As the aroma of sizzling bacon filled my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of nostalgia for those comforting family dinners from my childhood. Today’s recipe, Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta with Bacon, brings together tender chicken and crispy bacon in a dreamy, creamy sauce that’ll quickly become your go-to for busy weeknights. Not only is this dish a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds, but it’s also a one-skillet wonder—meaning less cleanup and more time enjoying a delicious meal together. You might just find this recipe replacing takeout on your evenings more often than you expected! Are you ready to dive into the delightful depths of flavor this home-cooked delight has to offer?
Why is this dish a weeknight favorite?
Simplicity makes it a breeze to prepare, with just one skillet needed for a complete meal. Hearty flavors shine through with the rich Honey Dijon sauce, melting into the tender chicken and crispy bacon. Nostalgic comfort evokes fond memories of family gatherings, delighting both young and old. Versatile enough to swap in your favorite pasta or seasonal veggies, it invites creativity. And best of all, it saves time on cleanup, allowing you to savor every moment with loved ones at the table. Enjoy it alongside a refreshing Lemon Garlic Chicken or alongside a simple side salad for a complete dining experience!
Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta Ingredients
• Get ready to whip up this comforting dish!
For the Pasta
- Pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli) – Serves as the hearty base; opt for whole grain for a healthier choice.
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breast – The main protein source; try turkey for a leaner alternative.
- Bacon – Adds a delightful crunch; can be substituted with turkey bacon if desired.
For the Sauce
- Heavy Cream – Ensures a luscious and rich sauce; half-and-half can lighten things up.
- Honey Dijon Mustard – Infuses sweet and tangy notes; regular Dijon with a pinch of sugar works too.
- Chicken Broth – Deepens the flavor of the sauce; vegetable broth suits a vegetarian twist.
- Garlic – Boosts overall flavor; fresh cloves are best, though minced will do in a pinch.
For Color and Nutrition
- Spinach – Adds color and nutrients; feel free to use kale or omit it for simplicity.
This Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta with Bacon is not only delicious but easy to customize to your family’s taste!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta with Bacon
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, approximately 5–7 minutes. Once the bacon is golden brown, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate, allowing the excess grease to drain. Keep the bacon fat in the skillet; it will enhance the flavor of your Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add bite-sized pieces of chicken breast and season with salt and pepper. Sauté the chicken over medium heat for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are cooked through and nicely browned with no pink remaining. This creates a flavorful foundation for your pasta dish.
Step 3: Add Garlic
With the chicken nearly done, add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it could turn bitter. This step infuses the chicken with a delicious, savory aroma, elevating your Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta even further.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the honey Dijon mustard and heavy cream. Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat for 4–5 minutes. The sauce will thicken slightly and become creamy, creating a luscious coating for your pasta.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Spinach
Add your cooked pasta of choice and fresh spinach to the skillet, gently stirring until the spinach wilts, which should take about 2 minutes. Make sure each piece of pasta is well-coated in that dreamy sauce. This is the moment your Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta starts to come together in all its glory.
Step 6: Add Bacon and Serve
Finally, stir in the crispy bacon pieces you set aside earlier, mixing everything evenly for a final touch of flavor. Allow the dish to heat through for an additional minute, then remove from heat. Serve your Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, for a comforting family meal.
Expert Tips for Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta
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Uniform Chicken Pieces: Ensure your chicken is cut into even pieces to promote even cooking, preventing some pieces from being undercooked.
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Proper Pasta Cooking: Avoid overcooking the pasta; aim for al dente since it will absorb some sauce flavors during the final step.
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Adjust the Sauce: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you love heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to your Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta for extra warmth.
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Bacon Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, let the bacon grease infuse the chicken as it cooks—this is key to that irresistible taste!
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Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and spinach when possible; they significantly elevate the flavor and nutritional profile of the dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta with Bacon are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the chicken and bacon components up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the bacon until crispy, then sauté the chicken until cooked through, letting them cool before storing in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The sauce can also be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days, and when you’re ready to serve, just reheat the chicken and bacon in a skillet, add the sauce and cooked pasta, and toss everything together for that rich, comforting flavor. This method ensures your dish remains just as delicious while minimizing weekday stress!
Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors!
- Vegetable Boost: Add seasonal veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition. They’ll bring a crunchy texture and fresh taste to your pasta.
- Lean Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp or chickpeas for a new protein twist, making the dish suitable for seafood lovers or vegetarians alike.
- Plant-Based Cream: Swap heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative for a dairy-free version that retains that creamy texture.
- Mustard Variations: Try different mustards, such as spicy brown or whole grain, to give your sauce a unique kick! Each will create a distinctive flavor profile.
- Whole Grain Goodness: Use whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option that still delivers on taste. It’s a simple switch that adds more fiber to your meal.
- Extra Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat that perfectly complements the sweetness of the honey Dijon sauce.
- Pasta Shapes: Experiment with different pasta shapes, like fusilli or farfalle, to change the texture and presentation of your dish while captivating the little ones!
- Creamy Alternatives: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce without sacrificing the rich flavor. This small tweak makes for a more waistline-friendly dish.
Whichever variations you choose, your Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta with Bacon is sure to be a hit at the dinner table! For more delicious chicken options, you might also enjoy Crockpot Coconut Chicken or Lemon Garlic Chicken Zoodles.
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta
Fridge: Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain the creamy texture, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the dish, portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen, adding a bit of water or broth to help loosen the sauce.
Reheating: For best results, reheat pasta on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring gently. You may need to add a splash of heavy cream for the perfect creamy consistency.
Serving Freshness: If reheating pasta, consume it within a day for the best flavor and texture.
What to Serve with Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta with Bacon
A comforting meal deserves delightful accompaniments to complete your dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce, its crispy texture and buttery flavor will elevate your meal. The golden, toasted edges provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
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Steamed Broccoli: Adds a crisp freshness to your plate, balancing the richness of the dish. Its bright green color not only beautifies the table but also enhances the nutritional value of your meal.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons harmonize perfectly with the pasta’s flavors. This classic side brings a zesty element, making each bite refreshing and satisfying.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their earthy flavor complements the rich, honeyed notes of the dish while adding a delightful crunch. These roasted gems bring out the best in your Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta, pleasing both taste buds and eyes.
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Lemon Herb Quinoa: A light and nutritious option, it adds a lovely grainy texture alongside your pasta without overshadowing it. The subtle lemon flavors pair beautifully with the honey mustard, creating a fulfilling meal.
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Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A glass of crisp white wine elevates your dining experience, with fruity notes that cut through the dish’s creaminess. The wine’s acidity balances the heavier flavors, enhancing every bite of your comforting meal.
Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta with Bacon Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right chicken breast?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breast, look for pieces that are plump, with a pinkish color and minimal visible fat. Avoid any that have dark spots or an off smell. Fresh chicken should feel slightly moist but never slimy.
How should I store leftover Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta?
To store your delicious leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container, and pop it into the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to revive that creamy texture.
Can I freeze this chicken pasta dish?
Yes, you can! To freeze Creamy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta, portion it into airtight freezer-safe containers and store it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat directly from frozen on the stove, adding a splash of broth to help loosen the sauce as it heats.
What do I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce is too thick, don’t worry! Just add a little bit of chicken broth or water gradually while stirring, until you reach your desired consistency. The key is to incorporate gradually; you can always add more but it’s harder to fix if it becomes too thin.
Are there any allergens I should be aware of?
Indeed! This recipe contains common allergens such as chicken, dairy from the heavy cream, and gluten if you’re using regular pasta. If you’re serving someone with allergies, consider using gluten-free pasta and substituting the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative, like coconut milk.
Can I use other types of pasta or proteins?
Very much! Feel free to switch out the pasta type—whole grain or gluten-free work wonderfully. You can also replace chicken with shrimp or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility, so get creative!
Creamy Paprika Chicken with Tender Rice for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, approximately 5–7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, keeping the bacon fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add bite-sized pieces of chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 6–8 minutes until cooked through and browned.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, honey Dijon mustard, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer for 4–5 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Add cooked pasta and fresh spinach, stirring until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
- Stir in the crispy bacon pieces, mix evenly, and heat through for another minute. Serve warm.
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