperature within two hours.
• Put in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, warm gently in a pan with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Do not boil.
• You can freeze, but texture may change. Freeze in a tight container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta

• Cook pasta to al dente so it stays firm when mixed with sauce.
• Save a little pasta water if the sauce is too thick; add a spoonful to loosen it.
• Cut chicken thin if you want faster cooking.
• Use fresh Parmesan for better flavor.
• Taste and add salt only at the end because bacon and Parmesan add salt.

variation (if any)

• Add mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for more vegetables.
• Use penne, spaghetti, or tagliatelle instead of fettuccine.
• Swap cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes. Add pre-cooked chicken at step 5 so it warms through without drying.

Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
A: You can use a dairy-free cream alternative, but flavor changes. Use a dairy-free Parmesan or skip it.

Q: How do I make the sauce thicker?
A: Let the sauce simmer a bit longer to reduce. Or stir in a small spoon of grated Parmesan to help thicken.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: You can cook parts ahead—cook bacon and chicken, keep sauce separate, then combine and reheat before serving.

Q: Can I add veggies?
A: Yes. Add mushrooms, peas, or spinach when you add the cream so they cook in the sauce.

Conclusion

For another take or extra tips on a similar dish, see this detailed version: Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta – RecipeTin Eats.