Pasta dishes have always been a favorite in many households due to their versatility and the comfort they bring to the dinner table. Among the myriad of pasta recipes, the Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli stands out as a heartwarming dish that combines the richness of cheese and bacon with the nutritional goodness of chicken and broccoli. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a balanced meal that’s relatively easy to prepare.
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli 😍
This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal with friends. It’s a complete dish that includes protein, vegetables, and dairy, all enveloped in the comforting goodness of pasta.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces of penne or your favorite pasta
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups of broccoli florets
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
Directions:
- Start by cooking the pasta as per the package instructions. To infuse the pasta with extra nutrition and flavor, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Once done, drain the pasta and broccoli and set them aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it reaches a crispy texture. Remove the bacon and place it on a paper towel to drain, keeping the bacon fat in the skillet for added flavor.
- Using the same skillet, add olive oil and cook the chicken pieces seasoned with salt and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is well-browned and cooked through.
- Add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes to the chicken, cooking for an additional minute to release the flavors.
- Lower the heat, then pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir the mixture continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency.
- Combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with the creamy chicken sauce, tossing everything together to ensure the pasta and broccoli are evenly coated.
- Finally, sprinkle the crispy bacon over the top of the pasta, adding a delightful crunch and rich flavor to the dish.
Preparation and Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 550 kcal per serving
- Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings
This Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is a wonderful dish that brings together the comforting taste of pasta with the hearty flavors of chicken and bacon, all balanced with the freshness of broccoli. It’s a versatile recipe that can be tweaked to suit your taste preferences, such as adding more vegetables or adjusting the level of spiciness. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.