This One-Pot Chicken Bacon Tomato Alfredo is a creamy delight! You get juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and tasty tomatoes all in one pot—easy peasy!
If you love a hearty dish without the fuss of multiple pots, this recipe is for you. I can’t stop smiling when I smell that bacon sizzling! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are great for this dish as they cook quickly. You can use thighs instead for a richer flavor, or even tofu for a vegetarian option!
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, turkey bacon works well too, or for vegetarian options, consider using smoked paprika to mimic that flavor!
Pasta: I love using rotini because the sauce clings to it nicely. Penne is another good choice. If you’re gluten-free, try chickpea or rice pasta; they absorb flavors wonderfully.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess that can’t be beat! For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a plant-based cream if you’re avoiding dairy.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best taste. If you need a substitute, Pecorino Romano is a great alternative, and nutritional yeast is a fantastic choice for vegan dishes.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken perfectly can be tricky, but following a few simple steps can help! Start by seasoning your chicken well; this enhances flavor as it cooks.
- Heat your pot on medium before adding the chicken. This helps with browning.
- Cook it until it’s browned on the outside and reaches at least 165°F (75°C) inside. A meat thermometer is super helpful here.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot. Cook in batches if needed to ensure even cooking.
One-Pot Chicken Bacon Tomato Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 cups pasta (e.g., rotini or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a satisfying meal without too much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. This usually takes about 5-6 minutes. Once it’s crispy, remove it from the pot and set it aside, leaving the yummy bacon fat in the pot for extra flavor.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the pot with the bacon fat. Season it with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You want the chicken to be juicy and tender!
3. Add Garlic and Tomatoes:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s nice and fragrant. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes. Cook these for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften up and burst with flavor.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally so the pasta doesn’t stick!
5. Make It Creamy:
When the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix everything well until the sauce becomes creamy and thick—it should look delicious!
6. Combine and Serve:
Add the crispy bacon back into the pot and gently stir to combine all the flavors. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Lastly, remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, flavorful one-pot chicken bacon tomato Alfredo!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini or penne works great, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the pasta you choose. Always check the package instructions for the best results!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a cashew-based cream. Just be mindful that these swaps may alter the flavor slightly!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much after refrigeration.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes! Feel free to load up on veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can add them when cooking the chicken so they have time to soften, or stir them in with the tomatoes for a quick sauté. Just make sure to adjust cooking time slightly to ensure everything is cooked to your liking!
