Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and you’re craving something comforting yet indulgent, like a hug in pasta form. That’s exactly what my Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta delivers—creamy, savory, and packed with flavor that makes everyone at the table go silent in the best way possible. I’ve been making variations of this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta for years, ever since I discovered how cream cheese can transform a simple chicken and bacon dish into something downright addictive. If you’re tired of the same old spaghetti, this recipe is your new go-to.
What I love most about preparing Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta is how it comes together in under 30 minutes, using pantry staples you likely already have. It’s hearty enough for a family dinner but elegant for date night too. Let’s dive into this delicious Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta recipe—trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen rotation. For more quick chicken ideas, check out our Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta or the White Cheddar Chicken Pasta.
Key Takeaways:
- Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta is a creamy, bacon-infused comfort dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Ready in just 25-30 minutes with minimal prep, making it ideal for busy schedules.
- The rich flavors from bacon and cream cheese create an irresistible taste that’s savory and satisfying.
- Use fresh garlic and don’t skip the pasta water for the silkiest sauce texture.
- Stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently to keep the creaminess intact.
Why You’ll Adore This Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s nothing quite like the creamy embrace of cheese and bacon wrapped around tender chicken and pasta. This dish feels like a warm blanket on a chilly evening, and I’ve seen even picky eaters devour it. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table.
Quick and Easy Prep: Who has time for hours in the kitchen? With straightforward steps, you can whip up this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta without breaking a sweat. In my experience, it’s a lifesaver after a long day—minimal cleanup too!
Customizable Flavors: Whether you add a kick of spice or keep it mild, this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta adapts to your taste. The bacon adds that smoky crunch, while the cream cheese ensures every bite is luxuriously smooth. It’s versatile enough for kids or adults alike.
Family Favorite: Let’s be honest, bacon makes everything better, and paired with chicken and pasta, it’s a winner. I’ve made this for potlucks, and it always gets rave reviews. You might find yourself doubling the recipe next time!
Essential Ingredients for Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Cream Cheese: The star of this show, cream cheese melts into a velvety sauce that coats every strand of pasta beautifully. It adds a tangy richness without overpowering the other flavors, making your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta irresistibly creamy. I always opt for full-fat for the best texture, but light versions work in a pinch—just stir extra well to avoid lumps.
Bacon: Crispy bacon bits bring that salty, smoky crunch that’s pure heaven in this dish. Chopped and cooked until golden, it infuses the entire Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta with depth and a satisfying bite. Don’t skimp here; thick-cut bacon holds up best during the cooking process.
Chicken Breast: Tender, juicy chicken provides a lean protein base that balances the richness of the sauce. Diced and seared quickly, it absorbs the flavors from the bacon and cream cheese, elevating your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta to main-course status. Season it simply with salt and pepper for maximum taste.
How to Make Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Prep and Cook the Bacon and Chicken
Start by chopping your bacon into small pieces and adding it to a large skillet over medium heat—watch it sizzle as the fat renders out, filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma. Once it’s crispy, about 5-7 minutes, remove it with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving a couple tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan. Next, dice the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces, season with salt and pepper, and toss them into the same skillet to brown for 6-8 minutes until cooked through. This step builds layers of flavor that make your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta so special; in my experience, high heat gives the best sear without drying out the meat.
Boil the Pasta and Make the Base
While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to package instructions, aiming for al dente—usually 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining; it’s gold for thinning the sauce later. In the skillet with the chicken, add minced garlic and diced onion, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant and softened, releasing their sweet, earthy notes that mingle perfectly with the bacon remnants.
Combine with Cream Cheese Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese blocks, letting them melt slowly into the pan juices—add a splash of milk or cream to help it along, creating that lush, golden sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta, bacon, and a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen everything up, stirring until every piece is coated in creamy goodness. This is where the magic happens in your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta; taste and adjust seasoning with a pinch of pepper or herbs if needed, then serve hot for the coziest meal. For a similar creamy twist, try our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, fresh parsley for garnish
Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Instructions
- Cook chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside, leaving grease in pan.
- Add diced chicken to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onion for 2 minutes. Stir in cream cheese and milk, melting until smooth.
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, reserve 1 cup water, then drain.
- Combine pasta, chicken, bacon, and sauce in the skillet. Add reserved water if needed. Heat through and serve.
Pro Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Reserve Pasta Water: That starchy liquid is key to achieving a silky sauce without it separating—add it gradually as you mix.
Cook Bacon First: Using the bacon fat to sear the chicken infuses your dish with extra flavor; just don’t overcrowd the pan.
Melt Cheese Slowly: Low heat prevents curdling, ensuring your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta stays smooth and creamy.
You Must Know
- This recipe serves 4 and totals around 550 calories per serving, making it indulgent but balanced.
- Cream cheese acts as a stabilizer in the sauce, preventing it from breaking under heat.
- Bacon should be cooked to crisp for texture contrast against the creamy elements.
- Freshly ground pepper enhances the savory notes without overpowering.
How to Store Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Once cooled, transfer your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days—any longer, and the cream sauce might separate. For freezing, portion it into freezer bags for up to 2 months, though the texture of the pasta can soften upon thawing. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk, stirring until creamy again, or microwave in short bursts.
Customizing Your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Swap chicken for shrimp or turkey if you’re varying proteins, keeping the cook time short to avoid toughness. Add veggies like spinach or broccoli right into the sauce for a nutrient boost—I’ve done this and it still tastes amazing. For a spicier version, stir in red pepper flakes; check out our Southwest Chicken Alfredo for inspiration. Your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta will shine with these tweaks.
What to Serve with Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, adding freshness to balance the meal. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect for sopping up any extra sauce—trust me, you’ll want every drop. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay pairs beautifully, or go non-alcoholic with iced tea. Round it out with roasted veggies if you want more sides.
Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
A rich, creamy one-pot pasta dish featuring chicken, bacon, and a luscious cream cheese sauce.
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 1 package spaghetti ((16-ounce))
- 02 5 slices bacon (thick cut)
- 03 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 04 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 05 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 06 1 cup milk
- 07 1 package cream cheese ((8-ounce), cut into cubes)
- 08 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 09 salt
- 10 pepper
Instructions
Cook the pasta to al dente, according to the package instructions, and set aside.
In a large skillet, over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels, keeping the bacon drippings in the pan. Crumble and set aside.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper and sear in the bacon grease over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 2 to 4 minutes on each side or until brown. Work in batches if necessary to prevent crowding the pan. Remove chicken from pan using tongs or a slotted spoon to allow bacon grease to remain in the pan. Place chicken on a plate. Set aside.
Lower the heat to low and add the minced garlic. Cook in the bacon grease until fragrant - just about 1 minute - being cautious not to burn the garlic. Add the chicken broth and milk. Stir to combine. Add the cream cheese and cover the pan. Cook for a few minutes or until cream cheese is nearly melted. Use a whisk to combine the sauce. Finally, add parmesan cheese to the pan and whisk together. Simmer, uncovered, over low heat until sauce thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste. Return chicken and crumbled bacon to the pan along with the pasta and toss together. Serve immediately.
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NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Can I make Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can prep the components up to a day in advance—cook the bacon and chicken, then store separately. Assemble and heat just before serving to keep the pasta from getting mushy. It’s a great make-ahead for busy weeks.
How long does Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta last in the fridge?
It keeps well for 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. The cream cheese sauce might firm up, so stir in a little milk when reheating. Avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Is Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta gluten-free?
Not by default, due to the pasta, but swap in gluten-free noodles and it’s easy to adapt. Check labels on cream cheese too, as some brands have additives. We’ve tested it this way and the texture holds up great.
Can I use turkey bacon in this recipe?
Yes, turkey bacon works as a leaner alternative in your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta, just cook it a bit longer to crisp. It brings a similar smoky flavor without as much fat. Adjust seasoning if needed for taste.
What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?
Penne or rigatoni are ideal because their tubes hold the creamy sauce well. Fettuccine is another favorite for twirling. Avoid super thin spaghetti—it might not capture the sauce as nicely.
How do I make Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta dairy-free?
Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free version and use plant-based milk like almond or oat. For extra cheesiness in your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta, add nutritional yeast. It mimics the original closely.
Can kids eat this recipe?
Definitely—it’s mild and comforting, like mac and cheese with extras. Chop pieces small for little ones and reduce salt if desired. My family loves it as a picky-eater pleaser.
Why is my sauce separating?
High heat or not stirring enough can cause it; always melt on low and whisk constantly. Add cold milk gradually next time for smoother results in your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta.
Final Thoughts
From the first crispy bite of bacon to the last creamy swirl of pasta, this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta has won me over time and again—it’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly appealing. I hope you give it a whirl in your kitchen soon; you won’t regret it. Drop a comment below if you try it, and happy cooking!