There’s something undeniably satisfying about a big bowl of creamy pasta—especially when it comes together in just 20 minutes. This quick creamy chicken bacon pasta delivers all the comfort of a slow-simmered dish, but it’s lightning-fast, weeknight-friendly, and made with simple pantry staples. Juicy chicken, smoky turkey bacon, and a silky Parmesan cream sauce come together with perfectly cooked fettuccine in one beautiful skillet. No flour, no fuss—just flavor-packed, real food you can get on the table before anyone can ask, “What’s for dinner?”
Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly evening or just need a low-effort dinner that feels like a treat, this pasta is your new go-to. It’s rich but not heavy, simple but far from boring—and best of all, made in just one pan (plus your pasta pot).
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Quick Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta That’s Ready in 20 Minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
Description
A rich, satisfying pasta dish made in just 20 minutes with juicy chicken breast, smoky turkey bacon, and a creamy Parmesan sauce. This quick creamy chicken bacon pasta is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something fast, comforting, and deeply flavorful.
Ingredients
6 ounces fettuccine or other long pasta
5–7 ounces turkey bacon, chopped
6 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced horizontally
1 tablespoon butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 small onion, finely chopped
3/4 cup heavy cream
3/4 cup reserved pasta cooking water
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
To Serve:
Chopped fresh parsley
Extra grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of well-salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions, stopping about 2 minutes early. Before draining, scoop out about 1 cup of the pasta water and set aside. Drain the pasta.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the turkey bacon until lightly crisp, then transfer to a plate lined with paper towels.
3. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, cook the chicken for about 2 minutes per side, until golden and just cooked through. Remove and slice into bite-sized pieces.
4. Wipe out the skillet if needed, then melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and lightly golden. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the cream, about 3/4 cup of the reserved pasta water, and the Parmesan cheese. Stir well and let the sauce gently simmer for about 2 minutes, until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Add the pasta to the skillet and toss gently for 1–2 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat and thicken around the noodles. Add more pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.
7. Stir in the chicken and turkey bacon until everything is well combined and heated through.
8. Serve immediately, topped with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting results.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add more reserved pasta water 1 tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
For a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half for the cream, though the sauce may be thinner.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy Dinners
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Why This Quick Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta Is a Weeknight Hero
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Every element works overtime to bring deep flavor with minimal effort, and there’s no complicated technique required.
Creamy comfort in just one pan
With a buttery garlic-onion base, this pasta builds flavor fast without needing hours of simmering. The cream sauce is a quick blend of heavy cream, salty Parmesan, and a splash of pasta water to keep everything velvety and smooth. It clings beautifully to every strand of fettuccine without feeling overly rich. And because it’s all done in the same skillet, there’s less cleanup and more time to enjoy the meal.
Using turkey bacon for a flavorful twist
Traditional bacon can be overpowering, but turkey bacon brings just enough smokiness to the party—crispy around the edges, but leaner and lighter. It offers that familiar salty bite while keeping the sauce from becoming too greasy, making it ideal for a balanced, satisfying dish that won’t weigh you down.
A satisfying dinner with simple ingredients
You probably already have everything you need: pasta, chicken breast, garlic, onion, cream, cheese, and bacon. These everyday staples transform into something special when cooked with care. There’s no hidden prep or specialty ingredients—just honest food with comforting results.
The Best Ingredients for Quick Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta
Even simple dishes benefit from thoughtful ingredient choices. Here’s how to make every component count in this creamy chicken bacon pasta.
Choosing the right pasta shape
Fettuccine is the ideal canvas for this sauce. Its wide ribbons soak up all that creamy goodness, but other long noodles like linguine or tagliatelle will work just as well. Short pastas, like penne or rigatoni, can also be used if that’s what you have on hand—just know the texture will be a little different. The key is cooking the pasta al dente and saving that golden pasta water to finish the sauce.
Why turkey bacon works beautifully
Not only is turkey bacon leaner, but it also crisps up faster, making it a time-saver too. It adds depth and texture to each bite, especially when stirred back into the sauce just before serving. The contrast of salty bacon against creamy cheese is hard to beat, and using turkey keeps it from overwhelming the delicate flavor of the chicken.
Heavy cream vs alternatives
Heavy cream is what gives this sauce its luxurious texture and silky body. While you can swap in half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter version, nothing quite compares to the richness of the real deal. The key is balance—you’re using less than a cup, and thinning it with pasta water keeps the sauce light and pourable.
Mastering the Creamy Sauce Without Fuss
One of the most rewarding parts of this recipe is how effortlessly the sauce comes together—no flour, no roux, no long reduction.
Balancing cream, pasta water, and cheese
Pasta water is the secret weapon here. Its starches help emulsify the sauce, turning cream and Parmesan into a glossy, restaurant-style finish. Start by adding about ¾ cup of the reserved pasta water, then more as needed to get the texture just right. The cheese melts into the cream and thickens the sauce without clumping.
Building flavor from garlic and onions
A quick sauté of garlic and finely chopped onion lays the foundation. Butter adds richness, while the onion’s sweetness plays off the savory chicken and bacon. Garlic adds its usual magic—but only needs 30 seconds to bloom in the pan before you pour in the cream.
How to avoid curdling or separating
Keep the heat moderate once the cream is added. A gentle simmer is all you need—boiling too aggressively can cause the dairy to break. Stir often, and don’t walk away from the pan during this step. In just 2 minutes, you’ll have a rich, silky sauce ready to coat every bite.
Tips to Elevate Your Chicken Bacon Pasta Game
The little things make a big difference in this deceptively simple dish. With a few pro moves, you can take it from good to unforgettable.
Don’t skip the pasta water magic
It might be tempting to drain the pasta and toss the water—but this one ingredient brings everything together. That extra starch is your shortcut to a creamy sauce that clings instead of pools. Start with a generous splash and add more until the consistency feels just right.
Resting and slicing the chicken perfectly
Cooking the chicken in the same skillet after the bacon means it’s picking up all those smoky flavors. Just two minutes per side is enough for thin-sliced chicken breast. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing—this keeps it juicy and ensures each piece stays tender when tossed back into the pan.
When to add cheese for maximum melt
Add the Parmesan after the cream and pasta water have started to bubble gently. This ensures the cheese melts smoothly without clumping. Use freshly grated cheese (not the pre-shredded kind) for best results—it melts more evenly and adds more flavor.
What to Serve with Quick Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta
This pasta is rich and comforting on its own, but the right accompaniments can create a complete, balanced meal.
Light sides that balance the richness
A crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess perfectly. Garlic sautéed green beans or roasted asparagus also pair well, adding texture and freshness without competing with the pasta’s flavor.
Wine pairings and drinks that shine
A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio is a natural match here. Both wines complement the creamy sauce without overwhelming the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon or an iced herbal tea keeps things light and refreshing.
Make-ahead tips and storing leftovers
This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers will keep well for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving at high heat, which can cause the cream to split.
Variations on Chicken Bacon Pasta Recipes
The beauty of this dish is its flexibility. With a few small changes, you can tailor it to suit different diets or flavor preferences.
Chicken bacon pasta no cream: dairy-free tips
For a no-cream version, swap the heavy cream for unsweetened almond or oat milk, and thicken with a little cornstarch slurry. Nutritional yeast or dairy-free Parmesan adds that cheesy edge. This lighter take still delivers flavor, without the dairy.
Chicken bacon pasta tomato: adding acidity
Add a handful of cherry tomatoes to the skillet with the onions, or stir in a spoonful of sun-dried tomato paste. The acidity balances the richness of the cream, creating a slightly tangy variation that’s just as satisfying. You can also try a spoon of tomato pesto—similar to what’s used in this creamy Cajun shrimp pasta for bold flavor.
Swapping proteins and going vegetarian
No chicken? No problem. Swap in mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or even white beans for a meatless version. Or go with leftover rotisserie chicken to save time. Craving something green? Stir in spinach or peas for a burst of color and added nutrients.
FAQs About Quick Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta
Can I make chicken bacon pasta without cream?
Yes! You can substitute the cream with plant-based alternatives like oat or almond milk, thickened slightly with a cornstarch slurry. While it won’t be as rich, the dish will still have great flavor—especially if you keep the garlic, onions, and Parmesan.
How can I add tomatoes to this pasta?
Add chopped cherry tomatoes or a tablespoon of tomato paste to the skillet before adding cream. They’ll melt into the sauce, bringing brightness and balancing the richness. For another tomato-forward option, try this 30-minute creamy pesto chicken pasta skillet.
What’s the best cheese besides Parmesan?
Pecorino Romano is a great substitute—it’s slightly saltier and bolder. Asiago or even a sharp aged cheddar can also work, but they’ll change the flavor profile a bit. Always use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest melt.
How do I keep the sauce from drying out when reheating?
Add a splash of cream or milk before reheating, and warm the pasta gently over low heat. Stir frequently to help the sauce re-emulsify. Avoid microwaving at high power, which can cause separation.
Final Thoughts on This Creamy Chicken Bacon Pasta
This quick creamy chicken bacon pasta is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—fast, comforting, and deeply satisfying. It proves you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make something special.
Why this will be your go-to pasta recipe
The ingredients are simple, the flavors are rich, and the cleanup is minimal. It checks every box for busy nights or impromptu dinner guests, with zero stress and all the comfort of a restaurant-quality meal.
The joy of fast comfort food done right
There’s nothing better than a dish that feels indulgent but fits into real life. From the sizzle of bacon to the silky finish of the sauce, every step is designed for speed without sacrificing depth.
A quick pasta that never disappoints
Once you make it, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Whether you follow it to the letter or adapt it with your own twist, it’s one of those meals that feels like a win every single time.
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