If you're looking for a creamy, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying pasta dish, this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need! Loaded with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a velvety cream cheese sauce, this dish is a comfort food dream that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner, this pasta is a crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. Let’s dive into this indulgent, flavor-packed dish!

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Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the Pasta:

• Pasta of choice (penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni) – 300g (10 oz)
• Salt – 1 teaspoon (for boiling water)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• Chicken breast, boneless & skinless – 450g (1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt & black pepper – to taste
• Garlic powder – 1 tsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Bacon, chopped – 6 slices
• Garlic, minced – 3 cloves
• Chicken broth – 250ml (1 cup)
• Cream cheese, softened – 170g (6 oz)
• Heavy cream – 120ml (½ cup)
• Parmesan cheese, grated – 60g (½ cup)
• Paprika – ½ tsp
• Red pepper flakes – ¼ teaspoon (optional, for heat)
• Spinach (optional) – 60g (2 cups), chopped

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for the sauce.

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Step 2: Cook the Chicken & Bacon

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. In the same skillet, add olive oil and the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes to deglaze the pan.
3. Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese, whisking until smooth.
4. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes (if using), stirring until the sauce is creamy and fully combined.

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Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the sauce, stirring to coat the noodles.
2. Return the chicken and crispy bacon to the pan, tossing everything together.
3. Stir in chopped spinach (if using) and let it cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

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Serving Suggestions

🍽️ Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a finishing touch.

🍷 Pairs well with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

🥗 Enjoy with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 580 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

(Nutritional values are approximate and vary based on ingredients used.)

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Tips & Tricks for the Best Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta

✔ Use Full-Fat Cream Cheese – It creates a rich and creamy texture that makes the sauce extra luxurious.

✔ Crisp the Bacon Well – Cook the bacon until it’s golden and crispy, as it adds a delicious crunch to contrast the creamy sauce.

✔ Reserve Pasta Water – This starchy water helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta.

✔ Add Vegetables – Try adding mushrooms, roasted tomatoes, or peas for extra flavor and texture.

✔ Make It Spicy – If you like heat, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick it up a notch.

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How to Store & Reheat

🧊 Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

🔥 Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.

🚫 Freezing: This dish is not ideal for freezing since the dairy-based sauce may separate when reheated.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.

✅ Rich & Creamy – The combination of cream cheese, Parmesan, and bacon creates an irresistible sauce.

✅ Crowd-Pleaser – Everyone from kids to adults will love this indulgent dish.

✅ Versatile – You can swap the chicken for shrimp or add different veggies for a new twist.