Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne
Embark on a culinary journey with our Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne recipe, a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh spinach in a creamy Alfredo sauce. This versatile recipe is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a perfect balance of textures and tastes. In this article, we’ll guide you through the preparation steps, provide tips for customization, and share the experience of savoring this mouthwatering creation.
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Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne Ingredients
Let’s start with the essential ingredients that make this dish a true delight:
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| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 8 ounces |
| Chicken breasts | 2, boneless, skinless |
| Bacon | 6 slices, cooked and crumbled |
| Fresh spinach | 2 cups, chopped |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup, halved |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup, grated |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Chicken broth | 1/2 cup |
| Unsalted butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
| Fresh basil or parsley | For garnish (optional) |
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set it aside.
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Cook Chicken:
In a large skillet, cook the bite-sized chicken pieces over medium-high heat until they are no longer pink in the center. Season with salt and black pepper, then set aside.
Prepare Bacon:
Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Set aside for later use.
Sauté Garlic and Spinach:
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
Add Cherry Tomatoes:
Introduce the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
Make Alfredo Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Add the butter and continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooked penne pasta, chicken, and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve the Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne hot, and indulge in the delightful combination of flavors.
Tips for Customization
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and bacon for a vegetarian version, or substitute with plant-based alternatives.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or Asiago, to add a unique twist to the Alfredo sauce.
- Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and color.
In conclusion, our Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne recipe offers not just a delightful meal but a culinary experience. The combination of chicken, bacon, and spinach in a creamy Alfredo sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and indulgent. Customize it to suit your taste, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a crowd-pleasing masterpiece in your own kitchen.
