Get ready to twirl your fork into pure comfort-this Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes in Garlic Cream Sauce is absolutely irresistible! Picture tender chicken, smoky bacon crumbles, vibrant tomatoes, and wilted spinach tossed in velvety, garlicky cream sauce and all wrapped up with hearty pasta.

This dish hits all the right notes: creamy, savory, fresh, and loaded with bold flavors in every single bite. It's a one-skillet wonder that makes any weeknight feel special, but is impressive enough for guests or a date-night in.

Inspired by my favorite Italian bistro, this recipe is a family favorite in our house-and once you try it, I know it'll be yours too!

A steaming skillet filled with creamy pasta, topped with golden chicken, crispy bacon, fresh spinach, and pops of red tomato.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Rich, Creamy Satisfaction: Combines luscious sauce with crispy bacon and juicy chicken for ultimate comfort.
Quick and Easy: On your table in less than an hour using simple, familiar ingredients.
One-Pan Convenience: Less mess and fewer dishes thanks to its streamlined stovetop method.
Balanced & Colorful: Fresh veggies make it as nourishing and vibrant as it is delicious.

Key Ingredients for Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes in Garlic Cream Sauce

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Breast

Chicken breast keeps the pasta lean yet satisfying, adding a hearty protein punch. Slice into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and maximum flavor absorption. You can substitute boneless, skinless thighs for a juicier texture, or use leftover rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.

Bacon

Bacon infuses the entire dish with smoky, savory notes that perfectly complement the creamy sauce. Choose thick-cut bacon for extra chew or your favorite style for convenience. Pancetta or turkey bacon work as alternatives-just know flavor and fat content will vary slightly.

Fresh Spinach

Spinach brings a fresh, vibrant pop of color and extra nutrients to the dish. Baby spinach is ideal since it wilts quickly and has a tender texture, but mature spinach with stems removed also works. Swap in kale or arugula for a different leafy green element.

Cherry Tomatoes

Bursting cherry tomatoes give the pasta juicy sweetness and a beautiful presentation. Grape tomatoes are a great stand-in, or use coarsely chopped Roma tomatoes if that's what you have on hand. Sundried tomatoes add a more intense flavor if you want a bold twist.

Garlic and Heavy Cream

Garlic is key for depth, fragrance, and classic Italian flavor, while heavy cream transforms the sauce into something luscious and decadent. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or a mix of cream and milk, though the sauce will be less rich.

Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes in Garlic Cream Sauce cooking process

Instructions for Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes in Garlic Cream Sauce

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Crisp the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Carefully pour off most of the bacon fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the skillet.

Sauté the Chicken

Season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the chicken. Sear until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

Build the Garlic Cream Sauce

Lower the skillet heat to medium. Add olive oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant (not browned!). Add heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Add Cheese and Veggies

Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Add baby spinach and cherry tomatoes, cooking just until the spinach wilts (about 2 minutes). If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Combine Everything

Return cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce and heated through, about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Garnish and Serve

Serve immediately, topped with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy every creamy, savory bite!

Recipe Variations

Lighten It Up

Want a lighter version? Swap half of the heavy cream for whole milk, or use half-and-half instead. The sauce will still be creamy, just less rich (and a little lower in calories).

Gluten-Free Option

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta to easily make this celiac-friendly. Be sure to check your bacon and Parmesan labels as well for hidden gluten.

Vegetarian Swap

Skip the chicken and bacon and double up on the spinach and tomatoes for a satisfying, veggie-packed meal. Try adding sautéed mushrooms or artichoke hearts for extra savory flavor.

Spice It Up

Love a little heat? Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or stir in a spoonful of Calabrian chili paste for a spicy Italian kick.

More Veggies, Please

Throw in sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or peas with the spinach and tomatoes if you want to amp up the veggie content and color.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy chicken and bacon pasta is a feast all by itself, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp, green salad drizzled in a tangy vinaigrette. Serve with warm, crusty Italian bread or garlic knots to soak up every drop of sauce. For garnish, top with extra Parmesan shavings and a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for a burst of flavor and color.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until hot. You can also microwave individual portions in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between. While this dish is best fresh, you may freeze it for up to 2 months-thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, though the sauce may separate a bit (a little extra cream helps bring it back together).

Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes in Garlic Cream Sauce (FAQ)

Q: Can I use leftover, cooked chicken instead of raw chicken breast?

A: Yes! Simply stir in shredded or chopped cooked chicken during the final step to warm it through-the flavor will still be delicious.

Q: What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

A: Short, sturdy shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli are perfect for holding the rich cream sauce and bits of chicken and bacon.

Q: How can I make the sauce even thicker and creamier?

A: Add a bit more Parmesan cheese or simmer the sauce for a few extra minutes to let it reduce before adding the pasta.

Ready to make creamy pasta magic at home? This Chicken and Bacon Pasta with Spinach and Tomatoes in Garlic Cream Sauce is everything you want in a comforting dinner-easy, decadent, and full of crave-worthy flavors. Try it tonight, then leave a rating and let me know how you liked it in the comments!

Why You'll Love This Recipe