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Chicken Bacon Pasta

This chicken bacon pasta recipe is creamy, savory, and packed with comforting flavors. It combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and pasta in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce for an easy dinner the whole family will love. This recipe is ready in about 35 minutes and is perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 6 slices bacon chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
  3. Add the chicken to the skillet and season with the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Melt the butter, then stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly.
  6. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, then stir in the heavy cream. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
  7. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
  8. Return the cooked chicken and crispy bacon to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
  9. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine are great alternatives to penne.
  • Add spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra vegetables.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk or chicken broth to keep the sauce creamy.