This creamy chicken corn pasta is a real winner! With juicy chicken, sweet corn, and crispy bacon, every bite is packed with flavor. The creamy sauce ties it all together beautifully.
You won’t believe how quick and easy this dish is to whip up! It’s perfect for busy nights when you still want something comforting and tasty. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is a fun shape that holds onto the sauce well. You can swap it for penne or fusilli if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the type you use!
Chicken: Chicken breasts are great for this dish. You can easily substitute them with rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and less prep time. Just shred and add it in when you combine everything!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky touch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well. Or, for a vegetarian alternative, you could omit it entirely and add more vegetables instead.
Corn: Fresh corn gives the best sweetness, but frozen corn is super convenient and just as tasty. You can also try using other veggies like peas or zucchini!
Cheese: Cheddar is rich and creamy, but you can switch it up with mozzarella or even a blend of your favorites. Just ensure it’s a melting cheese for the best results!
How Do I Make Creamy Sauce Without It Splitting?
Getting a creamy sauce just right is key to this pasta’s success. Here’s how to avoid splitting:
- Use medium to low heat when adding cream. High heat can cause it to curdle.
- Let your chicken broth simmer first to reduce its volume; this intensifies flavor while cooling down the temperature.
- Stir the cream in gradually while mixing it with the other ingredients. Constant stirring helps to evenly distribute the heat.
- Make sure not to boil the sauce after adding cream, as boiling can lead to separation.
Taking these steps will ensure a smooth, rich sauce that coats your pasta beautifully!
Easy Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta with Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz (225 g) farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh oregano for garnish)
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or oregano) for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken corn pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes to chop and cook your ingredients and about 15-20 minutes simmering everything together for a delicious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook 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. Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your chicken pieces with paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sizzle the Bacon:
Using the same skillet, add the chopped bacon. Cook until it becomes crispy, which should take around 3-4 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the grease in the skillet. Discard excess grease, but keep about 1 tablespoon in the skillet for flavor.
4. Add Garlic and Corn:
If there’s not enough grease in the skillet, add a little more olive oil. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until it’s fragrant but not burnt. Next, toss in the corn kernels and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they are heated through.
5. Create the Creamy Base:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for around 2 minutes to reduce slightly. Then, lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the mixture transforms into a creamy sauce.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the chicken, crispy bacon, and cooked pasta back into the skillet. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce. Allow it to cook for another 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
7. Final Touches:
Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano to taste. Before serving, sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a lovely presentation.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Your creamy chicken corn pasta with bacon is ready to enjoy! Serve it hot, and dig into this comforting, delicious meal.
FAQ for Easy Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta with Bacon
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle works great in this recipe, feel free to substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
Can This Dish Be Made Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish gluten-free! Use gluten-free pasta and make sure to check that your chicken broth and other ingredients are also gluten-free. The rest of the recipe remains the same!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the creaminess if it thickens up too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can skip the chicken and bacon entirely or replace them with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a hearty vegetarian twist. Just make sure to replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep the flavors balanced!
