Creamy Chicken Pasta
A comforting dish of penne pasta coated in a rich, creamy sauce with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and aromatic garlic, perfect for any family gathering.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz Penne pasta Other types like fettuccine or rigatoni can work too.
- 1 lb Chicken breasts Fresh, high-quality chicken is recommended.
- 6 slices Bacon strips Thick-cut bacon is preferred for texture.
- 3 cloves Garlic cloves Use fresh garlic for the best taste.
- 1 tsp Paprika Smoked paprika enhances flavor.
- 1 cup Heavy cream Full-fat cream gives the richest flavor.
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning Replace with fresh herbs like basil or oregano if preferred.
- ½ cup Shredded Parmesan cheese Freshly grated cheese melts better.
Optional Additions
- 1 cup Chopped spinach Can be added during the last minutes of cooking.
- 1 cup Diced tomatoes Fresh diced tomatoes enhance flavor and texture.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 7-10 minutes or until browned and cooked through, stirring occasionally until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Add minced garlic and paprika, and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer on low for 4-5 minutes until thickened.
- While the sauce simmers, cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine the drained pasta with the sauce, and add in spinach and diced tomatoes, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Stir in the bacon during the last minute of cooking, then remove from heat.
- Garnish generously with shredded Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. It's best reheated on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water.