Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta

This Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is packed with savory goodness and comes together in under 30 minutes. The smoky bacon, juicy chicken, and aromatic seasonings make it a crowd-pleasing favorite!

Ingredients

• 6 slices smoked bacon, cut into ½-inch diced pieces (divided: ¼ cup reserved for garnish, remainder for cooking)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (approximately 1 pound), cut into 1-inch cubes
• ½ cup chopped yellow onion
• ½ teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 ounces pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve ¼ cup of the cooked bacon for garnish. Leave the remaining bacon and drippings in the skillet for cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the cubed chicken to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Season with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for 2–3 minutes, until softened. If needed, add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

1. While preparing the sauce, cook the pasta according to package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Transfer the pasta to serving bowls. Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon and chopped fresh parsley over the top for added flavor and presentation.
2. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, savory bite!

Tips for Success

• Bacon Substitution: For a lighter option, use turkey bacon or omit the bacon entirely and sauté the chicken in olive oil.
• Cheese Variations: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a sharper flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Italian Chicken Pasta is a decadent yet simple dish that brings together all the best flavors—smoky bacon, tender chicken, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. The combination of textures and tastes creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Dive into this creamy, comforting creation and savor every bite!