Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta

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Creamy, smoky, and irresistibly indulgent — Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings joy to every bite. This dish wraps tender pieces of chicken in a luscious cream cheese sauce, tosses it with perfectly cooked pasta, and finishes it all with crisp, savory bacon. It’s a symphony of textures and flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or when you simply need a warm hug in the form of food.

The velvety cream cheese sauce clings to the pasta, while bits of salty bacon add just the right crunch. And with juicy chicken making each bite more satisfying, it’s no surprise this dish becomes a household favorite fast. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta is a delicious way to bring everyone to the table.

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Ingredients for this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta

• 12 oz penne or pasta of your choice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, sliced or cubed
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

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Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you want to thin the sauce later.

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Step 2: Prepare the Bacon

While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble or chop into pieces once slightly cooled.

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Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, discard excess bacon grease leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add olive oil if needed, then cook the chicken pieces over medium-high heat. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 5–7 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

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Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir frequently until the cream cheese is completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.

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Step 5: Add Cheese and Combine

Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese and stir until fully melted. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Then, gently fold in the cooked pasta.

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Step 6: Final Touches

If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Top with crumbled bacon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving hot.

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Storage Instructions

Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. To keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer: This dish can be frozen, though the texture of the cream cheese sauce may change slightly. If freezing, allow the pasta to cool completely and place it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings)

• Calories: ~640
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Note: These are estimated values and may vary depending on specific brands and ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli is ideal as it holds the creamy sauce well.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save time and adds extra flavor.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

You can substitute with mascarpone or a mix of heavy cream and grated cheese, though the texture and taste may differ.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli pair wonderfully with the creamy sauce and bacon.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, but for best texture, reheat slowly and add a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while it’s cooking for an extra kick.

What cheese is best for the sauce?

Mozzarella makes it creamy, while Parmesan adds sharpness. You can mix them for best flavor.

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