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The foundation of any great recipe lies in its ingredients. If you're ready to embark on this culinary journey, let's take a closer look at what you'll need to create this creamy chicken and bacon pasta.

Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this creamy chicken and bacon pasta recipe. Combining crispy bacon and tender chicken in a rich, velvety cream sauce, this dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Learn how to select the best ingredients, prepare the pasta, and create a deliciously satisfying meal that will impress your family and guests. With easy steps and tasty variations, cooking this classic dish is a breeze. Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Ingredients
  

12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or your preferred pasta

4 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cubed

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 small onion, diced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup baby spinach (optional)

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

    Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced bacon. Cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Leave the bacon fat in the skillet.

      Sear the Chicken: Season the cubed chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In the same skillet with the bacon fat, increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken. Sear on all sides until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside with the bacon.

        Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

          Make the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3-5 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.

            Combine Ingredients: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If using, add the baby spinach and optional Italian seasoning, mixing until the spinach wilts and is well combined.

              Add Pasta and Chicken: Gently fold in the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon into the sauce, ensuring everything is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is achieved.

                Serve: Plate the creamy chicken and bacon pasta, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy your meal!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | 4 servings