Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta Bacon

There is nothing cozier than a big bowl of creamy chicken and corn pasta loaded with smoky bacon. This is one of my family’s favorite weeknight dinners all year round because you get comforting flavors with minimal fuss. Thanks to a creamy sauce packed with sweet corn and plenty of Parmesan, this dish manages to be both decadent and balanced. It is just as perfect with those juicy summer corn kernels as it is with canned or frozen corn on a blustery winter night.

It quickly became my solution for cheerful dinners when my kids needed something comforting

Ingredients

• Farfalle pasta: This fun bow-tie shape holds the creamy sauce so well Choose a sturdy brand that cooks up just to al dente
• Parmesan cheese: Adds deep savory flavor and helps thicken the sauce Grab a block and grate your own for the best melt
• Chicken thighs or breasts: Go for thighs for extra juiciness or breasts if you like leaner bites Look for chicken that is fresh and free from excess liquid
• Smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky warmth and gorgeous color Seek out Spanish or Hungarian varieties that are fresh and bright
• Italian seasoning: Gives a whisper of herbs that ties together all the flavors Use a blend with oregano thyme and marjoram
• Salt and black pepper: Enhances every other ingredient Use freshly ground pepper for the best aroma
• Olive oil: The oil keeps everything moist and helps with browning Use extra virgin
• Corn kernels: The star of the dish Sweet juicy kernels offer little pops of flavor Fresh is divine but high-quality frozen or even canned corn work
• Chili powder: Slight heat balances out the creaminess Choose a brand that is more earthy than overly spicy
• Heavy cream: The foundation of the sauce making everything silky and rich Go for the freshest cream you can find
• Bacon: Gives crunch and a smoky richness Look for thick-cut bacon and cook it just until crisp
• Fresh herbs: Oregano thyme or marjoram for garnish Fresh herbs make the plate vibrant and fragrant

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a generous pot of water to a steady boil and salt it well to flavor the pasta Cook the farfalle according to package directions aiming for al dente about ten to twelve minutes Drain and set aside while you prepare the rest

Prep the Cheese:

Grate the Parmesan cheese just before using and spread out in a bowl placed near the stove This lets the cheese soften slightly so it melts easily into the sauce later Do not skip this step as cold cheese can turn clumpy

Cook the Chicken:

Slice the chicken into even strips for quick cooking Toss the chicken pieces thoroughly with smoked paprika Italian seasoning salt and pepper Heat a large skillet over medium heat then pour in olive oil and add the chicken Sear on both sides for four to five minutes until fully cooked through Transfer to a plate to rest

Make the Creamy Corn Sauce:

In the hot but empty skillet add fresh or frozen corn kernels and a drizzle of olive oil along with more smoked paprika chili powder salt and pepper Stir the corn regularly cooking for about three minutes on low so all the flavors meld together Remove half of the corn to a small dish to save for topping

Build the Creamy Sauce:

Pour heavy cream into the skillet with the remaining corn and turn the heat to just below medium Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer then add the grated Parmesan Stir slowly letting the cheese fully melt to create a luscious sauce

Combine and Finish:

Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce Give everything a good toss so the sauce coats every piece Fold in the cooked chicken Sprinkle crispy bacon pieces and reserved corn over the top then finish with lots of fresh herbs for color and brightness

Pin

Storage Tips

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use rotini penne or rigatoni if you are out of farfalle Greek yogurt can be swapped in for some of the cream for a lighter version Turkey bacon or prosciutto are great if you prefer not to use regular pork bacon

Serving Suggestions

A crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly Garlic bread or a big hunk of rustic bread makes it even more comforting For kids I like to top with extra Parmesan

Pin

A Little History

Creamy chicken pasta dishes like this one are inspired by classic Italian-American cooking but the addition of sweet corn and smoked spices gives it a fresh American twist It is a great example of how home cooks adapt tradition using what is in season or on hand

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken thighs or breasts?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works well. Simply shred and add it at the assembly stage to warm through in the sauce.

→ Is fresh corn necessary or can I use canned or frozen?

Either canned or frozen corn can be substituted for fresh corn. Just be sure to drain canned corn before using.

→ What pasta shapes work best for this dish?

Farfalle (bow-tie) is traditional, but penne, fusilli, or rigatoni also hold the creamy sauce beautifully.

→ How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the cream mixture longer or add a bit more Parmesan cheese until it reaches your desired consistency.

→ Can this meal be prepared ahead of time?

While best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the components in advance and quickly reheat them together before serving.

→ What fresh herbs can I use for garnish?

Thyme, oregano, or marjoram all add a bright, aromatic finish to the dish. Use what you have on hand.