Are you in search of a comforting and indulgent meal that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than our mouthwatering Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta! This irresistible dish combines succulent chicken, crispy bacon, and tender fettuccine pasta, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. With just the right balance of savory and creamy goodness, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So let’s dive into the details and learn how to create this culinary masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 10 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/2 inch slices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 stick of butter
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, chopped into small strips
- 4 large cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions:
Cooking the Bacon and Chicken:
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the butter to the skillet and melt it over medium-high heat. Once melted, add the chopped chicken breast strips and minced garlic. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and is cooked through.
Preparing the Pasta:
- While the chicken is cooking, boil the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Making the Creamy Sauce:
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour beef broth into the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring continuously.
- Gradually add the finely grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combining Everything:
- In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Gradually add the slurry to the sauce, stirring continuously, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and add the cooked fettuccine pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve the Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta hot, and enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Adding Vegetables: For an extra burst of flavor and nutrition, consider adding your favorite vegetables to the dish. Options like spinach, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or broccoli work well.
- Spicing it Up: Feel free to add additional herbs and spices to enhance the flavor profile of the dish. Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or dried basil are excellent choices.
- Using Different Pasta: While fettuccine is traditional for this recipe, you can use other pasta varieties such as penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon? A: Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative to traditional bacon. However, keep in mind that it may result in a slightly different flavor and texture.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components of the dish in advance and assemble them just before serving. Store the cooked bacon, chicken, and pasta separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast? A: Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breast for a richer and more flavorful dish.
Q: How can I make this dish gluten-free? A: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that all other ingredients, such as the beef broth and cornstarch, are certified gluten-free.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Option: To make a keto-friendly version of this dish, substitute the fettuccine pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. Use heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for the sauce, and omit the cornstarch.
- Low-Carb Variation: Reduce the amount of pasta used in the recipe or omit it altogether. Increase the quantity of chicken and bacon to make the dish more protein-rich.
In conclusion, our Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is a winner every time. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a comforting and satisfying meal tonight!
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of our Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta—a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. With its simple preparation and irresistible taste, it’s the perfect way to elevate your dinner game and satisfy your cravings for comfort food. So go ahead, give it a try, and prepare to be amazed by the deliciousness of this delightful dish!
Experience the ultimate comfort food with our Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta recipe! If you have any questions or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy cooking
