If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful meal that combines the richness of creamy Parmesan sauce with savory chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet corn, look no further. This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Corn, Bacon, and Parmesan Sauce is a family favorite that is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this dish will leave everyone coming back for more. Plus, I’ll include keto and low-carb variations so you can enjoy this meal even if you’re watching your carbs.
Ingredients
- 12 oz. pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, then crumble. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Chicken
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and simmer for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Combine the Ingredients
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, corn, and crumbled bacon back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir everything together until well coated.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Chicken Pasta with Corn, Bacon, and Parmesan Sauce!
Cooking Notes
- Bacon Substitute: If you don’t have bacon on hand, pancetta or turkey bacon can be great alternatives.
- Fresh Corn Option: If you have fresh corn available, feel free to use it instead of frozen corn. Simply slice the kernels off the cob and sauté them for a few minutes before adding them to the dish.
- Cheese Variations: If you prefer, you can swap out Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Variations
1. Keto Version
For those following a ketogenic diet, you can still enjoy the creamy richness of this dish. Here’s how:
- Swap the pasta: Instead of traditional pasta, use zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles, which are low in carbs.
- Omit the corn: Corn is high in carbohydrates, so omit it from the recipe.
- Add more veggies: You can add low-carb vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to make the dish even more nutrient-packed without adding extra carbs.
2. Low-Carb Version
If you’re aiming for a low-carb meal but don’t want to go full keto, consider these modifications:
- Low-carb pasta: Replace regular pasta with a low-carb alternative like chickpea pasta or spaghetti squash.
- Reduce corn: Instead of using 1 cup of corn, cut it down to ½ cup or less, and increase the amount of chicken or bacon.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. If you plan on making it in advance, store the pasta, chicken, bacon, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce gently over low heat and combine with the pasta and other ingredients before serving.
2. Can I freeze Creamy Chicken Pasta?
Freezing creamy sauces can sometimes cause them to separate, but you can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly in a saucepan while stirring occasionally.
3. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free pasta. There are many options available, such as pasta made from rice, corn, or lentils.
4. Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter?
Yes, if you want to reduce the calories, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce. However, the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
This Creamy Chicken Pasta pairs well with a light side salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread also makes a great side if you’re not concerned about carbs.
This Creamy Chicken Pasta with Corn, Bacon, and Parmesan Sauce is the perfect combination of comfort food and gourmet flavor. The blend of savory chicken, crispy bacon, sweet corn, and the creamy Parmesan sauce is irresistible. Whether you follow the classic recipe or try the keto or low-carb versions, this dish is adaptable for any dietary need. It’s perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or even a special occasion when you want to impress your guests. Be sure to save this recipe, as it’s one you’ll want to make again and again!
Make this recipe tonight and watch how quickly it becomes a household favorite! Don’t forget to share your version in the comments below