This creamy chicken and bacon pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet corn come together in a rich sauce that’s hard to resist.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a dish that combines comfort food with a bit of sweetness? I love to sprinkle some extra cheese on top for a little boost—perfect for cozy dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using penne or fusilli for their great sauce-holding ability. If you have gluten-free needs, you can swap in gluten-free pasta without losing much in terms of flavor or texture.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here, but you could also use thighs for extra juiciness. If you’re pressed for time, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut!
Bacon: I like thick-cut bacon for added flavor, but turkey bacon is a lighter option if you want to reduce fat. Ensure to cook it until crispy for the best texture.
Heavy cream: This is key to making the sauce creamy, but if you’re looking for a lighter version, half-and-half or even coconut cream can work as a substitute.
Sweet Corn: Whether using fresh or frozen corn, both add sweetness and pop. You can also use canned corn, just be sure to drain it well to avoid extra liquid in your sauce.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Getting that creamy texture right is crucial for this dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by sautéing your onions and garlic in the leftover bacon fat—it adds a ton of flavor!
- When combining the cream and chicken broth, stir continuously to blend everything smoothly and avoid curdling.
- Let it simmer gently; too much heat can cause the cream to break, which ruins the smoothness. Keep it low and slow for the best results.
- Finally, adding the Parmesan cheese gives it that rich flavor, so stir until it fully melts into the sauce.
And there you have it! Following these tips will help you create a wonderfully creamy pasta dish that everyone will love.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Sweet Corn
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 300g (10 oz) pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
For the Main Dish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 150g (5 oz) bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken and bacon pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 15 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the sauce, plus 15 minutes for sautéing and mixing everything together. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with a bit of salt and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it’s golden brown and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon. Fry it until it becomes crispy. Once crispy, transfer the bacon onto a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess fat.
4. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Next, add the finely chopped onion back into the skillet with any remaining bacon fat. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for about 1 minute, just until fragrant.
5. Add the Sweet Corn:
Stir in the sweet corn kernels and cook them with the onion and garlic for another 2-3 minutes, just until they are warmed through.
6. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese and dried thyme (or Italian seasoning). Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken and crispy bacon to the skillet. Mix well, making sure everything is coated in the creamy sauce. Finally, add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly covered with the sauce.
8. Season and Garnish:
Give your dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Just before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Sweet Corn—it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne or fusilli are great for holding onto the sauce, you can use any pasta shape you like. Spaghetti or bowtie pasta would also work well in this dish.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be used instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick and creamy, so you might want to add an extra splash of cheese to maintain a rich flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy chicken and bacon pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to help restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the onions for added flavor and nutrition.
