Description

Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne is the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and fresh flavors, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With juicy chicken, crispy bacon, tender spinach, and sun-ripened tomatoes tossed in a luxurious Alfredo sauce, this dish is a symphony of textures and flavors. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a special occasion, or just a reason to indulge, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken and Pasta:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 12 oz penne pasta
• For the Sauce and Add-Ins:
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4–6 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 2 large tomatoes, diced

Preparation Method

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, then cook them until golden brown and no longer pink in the center. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

In the same skillet used for the chicken, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, creating a thick, creamy sauce. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook briefly until fragrant. Stir in the fresh spinach and diced tomatoes, letting the spinach wilt and the tomatoes soften slightly. Toss in the crumbled bacon to add a smoky crunch.

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it into the sauce and vegetables. Add the cooked penne pasta, tossing everything together to ensure the sauce coats every piece of pasta evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Serve the pasta hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and freshly cracked black pepper for a final touch of flavor.

Tips and Conclusion

Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the penne for gluten-free pasta.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the spinach for extra heartiness.

Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne is more than just a pasta dish; it’s a meal that brings people together. The creamy Alfredo sauce, perfectly cooked chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables create a harmonious blend of flavors that’s impossible to resist. Pair it with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete dinner experience.

Looking for more recipes to satisfy your pasta cravings? Try our Creamy Mushroom Chicken Penne or Bacon and Cheese-Stuffed Tater Tots for a perfect side dish. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones—it’s bound to become a favorite!