Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Recipe

This Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy, and indulgent dish packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a velvety cream cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you’re craving comfort food, this easy one-pan recipe is ready in under 30 minutes and guaranteed to satisfy your pasta cravings!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory bacon flavor
• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
• Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
• One-pot meal for easy cleanup
• Customizable with vegetables or your favorite pasta shape

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• Pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Cream cheese, softened
• Heavy cream or milk
• Chicken broth (low-sodium)
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Onion, finely diced
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, leaving some bacon grease in the pan.
3. Sauté the chicken: Add diced chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add olive oil (if needed), sauté diced onion and garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
5. Add cheese and combine: Stir in Parmesan cheese, cooked chicken, bacon, and pasta. Toss until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, basil, or extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Bacon Chicken Pasta: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Vegetable Boost: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrition.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce, or microwave until heated through.
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh?

Yes, using pre-cooked shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for this recipe.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

Penne, fettuccine, or rotini are great choices because they hold onto the creamy sauce well.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. You can add a bit more cream cheese to help thicken it.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese, milk substitutes, and vegan Parmesan cheese.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add a splash of chicken broth or milk if the sauce thickens too much while reheating.

What herbs pair well with this pasta?

Basil, thyme, or oregano add fresh flavor and complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Can I add mushrooms to the dish?

Yes, sauté mushrooms with the onions and garlic for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

This Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta is the perfect creamy, cheesy comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. The combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and rich cream cheese sauce creates a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete, satisfying meal!

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