Imagine indulging in a creamy, rich pasta dish bursting with the savory flavors of chicken and bacon, but without the heaviness of cream. Welcome to the world of “Chicken and Bacon Pasta Without Cream” – a culinary masterpiece that proves you don’t need cream to create a luxuriously smooth and satisfying pasta sauce. This lighter, healthier version of a classic favorite delivers all the comfort and taste you crave, making it the perfect choice for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Chicken and Bacon Pasta Without Cream Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your preferred shape)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup (240ml) low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 2 cups baby spinach or halved cherry tomatoes
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
- In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces. Cook over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet. Add lemon juice, chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, add spinach or cherry tomatoes and cook until the spinach is wilted or the tomatoes are warmed through.
- Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Tips for Perfect Chicken and Bacon Pasta
- To avoid overcooking the chicken, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the pieces and don’t overcrowd the pan.
- The key to a creamy sauce without cream is the combination of starchy pasta water and Parmesan cheese. Don’t skip these ingredients!
- For maximum flavor, season at every step – salt the pasta water well, and taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken and Bacon Pasta Without Cream is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides:
- Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Accompany with garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up any extra sauce.
- For a more substantial meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a restaurant-quality presentation.
Benefits and Variations
Making this creamy pasta dish without cream offers several advantages:
- Lower in calories and fat compared to traditional cream-based pasta dishes
- Lighter on the stomach, reducing that heavy feeling often associated with creamy pastas
- Allows the flavors of the chicken, bacon, and herbs to shine through
- Quicker to prepare than recipes requiring a long simmering time for cream reduction
Try these variations to keep your pasta dishes exciting:
- Swap chicken for shrimp or turkey for a different protein option
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for added nutrition or dietary needs
- Add sun-dried tomatoes or artichoke hearts for a Mediterranean twist
- Incorporate different herbs like basil or thyme for varied flavor profiles
Conclusion
Chicken and Bacon Pasta Without Cream proves that you don’t need heavy ingredients to create a satisfying, creamy pasta dish. This recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, from the savory bacon to the tender chicken and the silky, cheese-infused sauce. It’s a versatile dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand, making it an ideal go-to recipe for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I store leftovers of this pasta dish? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat this pasta without losing its creamy texture? A: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free? A: Yes, you can use nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan alternative instead of Parmesan cheese. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be flavorful.
Q: Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian? A: Absolutely! Replace the chicken with mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and omit the bacon or use a plant-based bacon alternative.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken to make this dish even quicker? A: Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken. Simply add it to the sauce to warm through before serving.
Q: How can I make the sauce even creamier without adding cream? A: Try adding a tablespoon of cream cheese or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess without significantly increasing the calorie content.