Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne

 

Quick Overview

If you are looking for a delightful meal that combines rich flavors and easy preparation, this Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne recipe is just what you need. This comforting dish features tender chicken pieces tossed with crispy bacon, fresh spinach, and perfectly cooked penne pasta in a creamy sauce. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes!

Ingredient Breakdown

Chicken Breast

You will need 2 cups of cooked chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces. Choose boneless and skinless chicken breasts for ease of cooking. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.

Bacon

Use 6 slices of thick-cut bacon to bring a smoky flavor to the dish. Cook the bacon until crispy before adding it to the penne. The rendered fat will add richness to your sauce.

Fresh Spinach

Add 3 cups of fresh spinach for a nutritious boost. Spinach wilts down significantly when cooked, so don’t hesitate to add extra if you love greens! It adds both color and flavor to the dish.

Penne Pasta

Use 8 ounces of penne pasta, cooked al dente according to package instructions. The tubular shape holds onto the sauce beautifully and makes each bite satisfying.

Heavy Cream

Incorporate 1 cup of heavy cream for a luscious sauce that ties all the ingredients together. It creates a velvety texture that coats the pasta perfectly.

Garlic

Add 4 cloves of minced garlic for aromatic depth. Garlic enhances the overall flavor profile and brings a savory note to the dish.

Parmesan Cheese

Grate ½ cup of Parmesan cheese to sprinkle over the finished meal. This cheese adds a sharpness that complements the creaminess beautifully.

Step By Step Recipe: Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne

Prepare Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Dice the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and set it aside in a mixing bowl. Chop the bacon into small strips using kitchen scissors for easier handling.

Cook Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon strips. Cook until they are crispy and golden brown, typically about 5-7 minutes. Remove them from the skillet and place them on paper towels to drain excess grease while keeping some drippings in the pan.

Sauté Garlic

Using the same skillet with remaining bacon fat, lower the heat slightly and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned; this will ensure your dish doesn’t take on a bitter taste from burnt garlic.

Add Spinach

Toss in three cups of fresh spinach into the skillet with garlic. Stir frequently as it wilts down within about two minutes. Make sure it’s evenly coated with garlic oil for optimal flavor throughout.

Combine Chicken & Bacon

Once spinach is wilted down, add your diced chicken breast back into the skillet along with crispy bacon bits. Stir everything together until well mixed; this allows flavors to meld beautifully before adding sauce ingredients.

Incorporate Cream

Pour in one cup of heavy cream while stirring continuously over low heat. Allow it to simmer gently without boiling for about five minutes until slightly thickened; this creates that luxurious creamy base for your dish.

Mix In Parmesan Cheese

Add half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese into the creamy mixture while stirring constantly until melted completely into the sauce—this adds rich flavor depth and helps thicken it further.

Combine With Cooked Pasta

Incorporate eight ounces of cooked penne pasta into your skillet containing sauce mixture carefully folding it in using tongs or spatula ensuring all noodles are coated evenly without breaking them apart.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne hot right from the skillet! Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese or cracked black pepper if desired for added flavor enhancement at mealtime—perfect alongside crusty bread or salad!

Storage Guidelines

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days maximum—reheat gently on low heat when ready to enjoy again! Avoid reheating too long as it may alter texture; adding a splash of cream during reheating keeps it moist!

This Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne recipe provides an easy yet delicious meal option that’s perfect whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones! Enjoy every bite!

Mistakes to avoid

One common mistake when making Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne is overcooking the pasta. Always follow the package instructions and cook until al dente. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and losing its texture. Additionally, avoid adding too much salt to the cooking water. The bacon will also contribute saltiness, so balance is essential for a flavorful dish.

Another mistake is using low-quality ingredients. High-quality chicken and fresh spinach make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for fresh or frozen spinach instead of canned varieties, which can be soggy and less appealing. Finally, don’t skip the seasoning. A pinch of black pepper or a dash of garlic powder can elevate your dish.

Tips and tricks

When preparing Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne, consider cooking the bacon until crispy before adding other ingredients. Crispy bacon adds texture and depth to your dish, enhancing its overall flavor. Make sure to reserve some bacon grease in the pan; it adds richness when sautéing the spinach and garlic.

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth after sautéing the spinach and garlic. This step deglazes the pan and incorporates any delicious bits stuck to the bottom. Additionally, consider using whole wheat penne for a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice taste.

Experiment with different cheese options as well; Parmesan, mozzarella, or even feta can create unique flavor profiles in your Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne. Lastly, don’t hesitate to customize your recipe by adding sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for added complexity.

Suggestions for Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne

When serving Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne, pair it with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. The acidity from the dressing balances out the richness of the dish, making each bite delightful.

Consider garnishing your meal with freshly chopped parsley or basil for added color and freshness. These herbs not only enhance presentation but also add an aromatic touch that complements the flavors in your dish beautifully.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, use a skillet on low heat with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess without drying out your meal.

FAQs

What can I substitute for penne pasta in this recipe?

You can substitute penne pasta with other types like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle if desired. Each shape will hold onto the sauce differently but will still work well with Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne. Choose your favorite shape based on personal preference or what you have on hand.

Can I make Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne ahead of time by cooking all components separately and combining them just before serving. Store everything in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days for best results.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! To create a vegetarian version of Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne, simply omit the chicken and bacon. Instead, you can use mushrooms or tempeh as protein alternatives while keeping all other ingredients intact for similar flavors without meat.

How do I store leftover Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat effectively without losing quality, add a splash of cream or broth when warming on low heat in a skillet to restore creaminess.

Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne?

Yes! You can freeze Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne by placing it in an airtight container after fully cooling down. It’s best consumed within one month of freezing but allows you to enjoy this delicious meal later.

What should I serve with Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne?

Pair Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne with garlic bread or a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a complete meal experience. These sides enhance flavors while balancing richness from the pasta dish itself.

Summary

In summary, making Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne requires attention to detail to avoid mistakes such as overcooking pasta and using low-quality ingredients. Implementing tips like reserving bacon grease and experimenting with cheeses can elevate flavors significantly. Don’t forget suggestions like pairing it with salads or storing leftovers properly! Enjoying this dish offers endless opportunities for customization while remaining simple yet delightful.

 

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