Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Sweet Pepper and Parsley: A Flavorful Delight!
Introduction: The Ultimate Comfort Food
If you’re looking for a rich, creamy, and flavorful pasta dish, this Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Sweet Pepper and Parsley is a must-try! It’s a perfect balance of smoky bacon, tender chicken, and a velvety cream sauce that coats every bite. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this dish will never disappoint.
This pasta recipe is:
✔️ Easy to make – Ready in just 30 minutes
✔️ Rich & creamy – A satisfying comfort food
✔️ Packed with flavor – Bacon, garlic, and parmesan make it irresistible
✔️ Perfect for meal prep – Reheats beautifully
Let’s dive into this restaurant-quality creamy pasta dish that you can make at home!
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Ingredients: What You’ll Need
For the Chicken & Bacon
✔️ 450g (1 lb) boneless chicken thighs, diced
✔️ 6 strips of bacon, chopped
✔️ 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
✔️ 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
✔️ ½ tsp black pepper
✔️ 1 tsp smoked paprika (adds a smoky kick)
For the Creamy Sauce
✔️ 3 cloves garlic, minced
✔️ 1 sweet red bell pepper, sliced
✔️ 1 ½ cups (375ml) heavy cream
✔️ ½ cup (125ml) chicken broth
✔️ 1 tsp Italian seasoning
✔️ ½ cup (50g) parmesan cheese, grated
✔️ 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Pasta
✔️ 250g (8 oz) penne pasta (or any pasta of choice)
✔️ Water & salt for boiling
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Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 10 minutes or until al dente).
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Heat a large pan over medium heat.
Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy (5 minutes).
Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In the same pan, leave about 1 tbsp of bacon fat and add 2 tbsp of olive oil.
Add the diced chicken, season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In the same pan, add minced garlic and sliced sweet bell pepper. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well.
Add Italian seasoning and grated parmesan. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked pasta, crispy bacon, and chicken to the pan.
Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
Simmer for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra parmesan before serving.
Enjoy your creamy, indulgent pasta dish!
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Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken & Bacon Pasta
💡 Use freshly grated parmesan – It melts better and enhances flavor.
💡 Cook pasta al dente – Slightly firm pasta absorbs the sauce better.
💡 Don’t overcook the sauce – Let it thicken slightly but not too much, or it will dry out.
💡 Add more veggies – Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes work great.
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Variations to Try
1. Spicy Chicken & Bacon Pasta 🌶️
Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.
2. Low-Carb Keto Version 🥑
Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Use cream cheese instead of heavy cream for a thicker sauce.
3. Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Style 🧀
Add ½ cup mozzarella cheese for an extra cheesy, stretchy texture.
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Serving Suggestions: What to Pair This With
This creamy pasta pairs perfectly with:
✔️ Garlic bread – Perfect for scooping up the sauce.
✔️ Side salad – A fresh contrast to the rich pasta.
✔️ Roasted vegetables – Like asparagus or broccoli.
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Storage & Reheating Tips
Want to make this ahead? Here’s how:
To Store:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Microwave: Heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~600 kcal
Carbs: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 35g
This dish is rich, satisfying, and packed with protein!
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Conclusion: The Best Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Sweet Pepper and Parsley is the ultimate comfort food. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with flavor – the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table!
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