Introduction to Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is a delicious and satisfying one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, nutritious broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce tossed with pasta. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients Required
To make Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, you’ll need:
- Pasta (such as penne, fusilli, or rotini)
- Chicken breasts or thighs
- Bacon
- Broccoli florets
- Butter
- All-purpose flour
- Milk
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt, pepper, and garlic powder
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley
Preparation of Ingredients
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Cook and dice the chicken, cook and crumble the bacon, and blanch the broccoli florets until tender-crisp.
Cooking the Dish
Cooking the Pasta
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Bacon and Chicken
In the same pot, cook the bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside. In the bacon grease, cook the diced chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
Adding Broccoli and Sauce
Add the blanched broccoli florets to the pot with the cooked chicken. In a separate saucepan, melt butter, whisk in flour to create a roux, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Add shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Pour the cheese sauce over the chicken and broccoli in the pot, then add the cooked pasta and crispy bacon. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, if desired. It pairs well with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Health Considerations
While Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is a rich and indulgent dish, you can make it healthier by using whole wheat pasta, lean chicken breast, turkey bacon, and reducing the amount of cheese and butter in the sauce. You can also increase the amount of broccoli for added nutrition.
Tips for Success
- Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the other ingredients.
- Be sure to drain the cooked pasta well to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
- Customize the dish by adding additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With its combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, vibrant broccoli, and creamy cheese sauce, it’s a meal that will leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds.
FAQs
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken or bacon for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken or bacon for convenience, but cooking them fresh will yield the best flavor and texture.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the components of the dish ahead of time and assemble it just before serving. Bake it in the oven until heated through.
- Can I use a different type of cheese for the sauce?
- Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Swiss for a different flavor profile.
- Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
- Yes, you can use frozen broccoli for convenience, but fresh broccoli will yield the best texture and flavor.
- Can I make this dish vegetarian?
- Yes, you can omit the chicken and bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version of the dish.
