Chicken Pesto Penne With Bacon & Feta

A Weeknight Winner: Chicken Pesto Penne with Bacon and Feta

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and satisfying dinner can feel like a Herculean task. Between school pick-ups, soccer practice, and the never-ending cycle of laundry, the thought of spending hours in the kitchen is often overwhelming. But I've discovered a secret weapon in my arsenal of quick and easy meals: this Chicken Pesto Penne with Bacon and Feta. It’s a dish that's both incredibly flavorful and surprisingly simple to make, requiring minimal prep time and even less cleanup. The vibrant pesto sauce, salty bacon, and creamy feta create a symphony of taste that will leave your family wanting more. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, leaving you with plenty of time for other things—like actually relaxing before bedtime!

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Instead of chicken, try using shrimp or sausage. If you're not a fan of bacon, omit it entirely, or substitute pancetta or prosciutto for a different flavor profile. Love mushrooms? Throw in some sliced cremini for an earthy addition. The pesto is also easily customizable. I often use store-bought pesto for convenience, but if you’re feeling adventurous, making your own from scratch is a rewarding experience. Similarly, the type of cheese is totally up to you. Goat cheese or Parmesan would also be delicious alternatives to the feta. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own!

This dish isn't just a quick weeknight meal; it's also surprisingly elegant. It's perfect for a casual dinner party or a romantic night in. The vibrant colors and aromatic flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, and the ease of preparation means you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. The combination of the creamy pesto sauce, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and salty feta is simply irresistible. It’s a dish that satisfies on every level, from the visual appeal to the rich and satisfying taste. The perfect balance of textures and flavors make it a truly memorable meal.

Beyond the ease and deliciousness, this recipe represents something more to me. It's a symbol of how even in the midst of a busy life, we can still find time to nurture ourselves and our families with wholesome, flavorful food. It's a reminder that simple meals can be extraordinary, and that even the most hectic days can end with a satisfying and delicious dinner. And honestly, who needs a fancy restaurant when you can create this level of deliciousness in your own kitchen?

Tips and Tricks for Success:

• Use high-quality ingredients. The better the ingredients, the better the dish will taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality chicken breast, good quality bacon, and a flavorful pesto.
• Don't overcook the chicken. Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Cook it until it's just cooked through and still juicy.
• Don't be afraid to experiment. This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to add your own personal touches.
• Make it ahead. You can prepare the chicken and bacon ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. This will save you time on busy weeknights.
• Serve it with a side salad. A simple side salad will complement the richness of the pasta dish perfectly.

This Chicken Pesto Penne with Bacon and Feta recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the power of simple, delicious food and the joy of sharing a great meal with those you love. It’s a recipe I return to again and again, and I hope it becomes a staple in your kitchen too. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Cook penne according to packet instructions. Drain and set aside.
• Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat.
• Add chicken & bacon and cook until chicken is browned.
• Add sun-dried tomato, basil pesto & baby spinach and cook a further 2 minutes or so until spinach is wilted. Stir to fully combine.
• Add thickened cream and cook a further 1-2 minutes to heat through.
• Add penne and toss to mix through and coat with the pesto sauce.
• Remove from heat, sprinkle with feta and serve.