Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. This one-pot recipe combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh spinach in a creamy sauce that coats perfectly cooked pasta. It’s suitable for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving something hearty yet easy to prepare. The standout feature is its simplicity, allowing you to whip it up in no time while impressing family and friends with its rich taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pot meal comes together swiftly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of creamy sauce, garlic, and herbs elevates the taste to a restaurant-quality dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out chicken for turkey or add your favorite vegetables for a personalized touch.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooking everything in one pot means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors, this dish is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach, you will need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment on hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without crowding.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while ensuring even mixing of flavors.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities for the best results every time.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

For the Pasta

• 2 cups uncooked penne pasta (or any short pasta)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

For the Spinach

• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, season the diced chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In the same skillet, add chopped bacon. Cook until crispy (about 4-5 minutes). Use a slotted spoon to remove bacon from the skillet while leaving drippings behind.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Broth

Add minced garlic to the skillet with bacon drippings. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Mix in Cream and Pasta

Stir in heavy cream along with uncooked penne pasta. Add paprika and dried Italian herbs. Ensure pasta is submerged in liquid. Cover skillet and cook according to pasta package instructions (typically around 10-12 minutes), stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add Spinach

Once pasta is cooked through, stir in chopped spinach until wilted (about 2 minutes). Return cooked chicken and crispy bacon back into the skillet. Mix well to combine all ingredients.

Step 6: Serve

Taste for seasoning adjustments; add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve warm straight from the skillet for a comforting meal that’s sure to please!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach

Serving your creamy chicken pasta is just as important as preparing it. Properly presenting your dish can enhance the dining experience and elevate this comforting meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions.

Pair with Grated Parmesan Cheese

• Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for a rich, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the pasta.

Add Crusty Bread

• Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. This adds texture and makes for a satisfying meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top your dish with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil. The freshness adds a pop of color and enhances flavor.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Present portions in individual bowls for a more elegant dining experience. This also helps keep the pasta warm longer.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach

To ensure your creamy chicken pasta turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality chicken breast and fresh spinach for the best flavor.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your pasta just until al dente, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
• Season Generously: Don’t forget to season each layer—chicken, broth, and cream—to build depth of flavor.
• Adjust Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add extra broth or cream to reach your desired consistency.
• Incorporate Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish, balancing out its richness beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach

Choosing the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to serve alongside creamy chicken pasta.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil, salt, and pepper brings a healthy crunch to your table.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while being easy to prepare.

4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offers a light, flavorful side that pairs well with pasta dishes.

5. Herb Couscous
   Fluffy couscous seasoned with herbs is quick to make and complements the flavors of chicken pasta nicely.

6. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that everyone will love.

7. Mixed Green Salad
   A simple salad with mixed greens dressed lightly will cleanse the palate between bites of creamy pasta.

8. Grilled Asparagus
   Grilled asparagus spears seasoned with lemon zest add a gourmet touch while maintaining simplicity in preparation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken and pasta can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper to taste at each stage of cooking.
• Overcooking Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions closely for al dente texture.
• Skipping the Sauté: Failing to sauté garlic and chicken can result in less flavor. Always take time to brown these ingredients well.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor ingredients affect the dish’s overall taste. Choose fresh spinach and high-quality chicken broth for best results.
• Neglecting Leftovers: Leaving leftovers unrefrigerated can lead to spoilage. Store any uneaten pasta in airtight containers promptly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high in 1-minute increments until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or cream and warm over low heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best pasta for Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach?
Any short pasta works well, but penne or rotini holds the sauce nicely.

Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Yes, turkey or diced beef can be used as alternatives for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this recipe lighter?
You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for fewer calories without sacrificing too much creaminess.

What can I serve alongside this dish?
Fresh salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with creamy chicken pasta for a complete meal.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace chicken with mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Bacon and Spinach is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures. It’s versatile enough to customize with your choice of proteins or vegetables. Give it a try, and savor the deliciousness!

Print

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Indulge in our Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach, a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This one-pot recipe features tender chicken enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, complemented by fresh spinach and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. With its delightful blend of flavors and minimal cleanup, this dish will leave your family and friends impressed and satisfied.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups uncooked penne pasta (or any short pasta)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with salt and pepper, cooking until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Stir in heavy cream and uncooked pasta along with paprika and dried Italian herbs. Cover the skillet and cook according to package instructions (10-12 minutes), stirring occasionally.
4. Once the pasta is cooked through, stir in chopped spinach until wilted (about 2 minutes). Return cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
5. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving warm.

• Author: Stephanie
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or beef for variety. Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition. For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half.