This Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne is a delicious and hearty dish perfect for any night of the week. The combination of flavors from the chicken, bacon, and fresh spinach creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings. For a refreshing side, consider trying a light salad alongside this pasta. You may also find Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad Cucumber Boats 2 useful.
Why Make This Recipe
- It’s quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes.
- The blend of creamy sauce, chicken, and bacon is irresistible.
- It’s packed with nutrients, thanks to the fresh spinach.
- This dish is a great way to enjoy pasta with a tasty twist.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne
This recipe involves cooking penne pasta and sautéing chicken and bacon. After that, fresh spinach and a creamy Parmesan sauce tie everything together. Finally, enjoy a comforting meal that warms the soul.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced chicken and cook until golden and cooked through. Add garlic and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked penne and crispy bacon to the skillet, tossing to combine. Serve warm.
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne
This dish is best served warm. Consider plating it with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top. A side of garlic bread or a light bacon ranch chicken salad can complement your meal nicely.
How to Store Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Tips to Make Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne
- Use fresh spinach for better flavor.
- Try to cook the bacon until crispy for added texture.
- Don’t skip on the seasoning; it enhances the dish significantly.
- Consider adding some cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and flavor.
Variations
- Substitute the penne with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.
- For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Include other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for variety.
FAQs
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble them when ready.
- What can I use instead of heavy cream? You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Is this recipe freezer-friendly? Yes, you can freeze it, but the texture may change slightly when reheated.
Conclusion
This Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne is a delightful meal that combines creamy goodness with savory flavors. For more pasta inspiration, check out Chicken Bacon Spinach Pasta or explore the recipe for Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne to discover even more delicious variations.
