Let me tell you, this pasta dish is like a warm hug in a bowl. Imagine tender chicken nestled in creamy, dreamy sauce, with crispy bacon and spinach peeking through like unexpected guests at a dinner party. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to kick off your shoes and savor every bite, maybe even with a glass of your favorite wine in hand.
Steps
- Shred the Parmesan cheese and allow it to reach room temperature. Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Butterfly the chicken breast into two thinner pieces and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear the chicken in the skillet until both sides are golden brown and cooked through, then set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and cook the bacon in the same skillet until crispy on both sides. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan.
- Boil water in a separate pot and cook the penne according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Add minced garlic to the bacon grease in the skillet and cook for one minute. Gradually whisk in flour, stirring constantly.
- Heat half and half in the microwave for 30 seconds, then add it to the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high, stirring until the mixture starts to bubble, then reduce to low.
- Slowly add shredded Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring until well combined. Add cherry tomatoes, spinach, and optional red pepper flakes, cooking until the tomatoes soften.
- Gently mix the cooked penne into the sauce. Slice the chicken into strips and place it on top of the pasta.
- Crumble the cooked bacon over the dish and serve immediately.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a mix of thyme, oregano, and basil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 strips of bacon
- 3/4 pound penne pasta
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half and half
- 1 1/3 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Nutritional Values
Calories: 688kcal | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 27g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 67mg | Sodium: 741mg | Potassium: 511mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 2285IU | Vitamin C: 13.9mg | Calcium: 524mg | Iron: 2.4mg
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Certainly! While penne is recommended for this recipe, you can substitute it with any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or rotini. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions.
- How can I make the Alfredo sauce extra creamy?
- To achieve an extra creamy Alfredo sauce, avoid mixing cold ingredients with the warm pasta. Use freshly shredded high-quality Parmesan cheese, let it reach room temperature, and add it gradually to the warm sauce base.
- Can I freeze the Chicken Bacon Spinach Pasta?
- Yes, you can freeze this dish, though cream-based sauces may alter in texture once reheated. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months, but keep in mind the consistency might change.
- How do I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
- Leftovers should be kept in an airtight container and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to enjoy again.
- What can I do if I want to add more spice to the dish?
- If you prefer a spicier dish, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste. Feel free to experiment with other spices or hot sauces to achieve your desired level of heat.
Tips
- Use Freshly Shredded Parmesan: Opt for a high-quality block of Parmesan cheese and shred it yourself. This enhances both the taste and the meltability of the cheese, ensuring a smoother Alfredo sauce.
- Warm Ingredients for Creaminess: Avoid adding cold ingredients into the warm pasta. Allow the cheese and half and half to reach room temperature before incorporating them into the sauce to achieve a richer, creamier consistency.
- Cook Bacon Slowly: For perfectly crispy bacon, cook it over low heat. This method ensures even cooking and prevents burning, enhancing the flavor of the overall dish.
- Prepare Chicken with Care: When searing the chicken, resist the urge to move it around in the pan. This ensures a beautiful, golden-brown sear that locks in juices and flavor.
Equipment
- Large Cast-Iron Skillet – Essential for searing the chicken and cooking the bacon.
- Silicone Spatula – Useful for gently mixing ingredients without scratching non-stick surfaces.
- Tongs – Handy for flipping bacon and moving chicken without piercing it.
- Whisk – Important for whisking flour into the sauce and ensuring a smooth Alfredo sauce.
