Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. This one-pot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, offering a rich and creamy experience with every bite. The combination of tender chicken, crispy Turkey bacon, and fresh spinach creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Plus, its simplicity makes it an excellent choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pot recipe minimizes prep time and cleanup, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream and spices delivers a deliciously creamy sauce that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap in different vegetables or pasta types based on your preferences.
• Family-Friendly: With familiar flavors, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your dinner table.
• Comfort Food: It’s hearty and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for cozy family dinners or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your essential tools. Having everything prepared will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Perfect for cooking pasta and combining all ingredients in one place.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts of chicken and vegetables, speeding up prep time.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Flavoring

• 4 slices Turkey bacon, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Cooking

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups uncooked penne pasta (or any short pasta)

For Seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

For Freshness

• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Dice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, chop the Turkey bacon, mince the garlic, and roughly chop the spinach.

Step 2: Cook Chicken

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Turkey Bacon & Garlic

Once the chicken is cooked through, add the chopped Turkey bacon to the pot. Cook until crispy. Then stir in the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Broth & Cream

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in heavy cream until well combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Pasta

Add uncooked penne pasta to the pot along with paprika and dried Italian herbs. Stir well to ensure all pasta is submerged in liquid. Cover and cook according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 6: Add Spinach

In the last few minutes of cooking, fold in the chopped spinach. Allow it to wilt before serving.

Now you have a delicious Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach ready to delight your family! Enjoy every creamy bite!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach

Serving Creamy Chicken Pasta is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a delightful presentation. Here are some delicious ways to serve this dish that will impress your family and guests.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with a creamy dressing complements the pasta’s richness.

Add Grated Cheese

• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle fresh grated Parmesan on top for an extra layer of flavor.
• Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta can enhance the dish with a tangy taste.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread topped with garlic butter offers a great contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add melted cheese for an indulgent side that pairs perfectly.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil adds a fragrant touch that brightens the dish.
• Parsley Sprigs: Chopped parsley gives color and a hint of freshness.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach

To create the perfect creamy chicken pasta, consider these helpful tips that will elevate your cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and spinach will enhance flavor and texture.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This helps maintain the pasta’s firmness, avoiding mushiness when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors without overpowering salt or spice.
• Incorporate Veggies Early: Adding spinach toward the end of cooking keeps its vibrant color and nutrients intact.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach

Side dishes can complement your creamy chicken pasta beautifully. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Tender broccoli tossed in garlic oil enhances the meal’s nutrition.
2. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus provides a crisp contrast to creamy pasta.
3. Herbed Quinoa: A fluffy quinoa seasoned with herbs adds texture and health benefits.
4. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil on skewers make a fun appetizer.
5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts offer a crunchy texture that pairs well with creaminess.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Light zucchini noodles serve as a low-carb alternative that complements rich flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Ignoring seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland pasta. Always season your chicken with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking pasta: Cooking the pasta too long can result in a mushy texture. Follow the package instructions for al dente pasta to maintain a good bite.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Using subpar chicken broth or cream can diminish flavor. Opt for high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Skipping fresh spinach: While frozen spinach is convenient, it won’t provide the same fresh taste and texture. Always use fresh spinach for this recipe.
• Neglecting to stir frequently: Failing to stir the pasta as it cooks can cause it to stick together. Stir occasionally to keep everything well-combined.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer desired portions into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of chicken broth or water. Stir pasta frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish:

Can I make Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance! Simply store it in the refrigerator, then reheat when ready to serve.

What can I use instead of Turkey bacon?

For a similar crunch without Turkey bacon, try using turkey bacon or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor.

Can I use whole wheat pasta in this recipe?

Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute and adds more fiber while still being delicious.

How do I make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, swap heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Adjust seasoning as needed.

What sides pair well with Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach?

A simple green salad or garlic bread makes excellent accompaniments to balance the richness of the pasta.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Turkey Bacon and Spinach is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough to customize. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

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Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Chicken Pasta with Spinach is a delightful one-pot meal that brings comfort and flavor to your table. This dish combines tender chicken breast, a rich and creamy sauce, and fresh spinach for a satisfying experience that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its simple preparation, this creamy pasta dish is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or pasta types. Enjoy every creamy bite as you delight your family with this quick and easy recipe.

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Ingredients

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until no longer pink (about 5-7 minutes).
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in heavy cream until well combined.
4. Add uncooked penne pasta along with paprika and dried herbs; stir to submerge the pasta.
5. Cover and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
6. In the last few minutes of cooking, fold in chopped spinach until wilted.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 90mg