Easy Chicken Bacon Mushroom Pasta
This creamy chicken bacon mushroom pasta is very tasty and the best part, it is very easy to prepare! Great for weeknight meals or when you have guests, this recipe unites hearty pasta, tender chicken, crispy bacon and earthy mushrooms in a lush, creamy sauce. Definitely one to save for later!
This blog covers everything you need to know about preparing this dish, including why you’ll love it and the complete nutritional breakdown. So, whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a novice in search of a sure-fire recipe, you’ll find what you need to make a meal that’s nothing less than impeccable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Full of Flavor: Crispy bacon and mushrooms combined with a creamy sauce makes for a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Easy to Make: Easy, surprising steps that make this great for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Modify the recipe to make it fit your diet—try gluten-free pasta or even toss in vegetables!
- Crowd-Pleaser: This pasta recipe is sure to win over family, friends and even the fussiest of eaters.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this creamy indulgence:
Main Ingredients:
- Pasta (400g/14 oz): Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine—pick your favorite!
- Chicken Breast (2 medium-sized): Sliced thinly for even cooking.
- Bacon (6 slices): Smoked or unsmoked, depending on your preference.
- Button Mushrooms (2 cups/200g): Freshly sliced for an earthy flavor.
- Heavy Cream (1 cup/240ml): For that luscious, creamy sauce.
- Chicken Broth (½ cup/120ml): Adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Finely grated for a nutty, salty kick.
Flavor Boosters:
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): A must for that aromatic touch.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Perfect for sautéing.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): Adds richness to the sauce.
- Salt & Black Pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to bring out the flavors.
- Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): Adds freshness and color.
Required Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Large skillet or frying pan (for sauce)
- Slotted spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs or silicone spatula for stirring
Instructions
Step 1: Get Your Ingredients Ready
- Cook the pasta per package instructions. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water. Set aside.
- As the pasta cooks, cut the chicken into thin strips, the bacon into bite-size pieces and the mushrooms into slices. Mince the garlic cloves.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add sliced bacon. Fry, until crispy, before removing with a slotted spoon, draining on a plate lined with paper towels. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the grease in the pan with the fat.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
- Place the chicken slices in the same skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken to a plate and keep it warm.
Step 4 : Add in Mushrooms and garlic
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and butter. When melted add the sliced mushrooms and garlic. Sauté until the mushrooms are tender and fragrant, about 5-6 minutes.
Step 5: Make the Cream Sauce
- Lower the heat slightly. Add the chicken broth and deglaze the pan, scraping any brown bits off the bottom. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken for 3 minutes then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Add the chicken and bacon back, along with the cooked pasta, to the skillet. Toss to coat with the sauce, adding a splash of pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Season with a little salt and pepper.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley, serve immediately for best results. And don’t forget a side of garlic bread to soak up that creamy, dreamy sauce!
Notes
How to Serve
This chicken bacon mushroom pasta is a meal all on its own, but here are some ways to enhance your experience:
- Wine Pairing: Creamy sauce calls for a crisp Chardonnay.
- Side Salads: A basic arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette is a great fit.
- Bread basket: Serve with warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 630 kcal
- Protein: 40g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing, boiling
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Leave out the chicken and bacon and use extra mushrooms or some diced zucchini instead for a meat-free version.
2. What’s the best pasta to use?
Pick robust pasta shapes that cling to the creamy sauce
3. Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop; you may have to add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
4. Should I use milk rather than cream?
Heavy cream is what makes the dish so luxurious, but you could use whole milk for a lighter meal. Just note the sauce won’t be as thick.
Boost Your Weeknight Dinner with Chicken Bacon Mushroom Pasta
This chicken bacon mushroom pasta is quick and easy and delicious! Loaded with hearty flavors and creamy comfort, it’s a perfect dinner to get everyone around the dinner table. Whether you’re a true novice to pasta recipes or a pro in search for something exciting, this dish will be a sure fire hit!