Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon

There’s something intrinsically comforting about a big bowl of Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon. It feels like a warm embrace on a chilly evening, wrapping you in its delightful flavors and textures. This dish takes me back to late autumn afternoons when the air turns crisp and the leaves dance down to the ground. My family would gather around the table, laughter echoing against the walls, the savory aroma of bacon and garlic swirling through the air. Ah, those were the days!

This creamy creation is the perfect easy weeknight dinner that comes together in no time, making it a savior for any busy person looking to provide a cozy yet delightful meal. So, grab a spoon and get ready to dive into this irresistible dish! This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Whip this dish up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
  • Family-Friendly: The creamy textures and savory flavors will please kiddos and adults alike.
  • Comfort Food Heaven: If you’re craving something heavenly and satisfying, this recipe is your answer.
  • Versatile Ingredients: You can use fresh, canned, or frozen corn depending on what you have at home.
  • Ultimate Creaminess: The combination of heavy cream and parmesan cheese ensures a rich and velvety sauce.

What You’ll Need

To create this amazing Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon, gather these simple ingredients:

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
  • 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon

Let’s make it together! Follow these simple steps to create your new favorite meal:

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the corn and cooked chicken to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to combine, allowing all the flavors to meld.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adding more if necessary for flavor.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with crispy turkey bacon and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired.

Variations & Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative! Here are some fun ways to customize this dish:

  • Add Veggies: Throw in some spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and a pop of color.
  • Zesty Lemon Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving to elevate the flavors with a bright zest.
  • Spicy Kick: Stir in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños if you’re craving a little heat.
  • Mushroom Magic: Sauté some sliced mushrooms before adding the chicken for an earthy, rich flavor.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

To ensure your Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon turns out delicious every time, here are my best kitchen secrets:

  • Make-Ahead: You can cook the turkey bacon and chicken ahead of time, making it super quick to assemble on busy nights.
  • Storage Suggestions: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some sauce.
  • Ingredient Swaps: Have leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken? Use that instead! It saves time and adds wonderful flavor.
  • Cooking Tip: When sautéing garlic, keep an eye on it to prevent burning, which can make it taste bitter.

Nutrition Information per Serving

Here’s what’s inside this delicious meal:

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 480
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Sodium: 800mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?

Absolutely! You can prepare the bacon and chicken in advance, just combine everything and heat it up right before serving.

Can I use different ingredients?

Yes! Feel free to swap the chicken out for shrimp, or even make it vegetarian with sautéed mushrooms and additional veggies.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How long does it last?

When stored properly, this dish lasts about 3 days in the refrigerator.

A Cozy Closing Note

This Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon is not just a recipe; it embodies the joy of togetherness around the dinner table. It’s a reminder that food has the power to bring people together, creating memories that linger long after the plates are cleared. Save this delightful dish to your dinner inspiration board so it’s ready when you need a cozy treat!

Happy cooking, my friends!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon


  • Author: Chef Emma
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Poultry
Save Recipe

Description

A comforting bowl of creamy pasta featuring chicken and turkey bacon, perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
  • 2 cups corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  3. Add the olive oil and minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the corn and cooked chicken to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes until heated through.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to combine, allowing all the flavors to meld.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adding more if necessary for flavor.
  8. Serve immediately, garnished with crispy turkey bacon and a sprinkle of chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: creamy pasta, chicken pasta, quick dinner, comfort food, family friendly

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating