This creamy chicken and corn pasta is a cozy dish that brings warmth to any dinner table. With tender chicken, sweet corn, and crispy bacon, it’s bursting with flavor!
It’s perfect for busy nights because it all comes together in one pot. I love how the creamy sauce clings to the pasta, making every bite a delightful hug for your taste buds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used farfalle because it’s fun to eat and holds the sauce well. If you can’t find it, any pasta like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti will work just fine!
Chicken: Chicken breast is my go-to for this dish as it cooks quickly. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey breast or even diced tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor. Turkey bacon or pancetta are great substitutes if you prefer less fat or want to keep it lighter.
Corn: Fresh corn makes the dish sweet and vibrant, but frozen corn is a great alternative. Just make sure it’s thawed before using!
Cheese: While I love using cheddar, feel free to mix things up! A blend of mozzarella and parmesan gives a yummy stretchiness and flavor. Adjust based on your taste!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken to perfection can be tricky, but here’s how to do it just right! It’s important to season your chicken before cooking, so it’s flavorful. Here’s a step-by-step to guide you:
- Cut the chicken into uniform small pieces; they’ll cook evenly this way.
- Heat the skillet and let it get hot, then add the seasoned chicken.
- Cook until the chicken is golden brown on both sides; this should take around 5-7 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer if unsure; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet as soon as it’s done to prevent overcooking!
Following these tips will help you get perfectly cooked chicken every time!
How to Make Creamy Chicken And Corn Pasta With Bacon?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 8 oz farfalle pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or frozen corn)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as thyme or parsley) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken and corn pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare from start to finish. You’ll have a delicious meal on your table in no time with just a bit of cooking and mixing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain it and set it aside. This will be the base of your delicious dish!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until it’s crispy—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the skillet and let it drain on a paper towel. Don’t clean the skillet; the bacon flavor will add to your dish!
3. Sear the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add the olive oil and let it heat up. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside, just like you did with the bacon.
4. Add Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which will transform into a creamy sauce.
6. Add Corn and Cheese:
Next, add the corn and the shredded cheese to the skillet. Stir everything until the cheese is melted and the sauce is nice and creamy. It should smell wonderful!
7. Combine Pasta and Chicken:
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together so that the pasta and chicken are well coated in that creamy sauce.
8. Finish with Seasoning and Bacon:
Adjust the seasoning if needed, then stir in the cooked bacon for that extra crunch and flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your creamy chicken and corn pasta with bacon!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute the farfalle pasta with any pasta of your choice such as penne, rotini, or spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you select.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream with a Lighter Option?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream for a lighter version. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as thick or creamy, so you might want to add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it if needed.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or cooked tofu, and omit the bacon or substitute it with a plant-based bacon alternative. This will still give you a hearty and flavorful dish!
