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This Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon is the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and smoky flavors. Tender chicken, sweet corn, and crispy bacon are combined with farfalle pasta and a rich, creamy sauce to create a meal that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It’s a comforting dish that will quickly become a family favorite, and the crispy bacon adds the perfect crunch to balance the creamy texture.

This recipe is packed with flavor thanks to the smoked paprika, chili powder, and Parmesan cheese. With the addition of fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, the dish comes together beautifully, making it perfect for any occasion.

What You Need to Make Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon:

Ingredients:

• Pasta and Cheese:
  • 10 oz farfalle (bow tie) pasta
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese (shredded)
• Chicken:
  • 1 ½ lb chicken thighs or breasts, skinless and boneless
  • 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Corn:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups corn kernels (cooked from about 4 ears of corn on the cob)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Other Ingredients:
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 strips bacon (cooked)
  • Fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, or marjoram) for garnish

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the farfalle pasta according to the package instructions, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside. Proceed with the rest of the recipe while the pasta cooks.
2. Shred the Cheese:
   Shred ½ cup of Parmesan cheese. If using pre-shredded cheese, remove it from the fridge and let it warm up slightly near the stove, so it melts easily when added to the sauce.
3. Cook the Chicken:
   Slice the chicken thighs (or breasts) into thinner strips. Season generously with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Make the Creamy Corn Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the cooked corn kernels. Season with salt and pepper, and stir in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1 teaspoon of chili powder. Cook on low heat for about 3 minutes to let the flavors combine.
5. Add Cream and Cheese to the Sauce:
   Remove half of the corn mixture from the skillet and set aside. Add 1 cup of heavy cream to the skillet with the remaining corn. Bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer.
   Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese and continue stirring on low heat until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
6. Assemble the Dish:
   Add the cooked and drained pasta to the skillet and stir to coat it with the creamy sauce.
   Add the cooked chicken and toss to combine. Top with chopped, cooked bacon and the reserved corn.
   Garnish with fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or marjoram for an added burst of flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   Serve the dish hot and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness!

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Common Questions About This Recipe:

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While farfalle (bow tie) pasta works great, you can substitute with any pasta you prefer, like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.

Can I make this dish with chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes! Chicken breast works just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Simply prepare the pasta and sauce, store it in an airtight container, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I make it spicier?
For a spicier version, add some finely diced jalapeños or increase the amount of chili powder. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top for an extra kick.

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Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon:

• Use fresh corn for the best flavor. If you can’t get fresh, frozen corn will work too.
• Don’t overcook the chicken. Searing the chicken on medium heat will keep it tender and juicy.
• Top with more cheese! If you’re a cheese lover, sprinkle some extra Parmesan or even mozzarella on top before serving.

This Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta with Bacon is the perfect comfort food, full of rich flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or making it for meal prep, it’s a dish everyone will love!

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