Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe -

There’s something magical about the combination of pasta, cream, chicken, and bacon that just speaks to the soul. Today, I’m sharing my favorite recipe for a restaurant-worthy Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta that’s guaranteed to become your new go-to comfort meal.

You know those evenings when you’re craving something incredibly satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? This creamy chicken and bacon pasta is your answer. As someone who’s tested countless pasta recipes, I can tell you this one hits all the right notes – it’s creamy, savory, and surprisingly simple to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in under 30 minutes
Uses simple, everyday ingredients
Restaurant-quality results at home
Perfect balance of flavors
Silky smooth sauce that clings to every strand of pasta

The Secret to Perfect Creamy Pasta

Here’s something many home cooks don’t realize: the magic of this dish lies in one humble ingredient – pasta water. That cloudy, starchy water you usually drain away? It’s liquid gold for creating the silkiest sauce you’ve ever tasted. I learned this trick during a cooking class in Italy, and it’s been a game-changer for my pasta dishes ever since.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

6 oz (180g) fettuccine or pasta of choice
5-7 oz (150-200g) bacon, chopped
6 oz (180g) chicken breast
1 tablespoon (30g) butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
3/4 cup (185ml) heavy cream
3/4 cup (185ml) pasta cooking water
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley
Extra parmesan cheese

[Insert image of the sauce being made, showing its creamy texture]

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep Your Pasta Water

Start with a large pot of well-salted water. When people ask me how much salt, I always say it should taste like the sea. This is your first chance to build flavor.
Cook Your Pasta

Boil the pasta for 2 minutes less than package directions
Pro tip: Don’t forget to save that pasta water before draining!

Create Your Flavor Base

Cook the bacon until golden and crispy
Use the same pan to cook seasoned chicken breast
Kitchen hack: Wipe the pan clean if you want a prettier, whiter sauce

Make the Sauce

Sauté garlic and onion in butter until golden
Add cream, pasta water, and parmesan
Let it simmer until slightly thickened

Bring It All Together

Toss pasta in the sauce for about 1.5 minutes
Add bacon and chicken back in
Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water

Common Questions Answered

Can I make this ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep components ahead. Cook your bacon and chicken in advance, but make the sauce fresh when ready to serve.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Fettuccine is traditional, but any long pasta works well. I’ve made this with penne and rigatoni too – just make sure to choose a pasta that can hold onto the creamy sauce.

Can I use pre-grated parmesan?

Fresh is best! Store-bought grated parmesan won’t melt as smoothly. If you must use pre-grated, reduce the amount to 1/4 cup.

Tips for Success

Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: This starchy liquid is crucial for creating a silky sauce that clings to your pasta.
Watch Your Heat: Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent the cream from splitting.
Al Dente is Key: Slightly undercooked pasta will finish perfectly in the sauce.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to customize this recipe! Add mushrooms for an earthier flavor, throw in some peas for color, or spice it up with red pepper flakes. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this creamy pasta with:

A crisp green salad
Garlic bread
A glass of chilled white wine (I recommend Chardonnay)

The Final Touch

Finish your plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra parmesan. These little touches make the difference between a good pasta dish and a great one.

Remember, cooking should be fun and flexible. Don’t stress if you need to adjust ingredients or timing – trust your instincts and taste as you go. That’s what makes cooking such a joy!