This creamy chicken corn pasta is a delightful meal packed with flavor. It features tender chicken, sweet corn, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy sauce that hugs every noodle.
Who doesn’t love bacon? I always sneak extra pieces for a tasty treat. This dish is so easy to make—just cook everything together, and dinner is ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle is a fun shape for this dish, but any pasta—like penne or fusilli—will work just fine. Choose what you have on hand!
Bacon: Bacon brings that delicious crunch and flavor. You could swap it for turkey bacon, pancetta, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Chicken Thighs: I love using thighs for their juiciness. Chicken breast works if you prefer leaner meat, but it might be slightly less tender.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds a nice kick! If you don’t have it, mix paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne for a similar effect. Italian seasoning is also a workable alternative.
Heavy Cream: To keep it lighter, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Just remember, it will change the taste slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken for This Pasta?
Cooking the chicken can seem tricky, but it’s simple! The key is to get a nice sear for flavor. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken; this helps lock in juices.
- Toss the chicken in seasoning first, then add to the skillet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd it!
- Cook until browned and no longer pink inside, about 6-8 minutes. If unsure, cut one piece to check.
Letting the chicken rest before cutting helps keep it juicy. This way, it blends perfectly into the creamy sauce!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta with Bacon?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 4 slices bacon
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (or your preferred spice blend)
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears) or frozen corn, thawed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh oregano or parsley leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 20 minutes cooking everything until it’s a delicious, creamy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it becomes crispy. This should take around 6-8 minutes. Once crispy, take the bacon out of the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain any excess fat. Don’t forget to save about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet—this adds delicious flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Using the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the reserved bacon fat. Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning to coat them evenly. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and no longer pink. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Corn:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the fresh corn kernels and cook until they are slightly golden, which will take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it smells wonderful!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer, cooking for 3-5 minutes until it slightly thickens.
6. Add Cheese and Seasoning:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and creates a creamy sauce. Taste the sauce, and add salt and pepper as needed.
7. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Mix everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
8. Add Bacon and Garnish:
Fold in the crispy bacon pieces, reserving a little for garnish if you’d like. Finally, sprinkle fresh oregano or parsley leaves on top for a lovely touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your creamy chicken corn pasta with bacon is ready to be served! Dish it out while it’s warm and enjoy this flavorful meal!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Corn Pasta with Bacon
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta adds a fun texture, you can easily substitute it with other pasta types like penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the type of pasta you choose!
Can I Substitute the Bacon?
Yes, you can! If you want to keep it lighter, turkey bacon is a great alternative. For vegetarian options, consider using sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika to infuse some flavor without the meat.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them along with the corn for a delightful twist!
