Description
Indulge in the irresistible combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh spinach, all enveloped in a creamy, dreamy sauce – welcome to the world of Creamy Chicken Bacon Spinach Pasta! This mouthwatering dish has become a favorite among families and busy cooks alike, thanks to its rich, satisfying flavors and its versatility in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces of pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add the chopped bacon to the skillet and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving some bacon fat in the pan.
- Add spinach and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until spinach is wilted and garlic is fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Whisk until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked chicken, bacon, and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss until everything is evenly coated with sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Notes
- Storing Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess.
- Meal Prep Potential: Cook components separately, store, and combine when ready to eat.
- Customizing Flavors: Experiment with sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg