Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and vibrant spinach all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this one-pot meal packs flavor and convenience. The ease of preparation makes it suitable for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike, while its comforting taste will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy easy cleanup with everything cooked in just one pot.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, bacon, and cream creates an irresistible sauce.
• Quick to Prepare: This dish can be on your table in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap ingredients or add veggies to suit your taste.
• Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy chicken bacon penne with spinach, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these items ready will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking pasta and sauce together.
• Sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of chicken and vegetables.

Ingredients

Pasta

• 1 lb penne pasta

Protein

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped

Vegetables

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Sauce Components

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder

How to Make Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by heating the large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken

In the same pot, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper as desired. Cook until browned on all sides.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Spinach

Add minced garlic to the pot with the chicken. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then stir in the chopped spinach until wilted.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth along with heavy cream. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer before adding cooked penne pasta and reserved bacon back into the pot.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasoning

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top along with garlic powder. Mix gently until cheese is melted and everything is well combined.

Step 6: Serve

Taste for seasoning adjustments before serving hot. Enjoy your delicious creamy chicken bacon penne with spinach!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Serving Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach can elevate your dining experience. This dish is rich and flavorful, making it perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy sauce, enhancing every bite of the penne.

Top with Fresh Parmesan

• A sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese gives an extra layer of flavor and richness to this delightful dish.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the heaviness of the pasta, refreshing your palate.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Adding chopped parsley or basil on top before serving brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

To achieve the best results when preparing Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach, follow these helpful tips.

• Cook pasta al dente – This ensures that the penne maintains its texture even after mixing it with the creamy sauce.
• Use fresh spinach – Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and offers a vibrant color and flavor compared to frozen alternatives.
• Sauté bacon until crispy – Crispy bacon adds depth to each bite, providing a satisfying crunch against the creamy sauce.
• Adjust seasoning – Taste as you cook; you may need more salt or pepper depending on your preference.
• Let it rest before serving – Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld together for a richer taste.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Complementing your Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach with the right sides can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and crunchy croutons, pairing well with creamy pasta dishes.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a healthy contrast to the richness of the penne, adding color and nutrients.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a fresh crunch and is great for dipping in any leftover sauce.
4. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – For those who love comfort food, creamy garlic mashed potatoes complement this dish’s flavors perfectly.
5. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil provides a refreshing bite that balances the creamy pasta.
6. Caprese Skewers – These skewers made from mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring freshness that lightens up this hearty meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach, avoiding common mistakes will enhance your dish’s taste and texture.

• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken and pasta can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper as you cook.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking penne too long can make it mushy. Aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using wilted spinach or old chicken can ruin your dish. Always choose fresh ingredients for maximum flavor.
• Ignoring the cooking order: Adding ingredients in the wrong order affects cooking times. Cook bacon first, then chicken, followed by garlic and spinach for optimal results.
• Forgetting to incorporate cheese properly: Adding cheese too early may cause it to clump. Gradually stir in mozzarella at low heat for a creamy finish.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream as needed to retain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach.

Can I use whole wheat penne instead?

Yes, whole wheat penne is a great alternative. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

How can I customize my Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and tastes great even after a few days, making it perfect for meal prep.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs nicely with this creamy pasta dish.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it according to your preferences, making it a perfect choice for any night of the week. Try it out and enjoy the comforting flavors!