This creamy chicken and corn pasta is a warm hug in a bowl! Loaded with tender chicken, sweet corn, and crispy bacon, it’s a treat for the whole family.
I love how quick this dish comes together. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and delicious without a fuss. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Farfalle adds a nice texture, but feel free to swap with any pasta you like, such as penne or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the pasta type!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this dish. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier result or even rotisserie chicken if you want to save time.
Bacon: For a smoky flavor, crispy bacon is a must. You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option or even use diced pancetta for a different twist.
Corn: Fresh corn gives a sweet pop, but frozen corn works just as well and is super convenient. Just toss it in straight from the bag!
Cheese: Cheddar adds richness, but you could use mozzarella for a gooey texture or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a nutty flavor. Mix and match!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but the key is to watch it closely. Start with medium-high heat to get nice browning without drying it out. Here are some steps to follow:
- Cut the chicken into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan while cooking–this helps with browning.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes until no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer; 165°F is safe!
This careful technique will keep your chicken juicy and flavorful in your creamy pasta dish!
How to Make Creamy Chicken And Corn Pasta With Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz farfalle pasta (or pasta of your choice)
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels (or frozen corn)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken and corn pasta recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a delicious weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until crispy, then remove any excess grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan. This will add flavor to your dish!
4. Add the Corn and Cream:
Next, add the corn to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until heated through. Then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Melt the Cheese:
Reduce the heat, then sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything well to combine and heat through for a couple of minutes.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Serve your creamy chicken and corn pasta warm. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for that extra touch. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! If using frozen corn, just add it directly to the skillet in step 5. There’s no need to thaw it first; it will heat through just fine during the sautéing process. This saves you time and still gives you that sweet corn flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour for thickness. Just keep in mind that the final dish will be slightly lighter in flavor and creaminess!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it if it thickens up too much!
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or peas along with the corn in step 5. Just make sure to sauté them for an appropriate amount of time to ensure they are tender before adding the cream and chicken broth.
