Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta Recipe

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is the type of dish you whip up once and immediately add to your permanent recipe rotation. Its dreamy sauce, tender chicken, and pops of sweet corn all tangle beautifully with bow tie pasta, while crispy bacon and a dusting of Parmesan take it over the top. Whether you’re craving serious comfort food or looking to impress friends at a casual dinner, this recipe checks every box for pleasure and ease.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple pantry staples and fresh flavors come together to make this Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta truly memorable. Each ingredient pulls its weight for a perfectly balanced meal that looks and tastes like a weeknight triumph.

• Bow tie pasta (farfalle): The fun shape isn’t just for looks—it holds onto that lush sauce in every bite.
• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and chopped for bite-sized tenderness.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a deep, smoky flavor that gives the chicken its irresistible, golden color.
• Italian seasoning: Delivers a subtle aromatic kick with herbs like oregano and basil.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning every layer of the pasta and the chicken.
• Black pepper: Lends gentle heat, lifting the flavors without overpowering them.
• Olive oil or vegetable oil: Helps the chicken caramelize and keeps everything silky and moist.
• Chili powder: For a mild, smoky heat that complements the sweet corn and creamy sauce.
• Frozen corn kernels: Easy and sweet—just toss them straight in from the freezer.
• Parmesan cheese: Brings salty depth and richness to the sauce; grate it fresh if you can.
• Heavy cream: The secret to that lush, velvety sauce that makes this dish so comforting.
• Bacon strips: Crispy, savory, and absolutely irresistible when sprinkled on top.
• Fresh parsley (optional): Adds color and a fresh, herbal finish to your bowl.

How to Make Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil and cook your bow tie pasta according to package instructions. You want the noodles tender yet still holding their shape, so keep an eye on them. Drain and set aside, but don’t worry if a little pasta water clings—you’ll want that extra silkiness in your final sauce.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, toss your chicken chunks with the smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chili powder. Each piece should be well coated; this ensures every bite is packed with vibrant, aromatic flavor when it hits the skillet.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the seasoned chicken pieces and cook until they’re golden and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Give them a nice sear for maximum flavor, then transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm while you make the sauce.

Step 4: Sauté the Corn

Don’t wash the skillet! Toss in the frozen corn kernels and sauté for 2 or 3 minutes. The corn will develop a touch of char and sweetness, adding a lovely color contrast in your Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, scraping up any golden bits stuck to the bottom. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, and let the sauce simmer and thicken for 2 to 3 minutes until it’s luscious and glossy.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add your drained pasta and chopped bacon. Toss everything so the sauce fully coats every noodle and chunk of chicken—it should look impossibly creamy and inviting.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Give the pasta a taste and adjust with a pinch more salt or pepper if needed. This is your last chance to make the flavors pop, so trust your instincts!

Step 8: Serve

Dish up your Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta while it’s warm, topping with fresh parsley for an extra burst of color and herbal zing.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brightens up each plate, while an extra grate of Parmesan never hurts. For a hint of smokiness, add a bit more chopped bacon or a dusting of smoked paprika right before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of good olive oil or even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice will make the flavors sing.

Side Dishes

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta plays well with a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, offering a refreshing counterpoint to the richness. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette is always a welcome addition for mopping up sauce. For a lighter touch, try steamed green beans or roasted broccoli on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

You can serve Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta family-style in a big, rustic bowl—perfect for passing around the table. For a dinner party, portion it into shallow plates and crown each with extra bacon and a small pile of arugula. Or, for a lunch gathering, tuck the pasta into individual ramekins and finish with a Parmesan crust under the broiler for a bubbly, golden top.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, and the flavors continue to meld, making it even more delicious on day two.

Freezing

You can freeze portions of this pasta, though the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly after thawing. For best results, let the cooked pasta cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers. It keeps well for about one month—just plan to reheat gently for the creamiest results.

Reheating

To reheat, transfer the pasta to a skillet or saucepan with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Warm over low heat, stirring gently until everything becomes creamy once again. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.

FAQs

What if I only have fresh corn instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Slice the kernels from fresh ears and sauté as directed. Fresh corn might add a little extra sweetness and crunch, making your Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta even more special.

Can I use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken?

Yes! Just toss bite-sized pieces with the seasonings and add them to the skillet when you return the chicken in step 6. It’s a great shortcut for busy nights.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter version, use half-and-half or whole milk. You might want to let the sauce reduce a bit longer to reach the same level of creaminess, but the end result will still be delicious.

Can I make Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta gluten-free?

Definitely—just swap the bow tie pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. Keep an eye on texture, as some gluten-free pastas cook a little faster than traditional ones.

Does this dish work well as leftovers for lunch?

It’s fantastic for lunch the next day! The flavors continue to develop, and it reheats beautifully. Consider packing it with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a wedge of lemon for a fresh twist.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a weeknight dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl, Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta should be at the top of your list. Go ahead and give it a try—one delicious bite and you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.

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