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Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach

Creamy Garlic Chicken Bacon Penne with Spinach is a delightful one-pot dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and vibrant spinach in a rich garlic cream sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this comforting meal is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a burst of flavor with every bite. The creamy sauce paired with savory bacon and fresh ingredients creates a satisfying experience that will please both kids and adults alike. Serve it up with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 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
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil and cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside.
  2. In the same pot with the drippings, add chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked (5-7 minutes).
  3. Stir in minced garlic and garlic powder; sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Add penne pasta along with enough water to cover it. Bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer. Cover and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  5. Mix in reserved bacon and fresh spinach until the spinach wilts.
  6. Garnish with parsley before serving.
  • Author: Natalia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: One-Pot Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 26g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Fresh ingredients enhance flavor; opt for quality chicken and spinach. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed. Customize by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.