Introduction:
Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta – just the name can send one into an irresistible dream of flavors. Imagine succulent chicken pieces, crispy bacon, all combined in a velvety sauce, and held together by perfectly al dente pasta. This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It embodies comfort, warmth, and sophistication all in one bite. What makes this recipe stand out is its balance of textures and flavors. And if you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the time. Why? Because we’re about to share a simple yet decadent version of this dish that’ll make you the star of any dinner party.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz. penne pasta (or your choice of pasta)
- 6 strips of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium-sized onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for added heat)
Directions:
- Begin by boiling the pasta in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken turns golden brown and is cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy. Remove excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the skillet.
- Add onions and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until onions turn translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth, and let it simmer for a couple of minutes, scraping the delicious bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Reduce the heat, and add the heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and (if using) red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat the chicken in the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes:
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half and half or a milk alternative.
- You can replace the bacon with turkey bacon or even smoked salmon for a twist.
- Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can be used in place of regular pasta.
- For an extra touch of green, consider adding spinach or broccoli.
FAQ:
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While penne is recommended, feel free to use spaghetti, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice.
Q: What side dish pairs well with this pasta?
A: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables works great.
Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to retain the creaminess.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Sure! Skip the chicken and bacon. Consider adding mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor.
There you have it, a scrumptious dish that promises not only a feast for your taste buds but also a delightful experience in the kitchen. Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta is not just food; it’s emotion, comfort, and luxury, all packed into one dish. Give it a try, and let the flavors speak for themselves.