Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delightful combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon that makes it the ultimate comfort food. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you crave something hearty and satisfying. The rich cream cheese sauce melds beautifully with the savory flavors of bacon and chicken, creating a dish that will be a hit with everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This dish takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy: The cream cheese creates a luscious sauce that envelops the pasta, ensuring every bite is delicious.
- Flavorful Ingredients: With crispy bacon and seasoned chicken, this recipe is packed with flavor.
- Versatile Dish: You can customize this pasta by adding vegetables or using different types of pasta to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors in this dish.
Tools and Preparation
To make the Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe successfully, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Allows you to cook the bacon and chicken evenly while combining all ingredients seamlessly.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures you have enough space to cook your pasta perfectly al dente without overcrowding.
- Cutting board & knife: Essential for safely chopping ingredients like chicken and bacon before cooking.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe:
Proteins
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
Dairy Products
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pantry Staples
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel to drain. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil if needed and sauté the chicken pieces. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Boil the Pasta
While cooking the chicken:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet used for chicken:
1. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add softened cream cheese, stirring until it starts to melt.
3. Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream while whisking until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning; let simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened slightly.
- Return cooked chicken and bacon back into skillet; stir well.
Step 6: Toss with Pasta
Gently fold in cooked pasta, tossing everything together until well coated in creamy sauce.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from heat; garnish with fresh parsley before serving immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
This Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy every creamy bite!
How to Serve Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Family-style Serving
- Serve the pasta directly from the skillet for a casual, family-style meal. This allows everyone to help themselves and encourages a warm atmosphere.
Individual Bowls
- Dish out portions into individual bowls for a more elegant presentation. Top each bowl with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley for added flavor and color.
With Garlic Bread
- Pair the pasta with warm garlic bread. The crunchy texture complements the creamy pasta perfectly, making it a satisfying combination.
Salad on the Side
- Offer a fresh green salad alongside the pasta. A simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
Wine Pairing
- Consider serving with a chilled white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. The acidity in these wines enhances the creamy flavors of the pasta.
Leftover Lunches
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for a delicious lunch option. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.
How to Perfect Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe
To make your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta even better, consider these helpful tips:
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and high-quality cream cheese significantly enhance flavor and texture.
- Cook bacon until crispy: Ensuring your bacon is crispy adds crunch and depth to every bite of pasta.
- Don’t overcook pasta: Cook pasta al dente so it maintains its structure when mixed with the creamy sauce.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to suit your preference before serving.
- Let sauce simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer helps develop flavors, making it richer and more delicious.
- Garnish generously: Adding fresh parsley at the end not only brightens the dish but also adds a lovely touch of freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe
Serving side dishes alongside your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:
Garlic Bread
A classic choice that pairs well with any pasta dish; perfect for soaking up creamy sauces.Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese offers a refreshing contrast.Steamed Broccoli
Lightly steamed broccoli adds both color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the pasta.Roasted Asparagus
Tender roasted asparagus seasoned with olive oil and lemon zest provides an elegant touch to your meal.Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze create a vibrant side that complements Italian flavors beautifully.Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that cuts through the creaminess of the pasta.Grilled Vegetables
Seasonal grilled veggies bring smokiness and are an excellent way to incorporate more nutrients into your dinner table.Stuffed Mushrooms
These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs make for an impressive appetizer or side dish option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing the Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe, it’s easy to make some common missteps. Here’s what to watch for:
Skipping Ingredient Prep: Failing to prepare your ingredients in advance can slow down your cooking process. Make sure all ingredients are measured and ready to go before starting.
Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always follow the package instructions and taste test for al dente.
Not Tasting as You Cook: Forgetting to taste can result in bland flavors. Remember to season and adjust according to your preference throughout the cooking process.
Using Cold Cream Cheese: Starting with cold cream cheese can make it hard to melt into a smooth sauce. Always soften the cream cheese beforehand for best results.
Neglecting Garnishes: Skipping garnishes like fresh parsley may rob your dish of visual appeal and flavor depth. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate your dish significantly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat on low heat while stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus keyphrase for this recipe?
The focus keyphrase is Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe, which describes this delicious dish perfectly.
Can I substitute any ingredients in the Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Yes! You can use different types of pasta or replace heavy cream with milk for a lighter option. Feel free to customize based on your dietary needs!
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total prep time is about 10 minutes, with an additional 25 minutes of cook time, making it great for quick weeknight dinners.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe stores well, making it ideal for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors that are sure to please everyone at your table. It’s creamy, comforting, and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Give it a try, and enjoy a meal that brings joy and satisfaction!
Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon. This delightful dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or any time you crave something hearty and satisfying. In just 35 minutes, you can prepare a rich and flavorful meal that everyone will love. The luscious cream cheese sauce perfectly envelops the pasta, ensuring each bite is deliciously indulgent. Customize this versatile recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different pasta types to suit your taste. Quick to prepare and family-friendly, this dish will surely become a staple in your household.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 6 slices bacon
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté chicken in the same skillet until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente; drain.
- In the skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant, then add cream cheese and stir until melted.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth and cream until smooth. Add Parmesan and Italian seasoning; simmer.
- Stir in chicken and bacon, then fold in the cooked pasta until well coated.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
