Easy Chicken Pasta with Bacon: A Deliciously Creamy and Savory Dinner Delight

Paula

Daily Culinary Pleasures

Creamy chicken pasta topped with crispy bacon pieces, garnished with parsley and served in a white bowl.

Few meals are as comforting as a big plate of chicken pasta with bacon. Imagine perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich, creamy sauce, combined with tender chicken and crispy bacon—it’s a dish that’s hard to resist. This recipe is ideal for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekends when you want something simple yet indulgent. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every step of creating this savory masterpiece, from selecting the best ingredients to perfecting the sauce. So put on your apron, and let’s start cooking!

Chicken Pasta with Bacon: A Deliciously Creamy and Savory Dinner Delight

There’s something truly comforting about a plate of creamy chicken pasta with bacon. Whether it’s the smoky flavor of crispy bacon, the tender bites of chicken, or the rich, velvety sauce, this dish is a crowd-pleaser every time. Imagine coming home after a long day to a dish that’s both delicious and easy to make—a meal that brings family and friends together around the table. In this guide, we’ll share a simple yet impressive recipe for chicken pasta with bacon that’s perfect for any night of the week. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be able to create a creamy, savory pasta that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for good reason. Here’s what makes it so popular:

  • Balanced Flavor: The combination of smoky bacon, juicy chicken, and a creamy sauce creates a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying.
  • Quick and Easy: Even though this dish is packed with flavor, it’s surprisingly simple to make, perfect for when you need something filling and tasty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
  • Versatile Dish: Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish can easily be paired with sides, salads, or served as a stand-alone meal.

With these qualities, chicken pasta with bacon is a go-to recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

A plate of creamy pasta with chunks of chicken and crispy bacon, sprinkled with parmesan and fresh herbs.
Savory chicken and smoky bacon come together in a creamy pasta dish that’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor.

To create a creamy, flavorful pasta dish, you’ll need some basic ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s all you need to begin:

Ingredients Table for Chicken Pasta with Bacon

IngredientQuantity
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts2 pieces
Bacon6 slices
Pasta (penne or fettuccine)12 oz
Heavy cream1 cup
Parmesan cheese (grated)¾ cup
Garlic (minced)2 cloves
Olive oil1 tbsp
Salt and pepperTo taste
Fresh parsley (chopped)For garnish

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

• Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.

Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the rich and savory flavor of this dish, with the Parmesan cheese and cream providing a luscious base for the sauce.

This recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish that’s ready in less than an hour.

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta
    Begin by cooking the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside. For best results, cook the pasta al dente, as it will hold up well when combined with the creamy sauce.
  2. Cook the Bacon
    Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once it cools slightly, chop it into small pieces.
  3. Sear the Chicken
    Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil and cook the chicken over medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Take the chicken out of the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, and then slice it into thin strips.
  4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
    In the skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously as it begins to simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture.
  5. Combine All Ingredients
    Add the cooked pasta, bacon, and chicken slices to the skillet, tossing them to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Add more salt and pepper to taste, if needed.
  6. Garnish and Serve
    For a finishing touch, sprinkle fresh parsley on top and add extra Parmesan if desired. Serve the pasta warm for the best flavor and texture.

This recipe serves about 4, but it can easily be doubled if you’re serving a larger group.

Even a simple recipe can benefit from a few expert tips. Here’s how to make sure your chicken pasta with bacon turns out perfect every time:

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh garlic add depth and authenticity to the flavor.
  • Control the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it. If it’s still too thin, continue simmering until it reaches the desired consistency.
  • Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Al dente pasta has a slight firmness, which holds up better in creamy sauces and ensures the dish doesn’t become mushy.

These tips help you bring out the full flavors in your dish, creating a creamy, savory pasta that tastes even better than takeout.

Forkful of creamy chicken pasta with crispy bacon bits and fresh parsley on top, served on a rustic ceramic plate.
A hearty bowl of creamy pasta loaded with juicy chicken and crispy bacon—simple ingredients, bold flavor.

Customizing a recipe is a great way to add variety to your meals. Here are some fun and easy variations for this dish:

Lighter Chicken Pasta with Bacon

For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or use a dairy-free cream substitute. You can also opt for turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a lower-fat alternative.

Spicy Chicken Pasta with Bacon

If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or sprinkle a bit of cayenne pepper over the chicken before cooking.

Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Vegetables

Adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms can add both flavor and nutrition. Simply sauté them in the skillet after cooking the bacon, then add them to the sauce with the pasta.

These variations let you adapt the recipe to suit your preferences while keeping the same delicious foundation of flavors.

This dish is rich and creamy on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and beverages can make for an even more memorable meal.

Suggested Sides and Pairings

  • Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce and adding an extra touch of flavor.
  • Caesar Salad: A crisp, refreshing salad with romaine, Parmesan, and croutons balances the richness of the pasta.
  • Chilled White Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and smoky bacon beautifully.

These pairings create a complete dining experience, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! This recipe works well with any pasta shape that holds sauce well, such as fettuccine, rigatoni, or even rotini.

How can I make the sauce lighter?

To create a lighter sauce, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half, or use a dairy-free alternative if preferred.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut—simply shred or chop it and add it to the sauce with the pasta.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute gluten-free pasta for regular pasta, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version.

Chicken pasta with bacon is the ultimate comfort food. With its rich, creamy sauce, smoky bacon, and tender chicken, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, entertaining guests, or just treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed hit.

The next time you’re in the mood for a savory, indulgent meal, try making this chicken pasta with bacon. Feel free to experiment with variations or add your favorite ingredients, and don’t forget to share your creations in the comments below. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Creamy pasta with sliced chicken breast and crispy bacon crumbles, topped with grated parmesan and fresh basil leaves.

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon Recipe

This creamy chicken pasta with bacon is a rich, comforting dish made with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a smooth garlic-parmesan sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it’s hearty, flavorful, and sure to satisfy every craving.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Large pot (for boiling pasta)
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Knife & cutting board
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Colander

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz 225g pasta (penne or fettuccine work well)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb 450g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 strips bacon chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning optional
  • Fresh parsley or basil chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Bacon:

  • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy (5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.

Cook the Chicken:

  • Season chicken strips with salt and pepper. In the same skillet with bacon fat and olive oil, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

  • In the same skillet, lower heat and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in parmesan and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine Everything:

  • Return the pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Cook 1–2 more minutes until heated through.

Serve:

  • Garnish with chopped parsley or basil and extra parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

Serving Tip:

Pair with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
Keyword Chicken Pasta with Bacon Recipe

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