Indulge in Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon Tonight!

Get ready to indulge in a delightfully creamy, flavor-packed pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite! Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon is a comforting and satisfying meal that combines tender chicken, sweet corn, and crispy bacon in a rich and velvety sauce. This recipe is a mouthwatering blend of textures and tastes that will have you coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

What sets this Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta apart is the perfect balance of ingredients and the way they come together to create a truly irresistible dish. The juicy chicken and fresh corn kernels provide a delightful contrast, while the smoky bacon adds a savory crunch that ties everything together seamlessly. And let’s not forget the creamy, Parmesan-infused sauce that coats each bite, making every forkful an absolute delight.

Table of Contents

Essential Ingredients for Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

• 10 oz bow-tie pasta (or pasta of your choice)
• 1½ lb chicken thighs or breasts (skinless, boneless)
• 1.5 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ tsp salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 Tbsp olive oil (for chicken)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil (for corn)
• 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, frozen or canned, drained)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (for corn)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 8 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
• Fresh herbs (such as thyme, oregano, or marjoram) for garnish

Cooking Instructions for Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Cook the Pasta

First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Season and Cook the Chicken

In a bowl, season the chicken with the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 Tbsp of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s thoroughly cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Sauté the Corn

In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 Tbsp of olive oil and the corn kernels. Season with 1 tsp of smoked paprika and 1 tsp of chili powder. Cook the corn over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s slightly toasted and aromatic, about 5-7 minutes. Remove about half of the corn and set it aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce

To the remaining corn in the skillet, add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Combine and Finish

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta and toss everything together to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Gently stir in the reserved corn kernels.

Add Bacon and Garnish

Finally, stir in the chopped bacon. Garnish the Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon with fresh herbs, such as thyme, oregano, or marjoram. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Perfecting Your Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

To ensure your Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon turns out perfectly, here are a few tips:

• Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to absorb the sauce and become softer as it sits. Aim for al dente texture for the best results.
• Sear the Chicken: Getting a nice sear on the chicken before adding it to the sauce will help lock in the juices and provide a delightful texture contrast.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels to your taste by adding more or less smoked paprika, chili powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: The addition of fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or marjoram will add a burst of flavor and visual appeal to the dish.

Nutritional Information

One serving of Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon contains approximately:

• Calories: 650
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

This dish is a great source of protein from the chicken and provides a balance of carbohydrates from the pasta. The heavy cream and Parmesan cheese contribute to the creamy texture and richness, while the corn and bacon add nutritional value and flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

If you’re looking to mix things up or accommodate dietary restrictions, here are some ideas for variations and substitutions:

Healthier Options

• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: Swap out the regular pasta for a whole wheat or gluten-free alternative to boost the fiber and nutrient content.
• Substitute Greek Yogurt: Replace the heavy cream with plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed sauce.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to increase the veggie content.

Flavor Variations

• Spicy Twist: For a kick of heat, add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Herb-Infused: Try different fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or rosemary to change up the flavor profile.
• Cheese Options: Swap out the Parmesan for crumbled feta, shredded cheddar, or a blend of cheeses.

Protein Swaps

• Shrimp: Replace the chicken with peeled and deveined shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Turkey: Use ground turkey or diced turkey breast in place of the chicken.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with cubed or crumbled tofu.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Mozzarella Chicken Linguine with Garlic Cajun Butter
• Creamy Chicken Bacon Spinach Pasta
• Creamy Garlic Mushroom and Bacon Pasta

FAQs About Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

How can I make my Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta spicier?

To add some heat to your Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta, you can incorporate crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the chicken. Another option is to experiment with spicy seasonings like cayenne pepper or hot sauce mixed into the cream sauce. Adjust the amount to your heat preference and remember to taste as you go to achieve the desired spice level.

Can I make this dish using a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can definitely use different types of pasta for this recipe! While bow-tie pasta (farfalle) is recommended for its shape and texture, other options like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti can work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times based on the pasta type you choose to ensure it reaches al dente perfection.

What is a good way to ensure the chicken stays moist while cooking?

To keep your chicken moist while cooking, consider marinating it beforehand in olive oil, lemon juice, and seasonings for at least 30 minutes. Additionally, avoid overcooking the chicken by monitoring its internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (75°C). Cooking on medium heat and letting the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing can also help retain moisture.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with other proteins such as shrimp, turkey, or even a plant-based alternative like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly—shrimp will cook much faster than chicken, while tofu may need a bit more time to absorb flavors. Each protein will impart a different taste and texture, offering a delightful twist to the dish.

Conclusion

Get ready to indulge in a truly crave-worthy pasta dish with this Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon. The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn, and crispy bacon in a rich and velvety sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. So grab your fork and dive into a world of creamy, flavorful goodness!

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