This creamy chicken corn pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! With tender chicken, sweet corn, and crispy bacon, it’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please.
I love how quickly it comes together. Just cook up the pasta, mix in the chicken and corn, and finish it off with some bacon. Perfect for busy weeknights or any day you need some coziness! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle adds a fun shape to the dish, but you can swap it for penne or rigatoni if that’s what you have. The goal is to have a pasta that holds onto the creamy sauce.
Chicken: Boneless thighs give a nice flavor and remain juicy, but you could use chicken breasts or even rotisserie chicken for speed. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time!
Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky crunch, but turkey bacon or even pancetta work well too. If you want a vegetarian option, you might skip it entirely or try adding smoked paprika for flavor.
Corn: Fresh corn brings sweetness and a pop of texture. If corn is out of season, frozen corn does just fine – just thaw it before using. Canned corn works in a pinch too!
Heavy Cream: If you want a lighter version, try half-and-half or even evaporated milk. Coconut milk can substitute for a dairy-free option, giving a unique twist to the flavor.
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken so it’s juicy and tender is key to this pasta dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces; this helps them cook evenly.
- Season well with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika for added flavor.
- Heat the skillet to medium heat and let it get hot before adding the chicken. Searing gives a nice brown crust.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink inside.
- Remove them from the skillet when done to prevent overcooking while you prepare the sauce.
By following these steps, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken to mix with the creamy sauce in no time!
Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta with Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz farfalle (bowtie) pasta
For The Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For The Bacon and Corn:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (from about 2 ears of corn) or frozen and thawed
For The Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or oregano)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Cooking this delicious pasta dish will take about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and cooking the pasta, then about 20 minutes to cook the chicken, bacon, and sauce. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy, which should take about 5-6 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Keep the bacon fat in the skillet as it adds flavor!
3. Sear the Chicken:
If needed, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet with the leftover bacon fat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Next, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. This step will infuse the oil with a lovely garlic flavor.
5. Cook the Corn:
Add the fresh corn kernels to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re slightly golden and tender. If you’re using frozen corn, make sure it’s thawed first!
6. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring it together with the corn and garlic. Let the cream warm gently for about 2 minutes, which will help it integrate beautifully.
7. Add Cheese and Season:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and becomes smooth. Take a moment to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.
8. Combine Everything:
Now return the cooked chicken, crispy bacon, and drained pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Make sure every piece is covered!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish the dish with your chopped fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately while it’s warm and creamy. Enjoy your hearty meal filled with delicious flavors of bacon and sweet corn!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta with Bacon
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle is great for this dish, you can easily swap it for other pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni. Just make sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider using whole-grain pasta, lowering the amount of bacon, or substituting some of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables, like spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrients!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prep components ahead. Cook the chicken, bacon, and corn, and store them separately in the fridge. Just combine them with pasta and sauce when ready to serve!
