This Easy Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta is a true comfort dish! Juicy chicken, sweet corn, and crispy bacon come together in a rich and creamy sauce. It’s a bowl of happiness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle gives a pretty shape and holds the sauce well. You can swap it with any pasta you like, such as penne or fusilli. If you want a gluten-free option, use chickpea or quinoa pasta.
Chicken: I used chicken breasts because they cook quickly and stay juicy. You can substitute with thighs if you prefer darker meat, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, turkey bacon works well. For a vegetarian version, try adding mushrooms or smoked tempeh instead.
Corn: Fresh corn is sweet and tasty, but frozen corn is just as good and more convenient. Canned corn works too, but be sure to drain it well.
Cheese: Cheddar gives a great flavor, but feel free to use a cheese blend or even cream cheese for a different taste. If you want a dairy-free option, try vegan cheese or nutritional yeast.
How Do You Achieve the Creamiest Sauce?
The trick to a creamy sauce is controlling the heat and blending your ingredients well. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet isn’t too hot when adding cream, or it may curdle. Stick to medium-low heat once you pour it in.
- Always stir the sauce gently to keep it smooth as you mix in the cheese.
- If the sauce gets too thick, just add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water to loosen it up.
These steps will help you create a deliciously creamy sauce for your pasta. Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta with Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz farfalle (bow-tie) pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 strips of bacon, chopped
- 2 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Fresh oregano or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook. With just a quick boil for the pasta and some sautéing, you’ll have a creamy, comforting meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook The Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once it’s done, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Fry The Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, which will take about 5-7 minutes. When it’s done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the bacon fat behind. Set the crispy bacon aside on a plate.
3. Sauté The Chicken:
Using the same skillet, you can add the olive oil if needed. Then, toss in the bite-sized pieces of chicken. Season them with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sauté until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, around 5-7 minutes. When finished, remove the chicken and set it aside along with the bacon.
4. Add Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent.
5. Cook the Corn:
Next, add the corn kernels to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, just until the corn is warmed through and tender.
6. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
7. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a creamy sauce. If it feels too thick, you can add a splash more of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
8. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken and crispy bacon back into the skillet. Then, add the drained pasta and mix everything together, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
9. Final Touches:
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
10. Serve It Up:
Garnish with fresh oregano or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your creamy chicken corn pasta hot and enjoy the delightful mix of textures and tastes!
Enjoy your comforting, creamy chicken corn pasta with the savory crunch of bacon!
FAQ for Easy Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta with Bacon
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Pat it dry before cooking to ensure it sears nicely.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you prefer to skip the bacon, you can use turkey bacon for a lower-fat option, or even pancetta for a slightly different flavor. For a vegetarian alternative, try sautéed mushrooms for that umami taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a little chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Pasta Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the bacon, chicken, and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve. Combine everything just before serving to enjoy optimal flavor and consistency.
