Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner recipe that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food, look no further than cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli. This dish combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, and crispy broccoli florets with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, all baked to perfection in a casserole dish. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

To make cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. This includes pasta, chicken breast, bacon, broccoli, cheese, milk, flour, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. You’ll also need some basic kitchen tools and equipment, such as a large pot, a baking dish, and a whisk. With just a bit of prep work and some easy steps, you can have this delicious and hearty meal on the table in no time.

Key Takeaways

• Cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli is a delicious and easy-to-make dinner recipe that combines chicken, bacon, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a casserole dish.
• To make this recipe, you’ll need simple ingredients like pasta, chicken, bacon, broccoli, cheese, milk, flour, and butter, as well as basic kitchen tools like a pot, a baking dish, and a whisk.
• Follow the preparation steps carefully, including making the cheese sauce and combining all the elements together before baking, and consider serving the dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Overview of Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

If you’re looking for a hearty and flavorful meal, look no further than cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli. This dish is the perfect combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh broccoli, all smothered in a creamy cheese sauce and served over a bed of pasta.

To start, the chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices and cooked until tender and juicy. The bacon is then fried to crispy perfection, adding a salty crunch to the dish. The broccoli is steamed until tender and bright green, adding a pop of color and a healthy dose of vitamins to the meal.

The cheese sauce is the star of the show, combining creamy cheese with milk and a touch of flour to create a rich and velvety sauce that coats the chicken, bacon, and broccoli. The sauce is seasoned with garlic, onion, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

When everything is cooked and combined, the result is a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just looking for a comforting dinner for yourself, cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli is the perfect choice.

Ingredients List

To make Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, you will need several ingredients. Here are the main ingredients you will need:

Pasta and Broccoli

• 8 ounces of uncooked pasta
• 2 cups of broccoli florets

Chicken and Bacon

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 slices of bacon

Cheese and Seasonings

• 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup of heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure you have all these ingredients on hand before you start cooking. You can adjust the quantities of each ingredient according to your taste preferences.

The pasta can be any type you like, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini. The broccoli adds a healthy touch to the dish and complements the cheesy flavor.

For the chicken, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer. The bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor to the dish.

The cheeses and seasonings are what make this dish so delicious. The cheddar cheese provides a creamy, cheesy flavor, while the Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, salty taste. The heavy cream makes the sauce extra rich and creamy, and the garlic powder adds a subtle hint of flavor. Salt and pepper are added to taste, so you can adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Overall, these ingredients work together to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.

Required Kitchen Tools and Equipment

To make Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, you’ll need a few essential tools and equipment. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Large pot: You’ll need a large pot to cook the pasta and broccoli. The pot should be big enough to hold at least 4 quarts of water.
• Colander: You’ll need a colander to drain the pasta and broccoli after cooking.
• Skillet: You’ll need a skillet to cook the chicken and bacon. A non-stick skillet is recommended to prevent the chicken and bacon from sticking.
• Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is ideal for stirring the chicken and bacon in the skillet.
• Cutting board: You’ll need a cutting board to chop the chicken and broccoli.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife is essential for cutting the chicken and broccoli into small pieces.
• Measuring cups and spoons: You’ll need measuring cups and spoons to measure the ingredients accurately.
• Grater: You’ll need a grater to grate the cheese.

Make sure to have all these tools and equipment ready before starting to cook. This will make the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

Preparation Steps

Cooking Pasta

To start, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside until needed.

Preparing Chicken and Bacon

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain. Once the bacon has cooled, crumble it into small pieces.

In the same skillet, add the chicken and cook until it’s no longer pink. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside until needed.

Steaming Broccoli

Fill a medium-sized pot with an inch of water and bring it to a boil. Place the broccoli in a steamer basket and place the basket in the pot. Cover the pot and steam the broccoli for 3-5 minutes, or until it’s tender.

Once the pasta, chicken, bacon, and broccoli are all prepared, you can combine them to make the Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli.

Cheese Sauce Preparation

Making the Roux

To make the cheese sauce for your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, start by making a roux. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk until smooth. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color.

Adding Cheese and Seasonings

Once the roux is ready, slowly add 2 cups of milk while whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. Add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

If you prefer a thinner sauce, add more milk until you reach your desired consistency. If the sauce is too thin, allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

Once your cheese sauce is ready, pour it over your cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, and broccoli. Stir until everything is coated in the delicious cheese sauce. Serve hot and enjoy!

Combining Elements

When it comes to Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, the combination of ingredients is key. Each element brings its own unique flavor and texture to the dish, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal. Here’s how to combine the different elements to create the perfect pasta dish.

Mixing Pasta and Broccoli

The first step in creating Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is to cook the pasta and broccoli. You can cook them separately or together, depending on your preference. If you cook them together, be sure to add the broccoli to the pot a few minutes after the pasta, as it cooks faster. Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, drain them and set them aside.

Incorporating Chicken and Bacon

Next, it’s time to add the chicken and bacon. Cook the bacon in a separate pan until it’s crispy, then remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, cook the chicken until it’s no longer pink. You can season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. Once the chicken is cooked, add the bacon back to the pan and stir to combine.

Final Assembly

Now it’s time to bring all the elements together. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, broccoli, chicken, and bacon. Add the cheese sauce and stir to combine. You can use any type of cheese sauce you like, but a creamy, cheesy sauce works best. Once everything is mixed together, transfer the pasta to a serving dish and top with additional cheese and bacon, if desired.

In conclusion, combining the different elements of Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is a simple process that results in a delicious and satisfying meal. By mixing the pasta and broccoli, incorporating the chicken and bacon, and adding a creamy cheese sauce, you can create a dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Baking Instructions

To bake your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Remove the pasta dish from the fridge and take off the plastic wrap.
3. Place the dish on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
4. If you prefer a crispy top, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking time.
5. Once the dish is done, remove it from the oven using oven mitts or pot holders.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

It’s important to ensure that the chicken is cooked through before consuming. You can use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli straight out of the oven!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you have made your delicious Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, it’s time to think about the perfect way to serve it. Here are a few suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable:

• Garnish – Sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or basil over the top of the dish for a pop of color and added flavor.
• Bread – Serve with garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Salad – A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the pasta.
• Wine – A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with the creamy sauce and chicken.
• Vegetables – If you want to add even more vegetables to your meal, try serving with a side of roasted asparagus or sautéed mushrooms.

No matter how you choose to serve your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftover Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate it within 2 hours of cooking. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.

When reheating the pasta, it is recommended to use a microwave or oven to retain its texture and flavor. To reheat in the microwave, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, and microwave it for 1-2 minutes. Stir the pasta and continue microwaving it in 30-second intervals until it is heated through.

To reheat in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake it for 15-20 minutes or until it is heated through. You can also add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta before reheating it to prevent it from drying out.

It is important to note that reheating pasta multiple times can result in a loss of flavor and texture. Therefore, it is recommended to only reheat the amount of pasta you plan on eating. Also, avoid leaving the pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Related Recipes:

• Don’t Miss Out on This Irresistible Crack Chicken Recipe!
• Loaded Taco-Stuffed Cheesy Pockets
• Cry Baby Noodles Recipe: Spice Up Your Meals!

FAQs

What ingredients are needed for a cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli dish?

To make a cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli dish, you will need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz. pasta (penne, fusilli, or any other pasta of your choice)
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 head of broccoli, cut into small florets
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Can I make cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli without using cream?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk. However, keep in mind that the dish will not be as creamy as the original recipe.

How can I turn this dish into a baked casserole?

To turn this dish into a baked casserole, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions and drain.
3. In a large skillet, cook the chicken and bacon until browned.
4. Add the broccoli and cook for a few minutes until tender.
5. Add the cooked pasta, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet and mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

What are the steps to prepare cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli?

To prepare cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli, follow these steps:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions and drain.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chicken and bacon until browned.
3. Add the broccoli and cook for a few minutes until tender.
4. Add the cooked pasta, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet and mix well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Is there a way to make a healthier version of cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli?

Yes, you can make a healthier version of this dish by using whole wheat pasta, turkey bacon, and low-fat milk instead of heavy cream. You can also add more vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to increase the nutritional value.

How can I store and reheat leftovers of cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli?

To store leftovers, transfer the pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave the pasta for 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

---

📖 Recipe

Print