Creamy Penne with Chicken, Spinach and Bacon

It's March 21 and we are having another snow storm! Snow all day and 8-12 inches expected. I don't think Spring is ever getting here! This is the kind of day to stay inside and eat some comfort food. I've been wanting to try this recipe and today seems the perfect day for something warm and creamy. Easy and quick for a weeknight dinner and impressive enough for dinner guests!

Creamy Penne with Chicken, Spinach and Bacon                  Printable Recipe

2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb. boneless chicken breast or breast tenders
6 strips bacon
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt/pepper to taste
1 -14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
1 lb baby spinach
5 cloves minced garlic
1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 1/2 cups half and half
1 cup shredded Parmesan plus additional for serving
1 lb Gluten Free Penne

Cook bacon until, crisp, put on paper towel to drain. Cut into bite size pieces.

Cook Penne until al dente.

Season the chicken with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. In a large fry pan, saute the chicken in olive oil until no longer pink and cooked thru. Remove from pan and set aside. Cut into bite size pieces.

In the same pan, add tomatoes, spinach, garlic, pepper flakes(optional, omit if you don't want a spicy dish). Saute until spinach is wilted. Add half the bacon and chicken pieces. Mix together.


Add half and half to chicken mixture and bring to a boil. Add the Parmesan and stir until cheese is melted. Add the drained pasta. Top with bacon and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese to serve.