If you’re craving a comforting and indulgent pasta dish, look no further than Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Bacon. This recipe combines tender chicken breast, smoky turkey bacon, and a luscious, cheesy Alfredo sauce that coats every strand of fettuccine pasta. It’s the perfect meal for a cozy night in or an impressive dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Bacon strikes a balance between rich, creamy flavors and hearty protein, making it both satisfying and delicious. The addition of turkey bacon adds a smoky depth that elevates the classic Alfredo sauce, while the garlic and onion powders infuse the sauce with subtle savory notes. Best of all, this meal comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner plans. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining guests, this dish promises plenty of flavor without any fuss.

Your Shopping Guide

8 oz fettuccine pasta: The traditional pasta choice for Alfredo, with wide ribbons that hold the sauce beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the chicken and adding a touch of richness.
1 lb chicken breast, sliced: Use fresh, boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor.
1 cup heavy cream: The base for the creamy Alfredo sauce. Heavy cream ensures a silky, rich texture.
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and gives that signature cheesy flavor.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor without overpowering the dish.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic and rounds out the flavor profile.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every component perfectly.
4 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled: Provides a smoky, savory crunch without overpowering the creamy sauce.
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note to finish the dish.

What’s in the Gear List

Large pot: For boiling the fettuccine pasta to al dente perfection.
Large skillet or frying pan: To cook the chicken and prepare the Alfredo sauce.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the sauce and mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Knife and cutting board: To slice the chicken breast and chop the parsley.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements of cream, cheese, and spices.
Colander: To drain the pasta once cooked.
Grater: For freshly grating the Parmesan cheese.

Cooking Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Bacon: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz of fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, reserve about ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

While the pasta cooks, place 4 slices of turkey bacon into a cold skillet and cook over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon, place on paper towels to drain excess fat, and crumble once cooled. Keep the skillet handy for cooking the chicken.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet used for the bacon and heat over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon onion powder. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and pour 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it in the creamy sauce. Next, add the drained fettuccine and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Finally, sprinkle the crumbled turkey bacon over the top and give it one last gentle mix.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the creamy chicken Alfredo with bacon to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, comforting taste.

Fit It to Your Goals

For a lighter option: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt, but be mindful the sauce may be less thick.
Make it vegetarian: Skip the chicken and turkey bacon; add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables instead.
Boost your greens: Stir in some sautéed spinach or kale to add color and nutrients, similar to the Creamy Roasted Garlic Spinach Ziti.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.

Insider Tips

Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated or powdered for a smoother, more flavorful sauce.
Reserve some pasta water before draining; the starchy water helps loosen the sauce without watering it down.
Don’t overcook the chicken. Cooking it just until white all the way through keeps it tender and juicy.
Cook the turkey bacon in the same pan as the chicken to infuse more smoky flavor into the sauce.
For the best texture, toss the pasta with the sauce while both are hot so the sauce clings perfectly.

How to Store & Reheat

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta and warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

Reader Q&A

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful. Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and a vegan Parmesan-style cheese. Keep in mind the flavor will be different but still delicious.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

While you can make the Alfredo sauce in advance and refrigerate it, it’s best to reheat it gently with a splash of cream or milk to maintain the creamy texture before combining with pasta and chicken.

What’s the best pasta to use if I don’t have fettuccine?

Tagliatelle, linguine, or even pappardelle work well as alternatives. If none of these are available, penne or rigatoni are good substitutes that hold sauce nicely, like in the Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne.

Cook This Next

Lemon Garlic Herb Chicken Spaghetti – A bright, flavorful pasta that’s a perfect contrast to creamy dishes.
Baked Three Cheese Chicken Penne – A cheesy baked pasta dish that’s equally comforting and easy to prepare.
Creamy Roasted Garlic Spinach Ziti – A vegetable-packed creamy pasta that pairs well with chicken-based dishes.

Bring It Home

Creamy Chicken Alfredo with Bacon is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors with simple ingredients. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality meal you can make at home with ease. With juicy chicken, smoky turkey bacon, and a velvety sauce enveloping tender fettuccine, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your table. Don’t forget to finish it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an inviting touch. So gather your ingredients, follow these straightforward steps, and treat yourself to a plate of creamy, cheesy goodness tonight!

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