Introduction
This Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Sweet peppers add a vibrant crunch, while fresh parsley brightens the creamy, cheesy sauce. The addition of crispy bacon and tender chicken makes this a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium sweet bell pepper, diced (red, yellow, or orange)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
- In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the diced sweet bell pepper and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce
- Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape works well in this dish. Penne, fettuccine, and rigatoni are great options.
2. Can I make this dish lighter?
For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms would be excellent additions.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Sweet Pepper and Parsley is a satisfying and delicious dish that’s easy to prepare. Its creamy, savory sauce and the combination of textures and flavors make it a standout meal. Enjoy!