Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne
Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne is a hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, fresh spinach, and cherry tomatoes in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. Topped with Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for a comforting dinner or a special occasion meal.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Cooking oil for the skillet
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown and cooked through, then set aside.
- Prepare the Bacon: In the same skillet, cook the bacon until crispy, crumble it, and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic and Spinach: Sauté minced garlic in the residual bacon fat for 1 minute, then add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Add Cherry Tomatoes: Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then stir in Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine Ingredients: Add cooked pasta, chicken, and crumbled bacon to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Omit chicken and bacon, or use plant-based alternatives; use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with mozzarella, Asiago, or a mix of cheeses for different flavors.
- Customize Vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free penne pasta for a gluten-free version.
Nutrition
Calories: 650kcal
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