Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon

Name: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 oz farfalle pasta; 1.5 lb chicken thighs (or breasts); 2 cups corn kernels; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 strips turkey bacon; Fresh herbs (for garnish)

Published: July 18, 2025

by Victoria

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute fresh corn with canned or frozen options, allowing you to enjoy this recipe year-round.
Kid-Friendly Flavor: The creamy sauce and crispy turkey bacon make this pasta a hit with kids and adults alike.
One-Pot Wonder: With everything cooked together, cleanup is a breeze!
Healthier Alternative: Using turkey bacon gives this recipe a flavorful twist while keeping it lighter than traditional recipes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather your tools beforehand. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in preparing your Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Colander
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks perfectly.
Skillet: Great for sautéing chicken and creating that delicious creamy sauce.
Colander: Essential for draining pasta without losing any pieces.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for mixing ingredients without damaging your cookware.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

10 oz farfalle (bow-tie pasta)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

For the Chicken

1.5 lb chicken thighs (or breasts, skinless, boneless)
1.5 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon salt
freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups corn kernels (cooked, 4 corn ears – corn on the cob)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 cup heavy cream

For Topping

8 strips turkey bacon (cooked)

For Garnish

Fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, or marjoram)

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain in a colander and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Season chicken thighs with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through.
Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil if needed.
Add corn kernels to the skillet along with additional smoked paprika and chili powder.
Pour in heavy cream and stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
Mix in sliced chicken and Parmesan cheese until well combined.
Cook for an additional minute until heated through.

Step 5: Serve

Plate your creamy chicken pasta topped with crispy turkey bacon strips.
Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Enjoy this delicious Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon as a comforting main dish any night of the week!

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon is a delightful dish that’s sure to impress at your dinner table. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your meal experience.

Add a Fresh Side Salad

A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta. It adds freshness and balances the richness of the dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle chopped fresh herbs like thyme or oregano on top for added flavor and a beautiful presentation. This will enhance both the aroma and taste of your pasta.

Serve with Garlic Bread

Crispy garlic bread is an excellent accompaniment. The crunchy texture complements the creamy pasta while providing an extra layer of flavor.

Include Grated Cheese

Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who love to add a cheesy touch. It enhances the creaminess and makes each bite even more delicious.

Pair with Wine

A chilled glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, goes beautifully with this dish. Its acidity cuts through the creaminess nicely.

How to Perfect Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon

To make your Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

Use fresh corn – When in season, fresh corn on the cob adds sweetness and crunch that canned or frozen corn cannot match.
Adjust seasoning – Taste your sauce as you cook. Adjust salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to suit your preference for spice.
Cook pasta al dente – Ensure your farfalle is cooked al dente for the perfect texture that holds up well in creamy sauces.
Let it rest – Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes after cooking can help all flavors meld together before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon

Pairing side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside this creamy chicken pasta.

Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
Roasted Asparagus – Toss asparagus in olive oil and roast until tender for a simple yet elegant side.
Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad brings crunch and zest that complements the creamy pasta beautifully.
Caprese Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and fresh basil drizzled with balsamic make for a refreshing appetizer.
Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach with garlic offers a nutritious green addition that’s easy to prepare.
Zucchini Noodles – For a healthier twist, serve zucchini noodles alongside or underneath the pasta for added fiber.
Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the pasta.
Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them an excellent pairing choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Overcooking the pasta: Make sure to follow the cooking time on the package. Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and won’t hold up well in your creamy sauce.
Ignoring seasoning: Don’t forget to season each layer of your dish. Add salt and pepper to the chicken while cooking for enhanced flavor throughout the pasta.
Skipping the resting time: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together. Rushing this step can lead to a less flavorful meal.
Using low-quality ingredients: Invest in good quality chicken and fresh corn when possible. Fresh ingredients will significantly impact the taste of your creamy chicken pasta.
Not adjusting the cream: If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half. This can help balance richness without sacrificing flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing the container.

Freezing Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon

Use a freezer-safe container for storage.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Label containers with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Transfer a serving to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed thoroughly.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Stir in pasta and cook until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon gluten-free?

You can substitute regular farfalle pasta with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes! Canned corn works perfectly if fresh corn is not available. Just drain it before adding it to your dish.

What can I use instead of turkey bacon?

Feel free to replace turkey bacon with regular turkey bacon or even pancetta if you want a different flavor profile in your creamy chicken pasta.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for more nutrition. Additionally, spices such as cayenne pepper can give it an extra kick!

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep your ingredients earlier in the day or even fully cook it ahead of time. Just store it properly as mentioned above.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Turkey Bacon is not only quick to prepare but also offers delightful flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike. This versatile recipe allows for easy customization based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Give it a try tonight!

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