A delightful combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, fresh spinach, and creamy sauce over perfectly cooked penne pasta makes this dish an irresistible comfort food. It’s a versatile recipe that balances richness with the freshness of spinach and a hint of garlic, creating a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With minimal prep and just a few key ingredients, this flavorful pasta dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option for busy schedules.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Spinach: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove spinach and set aside with the chicken.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if using.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked penne, chicken, bacon, and spinach to the skillet. Toss until everything is evenly coated with the sauce and heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
This creamy Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne is a meal everyone will love—simple to make but packed with flavor!
