Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach is a delightful, one-pot meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With its rich creaminess and nutritious spinach, this dish is perfect for family dinners, special gatherings, or a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken and creamy sauce creates an irresistible dish that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy One-Pot Meal: Save time on cleanup with this simple one-pot cooking method.
• Rich Flavor: A creamy garlic sauce pairs beautifully with the chicken and spinach for a delicious taste.
• Quick to Prepare: This recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out ingredients easily to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach a breeze. Having the right equipment will ensure everything runs smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the pasta and combining all ingredients efficiently in one vessel.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even mixing of flavors.

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Ingredients

Pasta and Proteins

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Flavor Enhancers

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped (substitute with turkey bacon if preferred)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp garlic powder

Vegetables and Broth

• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth

Creamy Elements

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Cook until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Bacon and Garlic

Add the chopped bacon (or turkey bacon) to the same pot. Cook until crispy. Then stir in the minced garlic and garlic powder; sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the penne pasta to the pot along with the chicken broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer. Cover and cook for about 10-12 minutes or until pasta is al dente.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Cream

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the chopped spinach until wilted. Pour in the heavy cream and add shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix everything together until well combined and creamy.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach warm!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

This dish is rich and satisfying, making it perfect for any dinner table. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette can balance the creaminess of the penne.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine topped with a creamy dressing offers a delightful contrast in texture.

Complement with Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted bread brushed with garlic butter pairs wonderfully and is great for soaking up the sauce.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft rolls can add an inviting touch to your meal, perfect for dipping.

Add Extra Flavor

• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan on top before serving for added richness and flavor.
• Chili Flakes: A sprinkle can introduce a subtle heat that enhances the creamy dish.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Perfecting this dish ensures you’ll impress everyone at the table. Here are some tips to guide you.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and garlic will elevate the flavor profile significantly.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This allows the pasta to absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper incrementally for balance.
• Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps meld flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Pairing side dishes can enhance your meal’s flavor profile. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized add texture and nutrition.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious; bright green broccoli complements the creamy pasta well.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, and lemon dressing adds freshness.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings a lovely crunch and color to your plate.
5. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic reduce create a vibrant appetizer.
6. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage and carrots provides a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the penne.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken or pasta can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt and pepper to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the spinach: If you cook the spinach too long, it will lose its vibrant color and nutrients. Add it just a few minutes before serving.
• Using cold ingredients: Adding cold cream or broth can shock the dish and affect creaminess. Let your ingredients come to room temperature first.
• Neglecting the pasta water: This starchy water is essential for binding the sauce. Reserve some before draining your pasta.
• Not stirring enough: Failing to stir can lead to uneven cooking and sauce distribution. Stir regularly for a creamy texture throughout.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

• Use freezer-safe containers for best results.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to make Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach?
To make this dish, cook chicken until golden, add garlic, then stir in spinach, broth, and cream before mixing with cooked penne.

Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to substitute penne with any pasta shape you prefer such as fusilli or farfalle.

How do I customize my Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach?
You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach is great for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge and freezer.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and textures in one pot. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!