Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon
This Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon is a rich, comforting dish packed with smoky bacon, tender chicken, and sweet corn in a velvety garlic Parmesan sauce. The combination of flavors makes it the perfect weeknight meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni)
1 tbsp salt (for boiling water)
For the Sauce:
6 slices bacon, chopped
2 chicken breasts, diced
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan chees
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water for the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon & Chicken
1. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
2. Season chicken with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. In the same skillet, cook chicken in the bacon grease for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
1. Put olive oil and garlic to the skillet, sauteing for 30 seconds.
2. Stir in corn and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
4. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until thickened
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
1. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet.
2. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed for a creamier texture.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Preparation Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Notes & Tips:
Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or swap half the cream for Greek yogurt.
Spice It Up: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Extra Flavor: Stir in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth.
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 620
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 28g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g
This Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon is the perfect balance of smoky, creamy, and savory flavors in every bite. Enjoy!