Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach is an irresistible dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal. This one-pot wonder is easy to prepare and brings the delightful taste of garlic and spinach together with tender chicken. You can enjoy this dish on any occasion, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in one pot, saving you time on cleanup.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce elevates the taste of the chicken and spinach, creating a comforting meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have at home, making it adaptable to your pantry.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Great for leftovers, this dish keeps well in the fridge for easy reheating throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Offers ample space for cooking pasta and sauce together without splatter.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient amounts, leading to better flavor balance.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta

For the Sauce

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp garlic powder

How to Make Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
* Add cut chicken pieces to the pot.
* Season with salt and black pepper.
* Cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Once the chicken is cooked through:
* Stir in minced garlic and garlic powder.
* Sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked penne back into the pot with the chicken mixture:
* Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 5: Final Touches

Adjust seasoning if needed:
* Taste and add more salt or pepper as desired before serving.

Enjoy your Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach warm!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The creamy garlic sauce combined with tender chicken and penne pasta creates a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• item Serve warm, toasted garlic bread on the side for an extra burst of flavor and crunch.

Add a Fresh Salad

• item A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the creamy sauce.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• item Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top of the dish just before serving for added color and freshness.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• item For a more elegant presentation, serve the pasta in individual bowls, garnished with grated cheese.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Achieving the perfect creamy garlic chicken penne takes just a few simple tips to enhance the flavors and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and spinach really elevate the dish compared to dried or frozen options.
• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures your penne maintains its shape and texture while absorbing flavors from the sauce.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to add more salt and pepper to suit your preferences.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving can help meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Complement your creamy garlic chicken bacon penne with some delicious side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Garlic Butter Roasted Vegetables: Colorful veggies roasted in garlic butter are an excellent addition that adds nutrition and flavor.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with crispy croutons offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simply steamed broccoli adds a healthy touch and vibrant color to your plate.
4. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil provides a refreshing appetizer or side.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms make for a delightful finger food alongside your main dish.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings sweetness that pairs nicely with savory chicken penne.
7. Caprese Skewers: Easy-to-make skewers of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer freshness and flavor in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the pasta – Ensure you follow package instructions for al dente texture. Cooking it too long can lead to mushy pasta.
• Not seasoning properly – Taste as you go! A little salt and black pepper enhance flavor. Adjust according to your preference.
• Skipping the garlic – Fresh garlic adds depth. Don’t skip it or use too little; it’s essential for that creamy garlic flavor.
• Using low-quality chicken – Choose fresh, quality chicken breast for the best results. Frozen or previously cooked chicken may alter the dish’s texture.
• Ignoring the spinach – Spinach should be wilted but not overcooked. Add it at the right time to retain its vibrant color and nutrients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding this delicious recipe.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach without bacon?

Yes! You can omit bacon or substitute it with turkey bacon for a lighter option while still enjoying rich flavors.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne is ideal due to its shape that holds sauce well, but feel free to use any pasta you prefer such as fusilli or rigatoni.

How can I customize this Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach recipe?

Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or swap chicken for turkey or lamb for a different taste experience.

Is there a vegetarian version of Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with tofu or chickpeas and omit bacon. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach is a versatile dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. Enjoy the creamy goodness!