One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Crispy Bacon, Fresh Spinach & Triple Cheese Cream Sauce
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
1½ lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 slices smoked bacon, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
12 oz (340 g) penne or rotini pasta
2½ cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
3 cups fresh baby spinach
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Parmesan shavings, for garnish
Extra cracked black pepper, for serving
Warm garlic bread, for serving
Directions:
Heat a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook the diced bacon until crispy, then transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the pan.
Add the butter and olive oil. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear for 5–6 minutes until lightly golden.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well.
Add the uncooked pasta, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
Stir in the cream cheese until completely melted and smooth.
Add the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until the sauce becomes silky and glossy.
Fold in the fresh spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
Return most of the crispy bacon to the pan, reserving some for garnish. Stir gently to combine.
Remove from the heat and let the pasta rest for 3–5 minutes to thicken naturally.
Garnish with the reserved bacon crumbles, Parmesan shavings, chopped parsley, and a generous sprinkle of cracked black pepper.
Serve immediately with warm garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 815 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta with Crispy Bacon, Fresh Spinach & Triple Cheese Cream Sauce