Creamy Weeknight Penne with Chicken, Bacon, Mushrooms & Melted Cheese Bliss
Description
This creamy penne pasta is pure comfort in a bowl. Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and savory mushrooms are tossed in a rich, velvety cream sauce and finished with melted cheese that clings to every bite. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and—best of all—ready fast enough for a busy weeknight while still feeling restaurant-worthy.
Time Required
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4)
300 g penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
120 g bacon, chopped
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cooking cream or heavy cream
½ cup milk (optional, for lighter sauce)
¾ cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
½ tsp Italian seasoning or dried oregano
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cook the Bacon
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add bacon and cook until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.
Cook the Chicken
Add olive oil or butter if needed. Add chicken pieces, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Mushrooms
In the same pan, add mushrooms and cook until soft and lightly browned, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower heat to medium-low. Pour in cream (and milk if using). Stir in Italian seasoning, black pepper, and chili flakes. Simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
Add the Cheese
Stir in mozzarella (or cheddar) and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
Combine Everything
Add cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon back to the pan. Toss well. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.
Finish & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh herbs and extra cheese if desired. Serve hot and creamy.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread
Great with a chilled lemon drink or light sparkling water
Questions & Answers
Q: Can I make this without bacon?
Yes! Simply skip the bacon and use olive oil for richness.
Q: What cheese works best?
Mozzarella for meltiness, cheddar for sharp flavor, or a mix of both. Parmesan adds depth.
Q: Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely. Add cooked chicken when you combine everything—no need to re-cook.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk.
Q: Can I make it spicy?
Yes! Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.