This Chicken Penne with Bacon and Spinach in Creamy Tomato Sauce is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh spinach, all tossed with penne pasta in a rich and creamy tomato sauce. The flavors meld together beautifully, making it a perfect choice for a comforting weeknight dinner. The smoky bacon enhances the creaminess of the sauce, while the spinach adds a fresh touch, balancing the richness. This recipe is sure to please your family and can easily become a regular in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients Overview

To create this flavorful Chicken Penne with Bacon and Spinach in Creamy Tomato Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Chicken Breast: Provides the primary protein, offering a tender, juicy base for the dish. You can substitute with boneless chicken thighs for a richer flavor or use turkey as a leaner option.
Penne Pasta: The pasta holds the sauce well, but you can use any sturdy pasta shape. Gluten-free pasta is a great substitute for those with dietary restrictions.
Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce. Turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon alternative can be used if you prefer.

Spinach: Brings freshness and color to the dish. You can substitute with kale or arugula if spinach is unavailable.
Creamy Tomato Sauce: Made from a combination of heavy cream and tomato sauce, this creates a rich, smooth base that ties all the flavors together. You can use light cream for a lower-fat option or a dairy-free cream for a vegan version.
Garlic, Onion, and Italian Seasoning: These aromatics and spices add depth and complexity to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Chicken: Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. Slice them into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. Pat the chicken dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a good sear.
Bacon: Cut the bacon into small strips or lardons. This size is ideal for rendering fat and achieving crispy bits that will be mixed into the pasta later.
Spinach: Rinse the spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. If using baby spinach, there’s no need to chop it, but if using mature spinach, roughly chop the leaves.

Tip: Prepping all ingredients beforehand ensures smooth and efficient cooking.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, and set aside.

Tip: Adding salt to the boiling water enhances the flavor of the pasta. Reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce later if needed.

3. Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet or sauté pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once crispy, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan; discard the rest.

Tip: For extra crispy bacon, cook it slowly over medium heat, allowing the fat to render out without burning the meat.

4. Sear the Chicken

In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the chicken pieces in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure the chicken sears properly rather than steams. Cook in batches if necessary.

5. Sauté the Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add diced onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Tip: Stir the onions regularly to prevent them from sticking to the pan and to ensure even cooking.

6. Make the Creamy Tomato Sauce

Add a can of crushed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onions and garlic. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly.
Stir in heavy cream, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon without being too runny.

7. Combine and Finish the Dish

Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat the meat evenly with the sauce. Add the spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce and all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Tip: Taste the dish at this point and adjust seasoning if needed. You can also add a splash of pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

8. Plate and Serve

Transfer the chicken penne to a serving dish or individual plates. For an extra touch, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh basil, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.

Tip: Serve immediately to enjoy the dish at its best. If the pasta sits too long, the sauce may thicken further, so adding a bit of pasta water before serving can help maintain the ideal consistency.

9. Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the creamy texture.

Tip: When reheating, stir frequently to prevent the sauce from separating and to ensure even heating.

Pro Tips and Variations

Enhancing the Recipe:

Extra Vegetables: Boost the nutritional value by adding more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. Sauté these with the onions to incorporate them seamlessly into the dish.
Different Cheeses: For a richer flavor, consider adding shredded mozzarella, provolone, or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top. These cheeses melt beautifully and add a creamy texture.

Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or thyme can elevate the dish’s freshness. Stir them in at the end of cooking for the best flavor.

Dietary Adjustments:

Low-Carb Version: Substitute the penne pasta with spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative. This maintains the dish’s flavors while reducing the carbohydrate content.
Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cream substitute such as coconut cream or almond milk for the sauce. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap the regular penne pasta with a gluten-free variety, ensuring the dish remains satisfying for those with gluten sensitivities.

Protein Variations:

Alternative Proteins: Swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu to offer different protein options. Shrimp cooks quickly and pairs well with the creamy tomato sauce, while tofu is a great choice for vegetarians.
Meat-Free Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and replace the chicken with more vegetables or a plant-based meat substitute like tempeh or seitan.

Serving Suggestions

For a casual family dinner, serve the Chicken Penne with Bacon and Spinach in Creamy Tomato Sauce straight from the skillet, allowing everyone to help themselves. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and flavor. Pair the dish with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.

For a more formal occasion, plate the pasta individually, twirling the penne into neat mounds. Add a drizzle of extra sauce on top and finish with a delicate garnish of microgreens or a basil leaf. Serve alongside a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti to complement the rich, creamy sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a Caprese salad would elevate the meal to a dinner party standard.

Perfect Pairings

To complement the rich and creamy flavors of this Chicken Penne with Bacon and Spinach, consider serving a crisp Caesar salad or a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.

For wine, a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully, cutting through the creaminess of the sauce. If you prefer red, a light-bodied Chianti or Pinot Noir works well, adding depth without overpowering the dish.

To turn this meal into a complete dining experience, finish with a simple dessert like panna cotta or tiramisu, offering a sweet contrast to the savory main course. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon or iced tea infused with herbs like mint makes a refreshing accompaniment.

Nutritional Information

This Chicken Penne with Bacon and Spinach in Creamy Tomato Sauce provides a balanced nutritional profile, with an estimated 600-700 calories per serving. It delivers a substantial amount of protein from the chicken and bacon, approximately 30-35 grams per serving. The dish is moderate in fat, largely from the cream and bacon, contributing around 30 grams, and contains about 50-60 grams of carbohydrates from the pasta.

The main ingredients offer health benefits: chicken provides lean protein, spinach adds vitamins A and C along with iron, and tomatoes offer antioxidants like lycopene.

FAQs

1. Can this dish be made ahead of time? Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Combine them just before serving to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much sauce. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.

2. How can leftovers be stored and reheated? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Stir frequently to avoid separating the sauce.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! This dish works well with various pasta shapes. Penne is preferred for its ability to hold the sauce, but you can use fusilli, rigatoni, or even fettuccine. For a healthier option, try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.

4. What can I substitute for spinach? If you don’t have spinach, you can substitute with kale, arugula, or Swiss chard. These leafy greens will provide a similar texture and nutritional benefits. If you prefer a milder flavor, consider using baby spinach or a mix of baby greens.

5. How do I prevent the sauce from separating? To prevent the sauce from separating, ensure that the cream is added slowly and at a low temperature. Avoid boiling the sauce after adding cream, as high heat can cause it to split. If the sauce starts to separate, whisk in a splash of pasta water or additional cream to bring it back together.

Conclusion

This Chicken Penne with Bacon and Spinach in Creamy Tomato Sauce is a versatile and comforting dish that brings together savory, creamy, and fresh flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or a more formal occasion, this recipe adapts beautifully to various settings and preferences. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and vibrant spinach, all enveloped in a rich tomato cream sauce, makes it a crowd-pleaser.

I encourage you to try this recipe and experiment with the suggested variations to make it your own. Don’t forget to share your results and any creative twists you add. Cooking is an adventure, and this dish offers the perfect opportunity to explore and enjoy a delightful meal with loved ones.

Chicken Penne with Bacon and Spinach

Author: Christine

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Description

This Chicken Penne with Bacon and Spinach in Creamy Tomato Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh spinach, all tossed in a rich, creamy tomato sauce that clings beautifully to penne pasta. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Instructions

BACON: Add bacon strips to the skillet and cook until crispy. Transfer cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined platter that will absorb extra grease. Chop into 1 inch pieces
Drain the bacon fat from the skillet and wipe the skillet with a paper towel.

CHICKEN: Paper towel dry the chicken and season with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Then set aside.

Heat olive oil in the same skillet. Add chicken breasts and cook on each side on medium high heat for about 4 minutes per side (for a total of 8 minutes) until nicely browned. If chicken is still pink in the center, reduce heat to medium and cook covered for several minutes until no longer pink in the center. Remove chicken from pan and slice it.

Add butter to the hot pan and once it melts, add chopped garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add tomatoes and cook for 3 minutes on medium high until tomatoes release their juices. Add fresh spinach and cook until it wilts.
Reduce the heat and season with paprika, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes and salt. Mix.

Next add heavy cream – you are still cooking on low heat. Once heavy cream is slightly simmering, slowly add Parmesan cheese. Once you add the cheese, stir on low simmer until smooth.
PASTA: In the meantime bring a large pot of water to boil, add pasta and cook it according to instructions. Drain the pasta, but do not rinse.
Add sliced chicken, bacon and pasta. Next add chopped parsley. Stir until fully coated in sauce. Season with more salt if necessary.

TO SERVE: Serve with additional shredded Parmesan and red pepper flakes, if desired.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative or use dairy-free cream for a vegan option. Adjust the amount of bacon and spinach to your preference, and feel free to experiment with different types of cheese or pasta. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be made ahead and reheated with a splash of cream to restore its creamy texture.