Easy Chicken Bacon Spinach Penne Recipe

Start Your Easy Chicken Penne Recipe

Embarking on this easy chicken penne recipe promises a rewarding culinary experience without demanding hours in the kitchen. This dish is designed for those busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and homemade but are short on time. We’ll guide you through each step, ensuring a successful and delicious outcome. The combination of succulent chicken, savory bacon, and a luscious creamy sauce makes this a favorite for the whole family. Prepare to impress with minimal effort.

Prep Time: Quick and Simple

One of the greatest advantages of this chicken penne recipe is its minimal prep time. With just a few basic chopping tasks and ingredient gathering, you’ll be ready to start cooking in no time. We focus on efficient steps to get you from raw ingredients to a finished meal with ease. Gathering your ingredients beforehand, often called mise en place, will make the cooking process even smoother and more enjoyable. Think of it as setting the stage for your culinary masterpiece, ensuring every component is at your fingertips when you need it.

Total Time: Dinner Ready Fast

From start to finish, this chicken penne dish is designed to be on your table quickly. In less than 40 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal that satisfies everyone. This makes it an ideal option for weeknights, unexpected guests, or simply when you want a delightful dinner without the fuss. The straightforward cooking method means less time staring at a recipe and more time enjoying your food. For another quick weeknight option, consider our easy honey garlic chicken, perfect for busy schedules.

Gather Ingredients for Your Penne Dish

A successful chicken penne recipe begins with fresh, high-quality ingredients. While the dish is simple, the flavors truly shine when you select the best components. We’ll break down the essentials, ensuring you have everything needed to create a balanced and delicious meal. Don’t be afraid to adjust quantities slightly based on your preferences, but these guidelines will set you up for success. This preparation ensures that every bite is packed with the intended richness and freshness.

Main Pasta and Protein Needs

For the pasta, penne is the star, known for its ability to hold creamy sauces within its tubular shape. Aim for a good quality brand for the best texture. About 1 pound (450g) will serve 4-6 people generously. For protein, you’ll need boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Approximately 1.5 pounds (680g) is a good amount. And, of course, crispy bacon strips – about 6-8 slices – will add an incredible depth of smoky flavor and texture. The penne pasta, a tubular pasta shape, is perfect for holding the creamy sauce. Learn more about its history on Wikipedia.

Fresh Veggies and Dairy Staples

To balance the richness, we incorporate fresh vegetables. You’ll need a couple of cloves of garlic, minced, for aromatic depth. A generous handful of fresh spinach, about 5-6 ounces, will wilt beautifully into the sauce, adding color and nutrients. Sweet cherry tomatoes, halved, about 1 cup, bring a burst of acidity and freshness. For the creamy parmesan sauce, you’ll need heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Ensure your Parmesan is truly fresh for the best flavor and melting consistency.

How to Cook Penne Pasta

Cooking the penne pasta correctly is fundamental to the overall success of your chicken penne recipe. Overcooked pasta can turn mushy and lose its appeal, while perfectly al dente pasta provides a delightful chew that complements the creamy sauce and other ingredients beautifully. Follow these steps to achieve that ideal texture every time, making your dish truly stand out. The process is straightforward, but attention to detail makes all the difference.

Boiling Pasta Until Al Dente

Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt at this stage is crucial, as it seasons the pasta from within. Once boiling, add your penne pasta and stir immediately to prevent it from sticking together. Refer to the package instructions for the recommended cooking time, but typically, penne will cook for 10-12 minutes. The goal is “al dente,” which means “to the tooth” – slightly firm when bitten. To check for doneness, pull out a piece of pasta a minute or two before the suggested time and taste it. It should offer a slight resistance. Drain the pasta, but reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before discarding the rest; this starchy water can be used later to adjust the consistency of your sauce if needed.

Cook Chicken and Crispy Bacon

Developing rich flavors for your chicken penne recipe starts with perfectly cooked chicken and bacon. Each component adds its unique texture and taste, which will form the base of your creamy sauce. Paying attention to these steps ensures that your chicken is tender and juicy, and your bacon is crisp and full of smoky goodness. The rendered bacon fat will also be a key ingredient for sautéing vegetables, adding another layer of flavor.

Browning Chicken Pieces

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add your bite-sized chicken pieces, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of browning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it’s golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Season generously with salt and black pepper during this process. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate, leaving any delicious browned bits and juices in the pan – these are flavor gold.

Crisping Bacon in Skillet

Next, add the strips of bacon to the same skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon, flipping periodically, until it’s beautifully crispy and rendered its fat. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon. Once crispy, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cooled slightly, crumble the bacon into pieces. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat in the skillet; this will be used to sauté your vegetables and build the flavorful foundation for your sauce. If you enjoy chicken and bacon together, you might also like our chicken bacon ranch tater tot casserole.

Sauté Garlic, Spinach, and Tomatoes

The next crucial step in building the flavor profile for your chicken penne recipe involves sautéing the aromatics and fresh vegetables. By utilizing the leftover bacon fat, you infuse the entire dish with a subtle, smoky richness that elevates the creamy parmesan sauce. This quick sauté not only cooks the vegetables to perfection but also releases their natural sweetness and pungent notes, creating a balanced and vibrant component of the meal.

Wilting Spinach in Bacon Fat

Return the skillet with the reserved bacon fat to medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as burnt garlic can taste bitter. Immediately add the fresh spinach to the skillet. The residual heat and bacon fat will quickly wilt the spinach down. Stir continuously for 2-3 minutes, until the spinach is fully wilted and vibrant green. It will significantly reduce in volume, so don’t be alarmed by a large amount initially. This process adds an earthy note and beautiful color to the dish.

Softening Cherry Tomatoes

Once the spinach has wilted, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The tomatoes will begin to soften and release their juices, concentrating their sweet and slightly acidic flavor. This step brings a fresh, bright element that cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce, adding a delightful burst of flavor in every bite. Once the tomatoes are softened, your vegetable base is ready for the sauce creation.

Whip Up Creamy Parmesan Sauce

The creamy parmesan sauce is the heart of this easy chicken penne recipe, binding all the delicious ingredients together with its rich, savory embrace. Crafting a perfectly smooth and flavorful sauce is simpler than you might think, and it truly transforms the dish from good to extraordinary. Follow these steps carefully to achieve a sauce that is both decadent and balanced, providing a comforting warmth in every spoonful. The key is gentle heat and consistent stirring.

Simmering Cream and Broth

After sautéing your vegetables, pour the heavy cream and chicken broth into the same skillet. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Do not allow it to come to a rolling boil, as this can cause the cream to separate. A gentle simmer is all you need to start reducing the liquid slightly and concentrating the flavors. This step typically takes about 5-7 minutes, during which the sauce will begin to thicken slightly, creating a luscious base for the Parmesan cheese.

Melting Parmesan and Butter

Once the cream and broth are simmering, reduce the heat to low. Add the butter and the freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the butter has melted and the Parmesan cheese has fully dissolved into the sauce, creating a smooth and velvety consistency. Taste the sauce and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Remember that Parmesan cheese is already salty, so adjust accordingly. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water or a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. The star of this creamy parmesan sauce is undoubtedly Parmesan cheese, a hard, granular cheese from Italy. Read more about it on Wikipedia.

Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Bacon

With all your individual components perfectly prepared, the final stage of your chicken penne recipe is to bring them all together. This step is where the magic happens, as the pasta absorbs the creamy sauce and every ingredient mingles to create a harmonious and incredibly flavorful dish. The goal is to ensure everything is evenly coated and thoroughly heated through, ready for serving. This is the moment when all your hard work pays off, culminating in a truly satisfying meal.

Tossing Everything to Coat

Add the cooked penne pasta, the browned chicken pieces, and most of the crispy crumbled bacon (save a little for garnish) directly into the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss all the ingredients together until the pasta, chicken, and vegetables are thoroughly coated in the sauce. Ensure that the sauce is evenly distributed, clinging to every piece of penne. Continue to toss and heat for 1-2 minutes over low heat, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the sauce’s flavor and ensuring everything is warmed through. This brief period of gentle heating also helps to meld all the flavors together, creating a cohesive and delightful eating experience. This dish is a perfect example of the delicious dinner recipes we offer. For more pasta inspiration, check out this salmon spinach pasta dish.

Tips for Your Easy Chicken Penne

To truly elevate your easy chicken penne recipe, a few simple tips can make all the difference, transforming a great meal into an unforgettable one. From how you present it to what you serve alongside it, these suggestions are designed to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet night in, these thoughtful additions will make your meal more enjoyable and memorable.

Serving Suggestions for Dish

Serve your chicken penne immediately while it’s hot and the sauce is at its creamiest. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a touch of color and fresh herb flavor. For a complete meal, pair it with a light side salad dressed with a vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the pasta. A crusty baguette or garlic bread is also an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Consider offering extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who enjoy an extra cheesy kick.

Wine Pairings to Consider

When it comes to wine pairings, the creamy parmesan sauce and chicken offer versatility. A crisp, unoaked Chardonnay or a Pinot Grigio would be excellent choices, as their bright acidity can balance the richness of the cream. If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied Pinot Noir or a Sangiovese (like a Chianti) with its earthy notes and moderate tannins would complement the chicken and tomato elements without overpowering the delicate sauce. Avoid heavy, full-bodied reds, which might clash with the creamy texture.

Delicious Variations for Your Penne

One of the best aspects of this easy chicken penne recipe is its adaptability. While the classic version is undeniably delicious, it also serves as an excellent canvas for creative culinary experimentation. Don’t hesitate to customize it to suit your taste preferences, dietary needs, or whatever ingredients you have on hand. These variations can breathe new life into the dish, making it a versatile staple in your recipe repertoire.

Quick Shortcuts and Additions

For even quicker preparation, consider using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or pre-chopped garlic. You can also add other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or even frozen peas towards the end of cooking for extra nutrition and color. A dash of red pepper flakes can introduce a subtle heat, while a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving brightens all the flavors. Smoked paprika can add a deeper, smoky flavor profile if you want to enhance the bacon notes.

Gluten-Free and Veggie Options

Making this dish gluten-free is simple: just use your favorite gluten-free penne pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and bacon entirely. You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, chickpeas, or a plant-based chicken substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To maintain a creamy texture, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes for an umami boost or artichoke hearts for a different flavor dimension.

Storing Leftover Chicken Bacon Penne

Having leftovers of this delicious chicken penne recipe is a treat, providing another easy meal for a busy day. Proper storage is key to maintaining its freshness and flavor. Follow these guidelines to ensure your stored meal is just as enjoyable as the freshly cooked dish. Understanding the nuances of refrigeration and freezing will help you minimize waste and maximize your culinary enjoyment.

Refrigerating and Reheating Meals

Allow any leftover chicken penne to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently to prevent the sauce from breaking or drying out. For individual portions, microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For larger quantities, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk, cream, or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy consistency.

Freezing Notes for Sauce

While the creamy parmesan sauce can be frozen, dairy-based sauces sometimes separate or become grainy upon thawing and reheating. If you plan to freeze, it’s often best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta and chicken, or be prepared to whisk it vigorously and perhaps add a bit more cream or broth when reheating to bring it back together. Store in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Adding a thickener like a cornstarch slurry before freezing can sometimes help maintain texture.

Prep Time and Nutrition Info

Understanding the practical aspects of any recipe, such as preparation time and nutritional content, helps in meal planning and healthy eating. This chicken penne recipe is not only flavorful but also relatively quick to assemble, making it a great option for those seeking efficiency without compromising on taste. We’ll outline the approximate times and provide general nutritional insight to help you integrate this dish into your lifestyle.

Quick Preparation Steps

The total active prep time for this chicken penne recipe is quite manageable, typically around 15-20 minutes. This includes dicing the chicken, chopping the bacon, mincing garlic, and halving cherry tomatoes. While the pasta cooks, you’ll be browning the chicken and bacon, making the process highly efficient. Having all your ingredients ready (mise en place) before you start cooking can shave even more time off, allowing for a seamless transition between steps.

Per Serving Calorie Count

The calorie count per serving can vary depending on precise ingredient measurements, brands used, and portion sizes. However, a general estimate for a generous serving of this chicken penne with creamy parmesan sauce, chicken, bacon, and vegetables would be approximately 550-700 calories. This hearty dish is rich in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. For precise nutritional information, it’s recommended to use an online recipe calculator with your specific ingredients. Adjusting cream or cheese quantities can help manage the calorie content if desired.

Enjoy Your Easy Chicken Penne Recipe

You’ve successfully prepared a delectable easy chicken penne recipe, a testament to how simple yet satisfying home cooking can be. This dish, bursting with creamy, savory flavors and fresh ingredients, is ready to be the star of your dinner table. Take a moment to appreciate your culinary achievement before diving in. Remember, cooking should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience, and this recipe delivers on both fronts.

Garnish and Serve Hot

Before serving, give your chicken penne one final flourish. A fresh sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or basil not only adds a vibrant green contrast but also introduces a fresh, aromatic note that enhances the overall flavor profile. A generous grating of extra Parmesan cheese over each serving is always a welcome addition for cheese lovers. Serve the penne immediately, allowing everyone to enjoy it while the sauce is warm and creamy. Pair it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for a truly complete and comforting meal. For more culinary inspiration and beautiful food photography, follow us on Pinterest. And don’t forget to tag us in your creations on Instagram!