Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Creamy Recipe You’ll Love

Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and tender chicken, all enveloped in perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household, and I can’t wait to share it with you! The combination of savory ingredients creates a rich and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.

Originating from the heart of Italian-American cuisine, this dish has evolved over the years, incorporating elements that appeal to a wide range of palates. People love Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta not only for its incredible taste but also for its delightful texture—each bite offers a creamy, cheesy goodness paired with the crunch of bacon. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces of pasta (penne or rotini work great)
• 6 slices of bacon
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, take your chicken breasts and season them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning on both sides. This will give the chicken a nice flavor base. 2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a beautiful color to the chicken. 3. Once the chicken is browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and juicy. 4. After baking, remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken even more tender.

Cooking the Bacon

5. While the chicken is baking, it’s time to cook the bacon. In a separate skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. 6. Once the bacon has cooled, chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set it aside for later use. The crispy bacon will add a delightful crunch to our pasta dish.

Preparing the Pasta

7. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 8. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest. Set the drained pasta aside. The reserved pasta water will help to create a creamy sauce later on.

Making the Sauce

9. In the same skillet used for the bacon, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. 10. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will create a rich and creamy base for our sauce. 11. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. 12. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste. If you want to enhance the flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Combining Everything

13. Now it’s time to bring everything together! Slice the baked chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces and add it to the skillet with the cheese sauce. 14. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, along with the chopped bacon. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce and all ingredients are evenly distributed. 15. If the pasta seems dry, add more of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you achieve the desired creaminess.

Serving the Dish

16. Once everything is combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the cheesy bacon chicken pasta in bowls or on plates. 17. For a finishing touch, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. You can also add extra cheese if you’re feeling indulgent! 18. Enjoy your delicious cheesy bacon chicken pasta with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. This dish is perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Storage Tips

19. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To re

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight dinner game. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese sauce creates a dish that is not only comforting but also bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this delightful pasta with a fresh side salad or some garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, or even swapping out the chicken for shrimp or a plant-based protein for a different twist. I encourage you to give this Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta a try and make it your own! Once you’ve whipped it up, I would love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your creation. Let’s spread the love for this delicious dish together! Happy cooking! Print