Skip to content 
Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you’re craving something comforting yet indulgent that comes together without a ton of fuss. That’s exactly what my Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta delivers—a creamy, savory dish that hugs your taste buds with every forkful. I’ve made this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta countless times for family dinners, and it never fails to get rave reviews. The magic lies in the rich cream cheese sauce mingling with crispy bacon and tender chicken, all tossed with perfectly al dente pasta. If you’re tired of the same old spaghetti nights, this recipe will shake things up in the best way.
What I love most about preparing Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta is how it balances bold flavors without overpowering the ingredients. In my experience, the bacon adds that irresistible smokiness, while the cream cheese creates a velvety base that’s far from ordinary. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat but is simple enough for weeknights. Trust me, once you try making this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta, it’ll become a staple in your rotation. I’m excited to share the steps so you can enjoy it too—let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways:
- Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta is a one-pan wonder that’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
- This recipe uses pantry staples and fresh proteins for maximum flavor with minimal prep time.
- The creamy sauce and smoky bacon create an unbeatable taste that’s rich yet not too heavy.
- For the best results, cook the bacon until extra crispy to enhance the texture of your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently to keep the pasta creamy.
Why You’ll Adore This Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Quick and Effortless Prep: You’ll be amazed at how fast this comes together—less than 30 minutes from start to finish. In my kitchen, it’s a go-to when time is short but I still want something hearty. The simplicity makes it ideal for beginners or anyone juggling a busy schedule.
Irresistible Creamy Texture: Nothing beats the smooth, luscious sauce that coats every strand of pasta. I’ve found that the cream cheese melts beautifully, creating a comforting base that’s pure bliss. It’s that creamy goodness that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.
Flavor Explosion from Bacon and Chicken: The smoky bacon pairs perfectly with juicy chicken in this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta, delivering savory depth in every bite. What I find interesting is how these simple elements elevate the dish to restaurant quality. You’ll love the balance of textures and tastes.
Family-Friendly Comfort Food: This dish brings everyone to the table with its familiar yet exciting flavors. Let’s be honest, who can resist bacon? It’s versatile enough for picky eaters and has become a favorite in my home for cozy nights in.
Essential Ingredients for Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Cream Cheese: This is the star of the show, providing a tangy, creamy foundation that ties everything together in your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta. I always opt for full-fat for the richest texture, but light versions work if you’re watching calories. It melts smoothly into the sauce, adding body without needing heavy cream. In my experience, softening it first ensures no lumps.
Bacon: Crispy, smoky bacon brings that addictive crunch and depth of flavor to the dish. Thick-cut strips hold up best during cooking and infusing the pasta with savory notes. I’ve learned that reserving some bacon fat amps up the taste. It’s what makes this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta so indulgent.
Chicken Breast: Tender, bite-sized pieces of chicken add lean protein and a subtle sweetness that contrasts the richness. Seasoned simply with salt and pepper, it absorbs the sauce beautifully in the Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta. I prefer boneless for quick cooking, but thighs work for extra juiciness. This keeps the meal balanced and satisfying.
How to Make Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Prep and Cook the Bacon
Start by chopping your bacon into small pieces and tossing it into a large skillet over medium heat. Let it sizzle until golden and crispy, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait! Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon but leave a tablespoon of that flavorful fat behind—it’s key for the next step in building your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta.
Cook the Chicken and Pasta
While the bacon crisps, dice your chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through, turning as needed. Meanwhile, boil your pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente—don’t overcook it! Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water to help thin the sauce later. The sizzling sounds and tender chicken will have you eager for the creamy payoff.
Build the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese, letting it melt into the pan juices along with a splash of milk or pasta water for smoothness. Add minced garlic and a handful of grated Parmesan for extra zest, whisking until the sauce is velvety—this takes just 2-3 minutes. Toss in the cooked pasta and chicken, mixing everything gently to coat evenly in this luscious Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta. Finally, stir in most of the bacon, saving some for topping. Taste and adjust seasoning; the result is pure comfort on a plate.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta Instructions
- Cook the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving 1 tbsp bacon fat in the pan.
- Add diced chicken to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt softened cream cheese with minced garlic over low heat. Gradually stir in milk until smooth, then add Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente; drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- Return chicken and half the bacon to the sauce. Add pasta and toss to coat, using reserved water if needed to loosen. Garnish with remaining bacon and parsley. Serve hot.
Pro Tips for the Best Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Don’t Skip the Bacon Fat: Use it to sauté the chicken for deeper flavor—it’s what sets your homemade Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta apart.
Soften Cream Cheese First: Let it sit at room temperature to avoid lumps in the sauce; this ensures a silky texture every time.
Add Veggies for Balance: Stir in spinach or peas at the end for color and nutrition without overpowering the dish.
You Must Know
- This recipe serves 4-6 people and totals around 550 calories per serving, making it a hearty yet manageable meal.
- Gluten-free pasta works seamlessly as a substitute for a dietary-friendly version.
- The cream cheese sauce thickens as it cools, so add pasta water as needed during reheating.
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts better than pre-shredded for optimal creaminess.
How to Store Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Let your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta cool slightly before transferring leftovers to an airtight container; it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months, though the texture might soften a bit upon thawing. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk, stirring until creamy again—microwaving works too but watch for hot spots. This way, you can enjoy the flavors fresh-tasting every time.
Customizing Your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
If you’re feeling adventurous, swap the chicken for shrimp or turkey for a twist on this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta, or add jalapeños for heat. Vegetarians can omit the meat and load up on mushrooms and broccoli for bulk. In my experience, using half-and-half instead of milk makes the sauce even richer. For a lighter take, check out our healthy garlic parmesan chicken pasta for inspiration—it’s a great variation.
What to Serve with Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
A simple green salad with balsamic vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly, adding freshness to your meal. Crusty garlic bread or dinner rolls are ideal for sopping up any extra sauce—trust me, you’ll want every drop. For a lighter side, try roasted broccoli or asparagus. Pair it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to enhance the creamy notes, or iced tea for a casual vibe.
Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
A creamy one-pot pasta dish with bacon, chicken cubes, and a rich cream cheese sauce, perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Timing
Recipe Details
Ingredients
- 01 1 16-ounce package spaghetti
- 02 5 slices thick cut bacon
- 03 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 04 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 05 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 06 1 cup milk
- 07 1 8-ounce package cream cheese (cut into cubes)
- 08 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 09 salt
- 10 pepper
Instructions
Cook the pasta to al dente, according to the package instructions, and set aside.
In a large skillet, over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Drain on paper towels, keeping the bacon drippings in the pan. Crumble and set aside.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper and sear in the bacon grease over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 2 to 4 minutes on each side or until brown. Work in batches if necessary to prevent crowding the pan. Remove chicken from pan using tongs or a slotted spoon to allow bacon grease to remain in the pan. Place chicken on a plate. Set aside.
Lower the heat to low and add the minced garlic. Cook in the bacon grease until fragrant - just about 1 minute - being cautious not to burn the garlic. Add the chicken broth and milk. Stir to combine. Add the cream cheese and cover the pan. Cook for a few minutes or until cream cheese is nearly melted. Use a whisk to combine the sauce. Finally, add parmesan cheese to the pan and whisk together. Simmer, uncovered, over low heat until sauce thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste. Return chicken and crumbled bacon to the pan along with the pasta and toss together. Serve immediately.
FILED UNDER:
NUTRITION FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrition information is calculated using an ingredient database and should be considered an estimate. In cases where multiple ingredient alternatives are given, the first listed is calculated for nutrition. Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included.
Must-Know Tips
Professional Secrets
Frequently Asked Questions About Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta
Can I make Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can prepare the components separately and assemble just before serving to keep the pasta from getting soggy. Store the sauce and cooked elements in the fridge overnight, then reheat together. It’s a lifesaver for potlucks or meal prep.
How long does Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta last in the fridge?
Leftovers stay fresh for 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Beyond that, freeze for up to 2 months to extend enjoyment. Always reheat thoroughly to maintain safety and taste.
Is Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta gluten-free?
It can be— just use gluten-free pasta and ensure your cream cheese and other ingredients are certified GF. The rest of the recipe adapts easily without sacrificing flavor.
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this recipe?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor to your Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta. Skip the cooking step and stir it in during the sauce phase for a quick assembly.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
Substitute with equal parts ricotta or a mix of sour cream and butter, though the texture will vary slightly. It still results in a creamy dish worth trying.
How spicy can I make Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta?
Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to the sauce for heat—start with 1/2 tsp and adjust. This Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta handles spice well without overwhelming the bacon’s smokiness.
Can kids enjoy this dish?
Definitely; chop pieces small and tone down any extras for milder palates. It’s a hit with my family for its comforting, familiar tastes.
What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?
Penne or farfalle works best as they hold the creamy sauce beautifully. Avoid long strands like spaghetti, which can slip off the fork. For more pasta ideas, see our chicken Caesar pasta salad.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about how this Cream Cheese Bacon Chicken Pasta brings warmth and satisfaction to any table—it’s the kind of recipe that creates lasting memories over shared meals. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a quiet night in, I promise it’ll exceed expectations. Give it a whirl tonight and let me know how your version turns out; you might even link it back to favorites like our chicken bacon ranch casserole for more inspiration. Happy cooking!