When you want a comforting pasta dish that’s rich, creamy, and packed with smoky-sweet flavors, Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is the answer. This recipe brings together tender chicken seasoned with smoked paprika and Italian herbs, juicy roasted corn with a spicy kick, and farfalle pasta tossed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. The addition of crispy bacon strips adds a delightful crunch and smoky depth, making each bite a perfect harmony of textures and tastes.

Far from a basic pasta, this dish strikes a beautiful balance between indulgence and freshness. The cream sauce is velvety without being overwhelming, while the corn brings bursts of sweetness and subtle spice. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners when you want something impressive but easy to prepare, and it’s guaranteed to satisfy the whole family.

Whether you’re cooking for guests or craving a cozy meal at home, this recipe is versatile enough to adapt to your pantry and tastes. Garnished with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, it’s a feast that looks as good as it tastes, perfect for pairing with a simple green salad or crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Creamy – The rich sauce coats every pasta bow tie for indulgent satisfaction.
Smoky and Flavorful – Smoked paprika and bacon add deep, savory notes.
Sweet and Spicy Corn – Roasted corn kernels with chili powder add sweetness and a hint of heat.
Easy Weeknight Meal – Quick to prepare with simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
Crowd-Pleaser – Perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends.

Ingredients

Pasta and Cheese

Farfalle bow-tie pasta
Parmesan cheese

Chicken

Chicken thighs or breasts (skinless, boneless)
Smoked paprika
Italian seasoning
Salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Olive oil

Corn

Olive oil
Cooked corn kernels (from corn on the cob)
Salt and pepper
Smoked paprika
Chili powder

Other Ingredients

Heavy cream
Bacon strips (cooked)
Fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, or marjoram)

Variations

Use Chicken Breast or Thighs: Thighs offer juicier texture; breasts are leaner.
Swap Pasta Shapes: Penne, rigatoni, or shells work well if you don’t have farfalle.
Add Vegetables: Toss in sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers.
Make it Vegetarian: Omit chicken and bacon, add mushrooms or extra veggies instead.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream and Parmesan with coconut cream and nutritional yeast.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil farfalle in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and slice.

Step 3: Roast the Corn

In another pan, heat olive oil and sauté cooked corn kernels with smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper until slightly caramelized and fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

In the chicken skillet, add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Add pasta and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the sliced chicken, roasted corn, and cooked bacon pieces to the pasta. Toss gently to combine and heat through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh herbs on top and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente ensures it won’t get mushy when tossed in sauce.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth melting.
Cook bacon until crisp for a satisfying crunch.
If the sauce gets too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually.
Season each component separately for balanced flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this creamy pasta warm in shallow bowls. It pairs beautifully with:

A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Garlic bread or crusty baguette
Light roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli

A chilled white wine or sparkling water with lime complements the richness perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen without bacon. Freeze in portions and thaw overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid the sauce separating. Add liquid as needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, thaw and drain it before sautéing for best results.

2. Can I substitute smoked paprika?

Regular paprika or chili powder can work, but smoked paprika adds essential smoky flavor.

3. What if I don’t have farfalle pasta?

Any medium pasta shape like penne or rotini will work.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and double-check seasoning blends for gluten.

5. How do I keep the sauce from breaking?

Heat gently and avoid boiling the cream sauce.

6. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?

Yes, cook and slice chicken ahead to save time.

7. What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?

Full-fat coconut milk or half-and-half can work but will alter flavor and texture slightly.

8. How spicy is this dish?

Mildly spicy from chili powder, but you can adjust to taste.

9. Can I omit bacon?

Yes, though bacon adds a nice smoky crunch.

10. How do I store leftovers?

In a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta combines smoky, sweet, and savory flavors in a rich, comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an impressive recipe that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this pasta promises a satisfying meal filled with warmth, creaminess, and irresistible flavor. Try it tonight and savor every bite!