This creamy chicken and corn pasta is the perfect comfort food! Loaded with tender chicken, sweet corn, and crispy bacon, it’s rich and satisfying.
Honestly, what’s better than pasta? Pasta with bacon! I could eat this every week and never get tired of it. Add a sprinkle of cheese on top, and you’re in foodie heaven!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle is great for this dish since its shape holds onto the sauce well. If you prefer, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast is convenient here, but you can also use shredded rotisserie chicken or even leftover turkey if you have it on hand. Both save you time and add great flavor!
Bacon: I love the crunch and flavor of bacon, but you can use turkey bacon for a lighter version. Or, leave it out entirely for a vegetarian option, adding some sautéed mushrooms for extra depth.
Corn: Fresh corn is lovely but frozen corn works just as well and keeps things easy. If corn isn’t available, you could add peas or diced bell peppers for a similar texture.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creaminess, but if you’re looking to cut calories, swapping it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream can work. Just keep an eye on the thickness!
How Can You Make This Dish Extra Creamy and Flavorful?
The key to a rich and creamy sauce is the right balance of chicken broth and cream. Start with a good simmer after adding them to your skillet. This helps meld the flavors beautifully. Here’s how to achieve that perfect creaminess:
- After you add chicken broth and heavy cream, give it a gentle stir and let it simmer for a few minutes.
- Mix in the Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing it to melt completely into the sauce. This boosts both creaminess and flavor.
- Don’t forget to taste your sauce! Adjust with more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
By following these tips, your creamy chicken and corn pasta will surely impress with its rich flavor and satisfying texture!
How to Make Creamy Chicken And Corn Pasta With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 oz farfalle pasta (or your choice of pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 3 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy chicken and corn pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and about 20 minutes making the sauce and combining everything. A quick meal that’s packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by filling a large pot with water, add a little salt, and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the farfalle pasta (or your choice) and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. After it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the crumbled bacon. Cook until it’s crispy, and then take it out of the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain. Leave the bacon fat in the skillet; it adds great flavor!
3. Sauté the Chicken:
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the diced chicken. Season it with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Give it a good stir and let it bring to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens, turning it creamy!
5. Add Corn and Cheese:
Next, toss in the corn kernels and the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix it well and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce thickens slightly and everything is combined beautifully.
6. Combine with Pasta:
Fold in the cooked pasta and the crumbled bacon, gently mixing until all the ingredients are coated with the creamy sauce. This is where your pasta comes to life!
7. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. When you’re ready to serve, dish it out hot, and feel free to sprinkle some fresh thyme or parsley on top for that lovely finishing touch. Enjoy your creamy chicken and corn pasta!
Can I Use Different Pasta Types for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While farfalle is great for this dish, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, following the package instructions for best results.
How Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that this will result in a slightly thinner sauce. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk, but you may need to add a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to help bring back the creamy texture. Be careful not to overheat, as the pasta can become mushy!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! This recipe is very versatile. You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the chicken until they’re tender before adding the cream and corn. Enjoy getting creative with your veggie choices!
