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Chicken Carbonara Pasta Bake Deluxe

This Chicken Carbonara Pasta Bake Deluxe is rich, creamy, and easy to make! Tender chicken, smoky turkey bacon, and cheesy sauce baked to perfection.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Total Time50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing the chicken and aromatics
  • 1 pound chicken breast diced
  • 1 cup turkey bacon chopped
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream for creamy sauce base
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese shredded, for topping
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook diced chicken breast until no longer pink and starting to brown, about 6-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, cook chopped turkey bacon until crispy, about 4 minutes. Remove and set aside with chicken.
  • Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Lower heat and pour in 1 cup heavy cream. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, black pepper, salt, and dried Italian herbs. Stir continuously until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  • Return chicken and turkey bacon to skillet. Add drained penne pasta and gently toss to coat with creamy sauce.
  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour pasta mixture into greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  • Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
  • Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch recommended)
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Notes

  • Cook pasta just until al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
  • Substitute half-and-half or milk for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
  • Assemble ahead and refrigerate for easy make-ahead meals.
  • Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Reduce cheese slightly to lower saturated fat content.