Imagine a dish so creamy, so perfectly balanced, that it transforms an ordinary dinner into a culinary masterpiece. This Chicken Bacon Mushroom Pasta is not just a meal—it's a flavor explosion that combines crispy bacon, tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and a luxurious cream sauce that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate foodie, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality deliciousness in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy and golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
- In the same skillet with bacon fat, add diced chicken breast. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is fully cooked and golden on the outside.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the chicken and sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in heavy cream. Stir to combine and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces over the pasta and gently mix. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnishing with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Always reserve some pasta water before draining—the starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating a silky, clingy sauce.
- Cook bacon first to render its fat, which adds incredible flavor to the chicken and mushrooms.
- Use medium-high heat when cooking chicken to achieve a beautiful golden exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
- Don't rush the mushroom sautéing—letting them release their moisture ensures they're perfectly tender.
- For extra richness, consider using a blend of heavy cream and half-and-half.
- Optional garnishes like fresh parsley or grated Parmesan can elevate the dish's presentation and flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 584kcal
Carbohydrates: 44g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 155mg
