This creamy chicken and corn pasta is a cozy dish that hits the spot! Juicy chicken, sweet corn, and crispy bacon come together in a rich sauce that makes this meal oh-so-satisfying.
Let’s be real, who can resist the crunch of bacon? I always make a little extra just for snacking while I cook. 😄 Plus, this pasta is quick to whip up, perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle adds a cute touch, but you can use any pasta shape you like! Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti work well and will hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
Chicken: Chicken breasts are perfect here, but thighs are a great alternative for a richer flavor. You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time!
Bacon: The crispy bacon gives a savory crunch. Turkey bacon works well too if you prefer a lighter option or want to keep it healthier.
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet, but frozen corn is just as convenient and should be thawed. If you’re in a pinch, canned corn can work too; just drain and rinse it first.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk with a little cornstarch for thickness, but the sauce may not be as rich.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken right brings out its tenderness. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut chicken into even bite-sized pieces for uniform cooking.
- Season generously with spices to boost flavor.
- Cook over medium-high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan; this helps achieve a nice golden crust.
- Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Crispy Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225 g) farfalle pasta (or your preferred pasta)
For the Chicken and Bacon:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 medium chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices bacon
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or frozen, thawed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh oregano or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken and corn pasta takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then an additional 20 minutes cooking everything to perfection. It’s a quick, comforting meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Preparing the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess fat. Once it’s cooled a bit, chop it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Cooking the Chicken:
In the same skillet (add olive oil if needed), season the chicken pieces with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping once, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Making the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Then, add the corn kernels to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until they start to get a little golden.
5. Combining Everything:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently. Let this mixture come to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Final Touches:
Return the cooked chicken and crispy bacon to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together to ensure that the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh oregano or parsley before serving. Enjoy this comforting, hearty meal immediately!
Dig in and enjoy the delightful flavors of creamy chicken, sweet corn, and crunchy bacon all in one comforting pasta dish! 🥰
FAQ for Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Crispy Bacon
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle works wonderfully, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Choose your favorite pasta shape to suit your taste!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, thickened slightly with cornstarch. Keep in mind that the sauce may be less rich but still delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened too much.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and bacon and replace the broth with vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, to enhance the dish.
