One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Bacon

This One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Bacon is the perfect weeknight dinner—rich, creamy, and loaded with comforting flavors. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese blends seamlessly with the pasta, while fresh spinach adds a touch of freshness. Best of all, everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Convenience – Minimal dishes mean less time spent cleaning up.
• Rich and Creamy – The cheesy sauce is irresistibly smooth and flavorful.
• Balanced Flavor – Savory bacon, juicy chicken, and fresh spinach create the perfect mix.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Kid-Friendly – A cheesy pasta dish the whole family will love.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups uncooked penne pasta
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon

• Heat a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
• Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes.
• Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.

2. Cook the Chicken

• Add olive oil to the same pot.
• Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
• Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

3. Cook the Pasta

• Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
• Add the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
• Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

4. Add Cheese and Spinach

• Reduce heat to low and stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted.
• Add the spinach and cooked bacon, stirring until the spinach wilts.
• Sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from heat and let it sit for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

Variations

• Swap the Protein – Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken.
• Try a Different Cheese – Cheddar, Gouda, or Monterey Jack work well.
• Add More Veggies – Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers make great additions.
• Make It Spicier – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Use Whole Wheat Pasta – A healthier alternative to regular pasta.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the creamy sauce.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, and reduce the cheese slightly for a lighter version.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken works well. Just add it in step 4 when mixing in the cheese.

What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?

Penne, rigatoni, or rotini work well since they hold onto the creamy sauce nicely.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and check that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a mix of Greek yogurt and milk for a lighter option.

How do I keep the cheese from clumping?

Remove the pot from heat before stirring in the cheese, and add it gradually while stirring continuously.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Use a larger pot and double all ingredients, adjusting cooking time slightly.

Will frozen spinach work?

Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it in step 4.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare it ahead and store it for up to 3 days. Reheat with a little extra broth or cream.

What side dishes pair well with this pasta?

Garlic bread, a simple side salad, or roasted vegetables complement this dish perfectly.

Conclusion

One-Pot Cheesy Chicken Pasta with Spinach and Bacon is an easy, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and savory bacon, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Plus, since it’s made in just one pot, cleanup is quick and effortless. Try this recipe tonight for a comforting, satisfying dinner!

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