If you have ever dreamed of a pasta dish that bursts with comforting creaminess, smoky bacon, and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes, then this Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Bacon Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors, combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, luscious sauce, and vibrant spinach in one irresistible plate. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish invites you to savor every bite with joy and ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating this Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Bacon Recipe is refreshingly simple thanks to a handful of essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in building its rich, savory profile and beautiful color contrast.
- 300g / 10 oz fettuccine: The perfect pasta to hold the creamy sauce on every strand without weighing it down.
- 30g / 2 tbsp butter: Divided use brings out the flavor in the chicken and enriches the sauce.
- 2 chicken breasts: Cut in half horizontally for quick cooking and tender bites.
- 1/2 tsp each salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that highlights the natural flavors.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Adds that wonderful aromatic base.
- 1/2 cup (125ml) dry white wine: A subtle tang to brighten the creamy sauce; chicken broth can substitute.
- 1/2 cup (125ml) chicken stock/broth: Low sodium keeps the dish balanced without oversalting.
- 1 1/4 cups (315ml) thickened/heavy cream: The creamy heart of the sauce provides indulgent richness.
- 3/4 cup (75g) parmesan (finely shredded): Adds sharpness and depth to the sauce with a nutty finish.
- 70g / 2.5oz baby spinach: Brings freshness and a pop of green to brighten the dish.
- 100 g / 3oz sun-dried tomato strips: Offer intense, chewy bursts of concentrated tomato flavor.
- 120g / 4oz bacon (cooked and crumbled): Smoky, crispy bacon takes this dish to the next level of deliciousness.
- More parmesan: For garnishing, because who doesn’t love extra cheese?
- Parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbaceous touch to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Bacon Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions, but stop about 1 1/2 minutes before it is fully done. This ensures the pasta will finish cooking in the sauce and soak up all those fantastic flavors. Just before draining, scoop out a mugful of pasta water to help loosen up the sauce later if needed.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, slice your chicken breasts horizontally to create thinner pieces that cook faster and more evenly. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. Melt half the butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 4 minutes on each side. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Deglaze
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté gently until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn. Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken — those bits are full of flavor! Let the wine reduce slightly, about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken stock and let it simmer for a minute to combine. Stir in the thickened cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the sauce to thicken a bit. Once thickened, add the parmesan cheese and stir until melted, creating a silky smooth sauce that promises indulgence with every bite.
Step 5: Add Veggies, Bacon, and Combine Everything
Toss the baby spinach and sun-dried tomato strips into the sauce, letting the spinach wilt gently. Stir in the cooked, crumbled bacon for that smoky crunch. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the pan, mixing everything well. Finally, add the drained pasta and, if necessary, a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce until it coats every strand perfectly.
How to Serve Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Bacon Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan and a handful of chopped parsley elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise. These simple touches add a beautiful color contrast and a fresh herbal note to the creamy richness.
Side Dishes
This pasta holds its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Think arugula with lemon vinaigrette or asparagus tossed in olive oil and garlic—both provide a light counterpoint to the creamy indulgence on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the colorful sun-dried tomatoes and vibrant spinach. You can also drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil or a few drops of balsamic reduction around the edge for an elegant touch. For a cozy family-style dinner, present it in a large serving bowl with extra parmesan on the side for sprinkling.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Keep the sauce thick and luscious by reheating gently over low heat and stirring often.
Freezing
This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Bacon Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers for up to a month. Freeze in portions to make thawing and reheating more convenient. Note that the cream sauce may separate slightly when frozen, so gentle reheating with occasional stirring is key.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or reserved pasta water to bring back that creamy consistency. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from splitting. Microwaving is possible but do so in short bursts and stir regularly for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I substitute the cream with a lighter option?
You can try using half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. Heavy cream gives this recipe its signature velvety texture.
What can I use if I don’t have sun-dried tomatoes?
Roasted red peppers or fresh cherry tomatoes lightly sautéed can be a good alternative, but they won’t have quite the same concentrated flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the chicken and bacon, and add mushrooms or roasted vegetables instead. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I prepare components in advance to save time?
You can cook and slice the chicken and crumble the bacon ahead of time, and even make the sauce in advance. Just warm everything together and toss with freshly cooked pasta for the best results.
What wine pairs best with this creamy chicken pasta?
A crisp Chardonnay or a dry Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and sun-dried tomato tang beautifully, enhancing all the rich and savory flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Bacon Recipe has all the comfort, flavor, and quick preparation you could ask for in a weeknight meal or special dinner. It’s one of those dishes where every bite feels like a warm hug from your kitchen, and I cannot wait for you to try it and make it your own. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Creamy Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Bacon Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy chicken pasta combines tender chicken breasts, rich cream sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, crispy bacon, and fresh baby spinach over perfectly cooked fettuccine. A quick and flavorful dish ideal for an easy weeknight dinner that yields four hearty servings.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 300g / 10 oz fettuccine
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 chicken breasts, cut in half horizontally
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 30g / 2 tbsp butter, separated
- 1/2 cup (125ml) dry white wine (substitute with more chicken broth if desired)
- 1/2 cup (125ml) low sodium chicken stock / broth
- 1 1/4 cups (315ml) thickened / heavy cream
- 3/4 cup (75g) parmesan, finely shredded
- More parmesan for serving
Vegetables and Extras
- 70g / 2.5oz baby spinach
- 100g / 3oz sun dried tomato strips
- 120g / 4oz bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions, reducing the time by 1 1/2 minutes to keep the pasta slightly al dente. Just before draining, reserve a mugful of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat half the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken halves with salt and pepper, then cook in the skillet until golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Deglaze the pan with the white wine (or extra chicken broth), allowing it to reduce by half. Add the chicken stock and heavy cream, stirring to combine and letting the sauce thicken gently over medium heat.
- Combine ingredients: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return to the skillet. Add the sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, and crumbled bacon to the sauce. Stir in the cooked pasta and parmesan cheese. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Plate the creamy chicken pasta and garnish with extra parmesan and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately for a comforting, delicious meal.
Notes
- Note 1: Use good quality fettuccine or any pasta of choice; cooking time varies by type.
- Note 2: Thickened or heavy cream is necessary for a rich and creamy sauce texture.
- Note 3: Freshly grated parmesan melts better and provides the best flavor.
- Note 4: Sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness; use strips packed in oil for best flavor.
- If you prefer, substitute white wine with additional chicken broth for an alcohol-free version.
- The reserved pasta water helps to adjust sauce consistency and helps it cling to the noodles.
