Creamy Bacon Chicken Pasta with a Cream Cheese Twist

For a meal that combines comfort, indulgence, and simplicity, look no further than Creamy Bacon Chicken Pasta with a Cream Cheese Twist. This recipe brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and pasta in a rich, creamy sauce with a unique twist from cream cheese. It’s a dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant weekend meal, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will make every bite irresistible.

Ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken, diced (grilled or rotisserie chicken works well)
8 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your choice)
6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Bacon and Chicken:

In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble into pieces and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil if needed and cook the diced chicken until heated through and slightly golden. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Add the cream cheese to the skillet and whisk until it is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and dried Italian seasoning. Continue to cook until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Ingredients:

Return the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated with the creamy sauce.
Serve:

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve the pasta hot, and enjoy with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success:
For Extra Flavor: Consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Make it a Meal: Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Why This Recipe Works:
Creamy Bacon Chicken Pasta with a Cream Cheese Twist is a perfect blend of savory, creamy, and indulgent flavors. The cream cheese adds a unique tang and extra creaminess to the sauce, which pairs beautifully with the crispy bacon and tender chicken. The Parmesan cheese further enriches the sauce, making it both luscious and satisfying.

This recipe is designed to be both easy and impressive. The use of cream cheese provides a creamy texture that’s a step up from traditional Alfredo sauces, while the bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or additional seasonings.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special dish to impress guests, Creamy Bacon Chicken Pasta with a Cream Cheese Twist delivers on both taste and ease. It’s a comforting meal that’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your culinary repertoire.