Creamy Chicken Bacon Ziti
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken Bacon Ziti, featuring crispy bacon and tender chicken in a luscious cream sauce.
Servings: 4 servings
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Skillet
Ingredients
Pasta
- ½ pound ziti pasta
Cooking Oil
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
Meat
- 8 ounces bacon, chopped
- 6 ounces chicken breast, chopped into bite-size pieces
Spices
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- to taste salt and pepper
Sauce
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese (not pre-shredded)
Garnish
- fresh basil chiffonade for garnish
- shredded Parmesan cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Ziti - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ziti pasta and cook until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
- Step 2: Sauté the Bacon - In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Step 3: Cook the Chicken - In the same skillet, add olive oil and chicken. Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until no longer pink.
- Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce - Reduce heat, add heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Step 5: Combine Ingredients - Add cooked ziti, bacon, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss until coated, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Step 6: Serve and Garnish - Serve in bowls, garnished with basil and additional Parmesan cheese.
Notes
For a creamier sauce, add more heavy cream or a splash of milk. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor.