Introduction
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and nutritious broccoli, all smothered in a rich and creamy cheese sauce. This hearty meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, bringing together a medley of flavors and textures that everyone will love. The addition of broccoli not only adds a pop of color but also balances the richness of the cheese sauce, making this dish as nutritious as it is delicious.
What You’ll Need
Essential Equipment
To prepare this delicious pasta dish, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Large pot: For boiling the pasta.
- Large skillet: For cooking the bacon, chicken, broccoli, and sauce.
- Cutting board and knife: For chopping the bacon, chicken, and broccoli.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.
- Tongs: For handling the chicken and mixing the pasta with the sauce.
Key Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta of your choice: The base of the dish, providing a comforting, starchy element that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- 2 chicken breasts, diced: The main protein, bringing tender, juicy bites to the dish.
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped: Adds a smoky, crispy texture and savory flavor that complements the chicken and cream sauce.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds a healthy, vibrant green element that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding a sharp, rich flavor.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The base of the sauce, making it rich and creamy.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with a rich, aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a blend of herbs that enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the best in all the ingredients.
Ingredient Preparation
Proper preparation of the ingredients ensures that the dish comes together quickly and smoothly.
Preparing the Pasta and Chicken
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Al dente pasta holds up well in the sauce and adds a pleasant chew to the dish.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the diced chicken. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Instructions
Cooking the Broccoli and Making the Sauce
- Cook the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets. Cook for 3-4 minutes over medium heat, or until the broccoli is slightly tender but still bright green. The broccoli adds a healthy crunch and balances the richness of the cheese sauce.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the broccoli and cook for an additional 1 minute, just until fragrant. Garlic adds depth and warmth to the sauce, making it more flavorful.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This cheese sauce is the star of the dish, bringing all the ingredients together with its rich, indulgent flavor.
Combining Everything
- Add the Pasta, Chicken, and Bacon: Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked pasta, chicken, and crispy bacon back into the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta and meats are well coated with the sauce. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying and comforting meal.
- Serve Hot: Serve the Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli hot, straight from the skillet. The dish is best enjoyed fresh, when the sauce is at its creamiest and the ingredients are perfectly cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Serving
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is a complete meal on its own, but it can also be paired with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a more substantial dinner. This dish is perfect for family meals, dinner parties, or any occasion where comfort food is on the menu. The rich, cheesy sauce combined with the tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh broccoli makes it a dish that everyone will love.
Storage
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce needs loosening. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Variations
Customizing Your Pasta Dish
This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit different tastes:
- Different Proteins: Swap the chicken for shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a different protein option.
- Cheese Options: Try using different cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or fontina for a unique flavor twist.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for more texture and flavor.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini all work well in this dish, as they hold the sauce nicely.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though the sauce will be less thick and rich.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble the dish just before serving. The bacon, chicken, and sauce can be cooked ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, combine everything and heat through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is a rich, comforting meal that combines savory bacon, tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy cheese sauce with pasta. It’s the perfect dish for those nights when you want something hearty and indulgent yet still full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish is sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful!