Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe with Crunchy Bacon

Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe with Crunchy Bacon. This dish combines tender chicken breast, al dente pasta, and a luscious garlic cream sauce, all topped with crispy bacon for an irresistible texture. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• #12 oz (340g) fettuccine or penne pasta
• #Salt for boiling water

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• #2 tbsp olive oil
• #4 cloves garlic, minced
• #1 cup heavy cream
• #1 cup chicken broth
• #1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• #Salt and pepper to taste
• #1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
• #Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Chicken:

• #2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• #Salt and pepper to taste
• #1/2 tsp garlic powder
• #1/2 tsp paprika
• #2 tbsp olive oil

For the Bacon:

• #6 slices of bacon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water for later. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

3. While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
4. In the same skillet used for the bacon, add 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

5. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tbsp of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if using.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

8. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing until well coated. Slice the chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
9. Finish by sprinkling the crumbled bacon and freshly chopped parsley over the dish. Serve immediately.

Cooking Tips

• #Choosing the Right Pasta: Fettuccine and penne are great choices for this creamy sauce, but feel free to use your favorite pasta.
• #Bacon Alternatives: If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon or pancetta can be used instead of traditional bacon.
• #Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian alternative.
• #Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth or cream.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this creamy garlic chicken pasta with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, complements the dish beautifully, enhancing the creamy flavors.

Variations

For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the garlic sauce. If you’re a fan of vegetables, consider adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas for extra color and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta Recipe with Crunchy Bacon is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a comforting and luxurious meal that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to get creative with ingredients and make this dish your own!

For more culinary inspiration, check out our other recipes on pasta dishes and creamy sauces. If you enjoyed this recipe, consider subscribing to our newsletter for more delicious ideas sent straight to your inbox. Happy cooking!