Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon

Tender chicken and sweet corn come together in this Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon dish, delivering a family-friendly dinner that feels restaurant-quality. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe combines rich flavors and creamy textures to create a comforting meal everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of tender chicken, sweet corn, and creamy Parmesan sauce creates a hearty dish packed with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or served alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and mild flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Easy Cleanup: With just one skillet needed for the cooking process, cleanup is a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the necessary tools before getting started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Heavy-bottomed skillet
• Heatproof bowl
• Tongs
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed skillet: Ensures even cooking and prevents burning while sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta efficiently without crowding.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta

• 10 oz farfalle (bow-tie pasta)

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lb chicken thighs or breasts (skinless, boneless)
• 1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• Freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups corn kernels, cooked (4 corn ears – corn on the cob)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup heavy cream

For Finishing Touches

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 strips bacon, cooked
• Fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, or marjoram) for garnish

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions (usually about 10 or 12 minutes).
3. Drain when the pasta is done. Proceed with the rest of the recipe while you wait for the water to boil.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese

1. Shred ½ cup of Parmesan cheese.
2. If using pre-shredded cheese, take it out of the fridge to warm slightly; this helps it melt better in the sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Slice chicken thighs into thinner strips.
2. Generously season with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
4. Add chicken and cook for about 4 or 5 minutes per side until completely cooked through.
5. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add cooked corn kernels along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
2. Stir and cook on low heat for about 3 minutes to blend flavors.
3. Remove half of the corn kernels to a plate.
4. Add 1 cup of heavy cream to skillet with remaining half of corn kernels; bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in shredded Parmesan cheese until melted.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add drained pasta into the sauce mixture along with cooked chicken.
2. Top with chopped cooked bacon and reserved corn kernels.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or marjoram before serving.

Enjoy your Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta as a delightful meal that brings comfort at any dining occasion!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon

Serving this creamy chicken and corn pasta is a delightful experience. The rich flavors of the dish pair beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes, enhancing the overall meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with fresh herbs: Add chopped thyme, oregano, or marjoram on top for a burst of freshness.
• Serve with lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the creamy sauce.

Crusty Bread

• Pair with garlic bread: The crunchiness complements the softness of the pasta.
• Serve with a baguette: A sliced baguette is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Side Salads

• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Caesar salad: The classic flavors of Caesar dressing add a nice touch.

Wine Pairing (Non-Alcoholic)

• Sparkling grape juice: This non-alcoholic option adds a festive touch to your meal.
• Herbal iced tea: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate between bites.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon

To make this creamy chicken and corn pasta even better, follow these handy tips for perfection.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and sweet corn enhance flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook it al dente for the best bite and texture in your dish.
• Warm cheese before adding: Warming shredded Parmesan helps it melt smoothly into the sauce.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Always taste your dish before serving; add more salt or pepper if needed.
• Add extra veggies: Consider adding bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Make ahead for convenience: This dish keeps well in the fridge; simply reheat before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon

Complementing your creamy chicken and corn pasta is easy with these delicious side dishes. They provide balance and enhance your dining experience.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce paired with creamy dressing adds a nice crunch.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to rich pasta.
5. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings depth to the meal.
6. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a tangy counterpart to the creamy pasta dish.
7. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn mirrors the sweet corn in your main dish, enhancing flavor harmony.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers and herbs can add texture while keeping it healthy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon can be simple, but it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using cold cheese: If you add cold cheese directly from the fridge, it may not melt properly. Always allow the cheese to warm up a bit before adding it to the sauce.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can ruin its texture. Make sure to follow package instructions and keep an eye on it while cooking.

• Skipping seasoning: It’s crucial to season the chicken well before cooking. Skipping this step can lead to bland results. Don’t be afraid to use enough salt and pepper!

• Not using fresh herbs: Fresh herbs enhance flavor significantly. Consider adding them just before serving to maximize their impact.

• Ignoring chicken doneness: Ensure your chicken is cooked through by using a meat thermometer. Undercooked chicken can be unsafe, so aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store in an airtight container.
• item Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon

• item Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• item Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and place in a baking dish covered with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated throughout. Add a splash of cream or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon:

Can I make Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta without bacon?

Yes! You can omit bacon or replace it with turkey bacon or crispy chickpeas for a lighter option.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Farfalle (bow-tie pasta) is commonly used, but you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or fusilli.

How can I customize the flavors of Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. You could also experiment with different herbs.

Can I use leftover chicken in this recipe?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds wonderful flavor.

Is there a dairy-free substitute for the cream?

You can use coconut cream or cashew cream as dairy-free alternatives that still create a rich texture.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This dish brings together tender chicken, sweet corn, and creamy sauce into one satisfying meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or alternative proteins to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!