There’s something magical about a dish that brings everyone to the table with a grin before the first forkful even hits their mouth. This Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is one of those winners that makes you feel like you’ve just wrapped yourself in a warm, cheesy blanket of comfort. The tender chicken bites mingle effortlessly with crisp, smoky bacon, while vibrant green florets of broccoli offer just the right pop of freshness. Every swirl of creamy cheddar and Parmesan sauce coats the penne pasta in a silky hug that’s impossible to resist. As I stir the sauce and watch it thicken, I can’t help but get excited for that first heavenly bite.
One rainy evening, I decided to experiment with a pinch of nutmeg in the cream sauce, and the little twist elevated the dish to a whole new level of cozy indulgence. It’s a perfect weekend treat or a midweek lifeline when you need dinner to feel special without demanding all your time. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and around 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in under an hour. At roughly 600 calories per serving, it’s rich and filling, yet balanced by the broccoli’s bright crunch. Whether you serve it for a casual family dinner or bring it to a potluck, this pasta always makes you look like the culinary hero of the hour.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CHEESY BACON CHICKEN PASTA WITH BROCCOLI
Before diving into the recipe, let’s talk about the stars of the show. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that irresistible creamy consistency you’re craving. From the backbone of al dente pasta to the final sprinkle of fresh parsley, every element comes together in perfect harmony.
- Penne pasta
A sturdy, tube-shaped pasta that soaks up the luscious cheese sauce in every hollow. Its firm texture ensures it remains al dente without turning mushy when combined with the rich sauce.
- Olive oil
Provides the perfect non-stick surface and adds a subtle fruity note as you cook bacon and chicken in the skillet, helping to build the base flavors for your sauce.
- Bacon
Delivers smoky, salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender chicken. Cooking it until crispy ensures maximum texture.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cut into bite-sized pieces, these cook quickly and evenly. They absorb the sauce’s flavors, remaining juicy and flavorful throughout each bite.
- Salt and pepper
The simplest seasoning duo that enhances all the ingredients, bringing out their natural flavors. Always adjust to taste for perfect balance.
- Garlic
When minced and sautéed briefly, garlic infuses the sauce with an aromatic kick without overpowering the cheese.
- Heavy cream
Provides the luxurious, velvety body of the sauce. Its high fat content is key to achieving that indulgent mouthfeel.
- Chicken broth
Adds depth and savory complexity to the cream base, balancing richness with a hint of umami.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Offers sharp, tangy notes and helps thicken the sauce as it melts, creating that signature gooey texture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Introduces a nutty, salty edge and ensures the sauce stays smooth and well-emulsified.
- Broccoli florets
Bring a pop of vibrant color and a tender-crisp bite. Steaming in the sauce until just tender preserves their bright flavor and nutrition.
- Butter
Stirs in at the end for an added glossy sheen and a touch of decadent richness.
- Fresh parsley
A final flourish of herbal freshness that lifts the dish and adds a burst of color right before serving.
HOW TO MAKE CHEESY BACON CHICKEN PASTA WITH BROCCOLI
Bringing this comfort food to life is straightforward, but there are a few key techniques to keep in mind. From boiling your pasta to achieving that perfect sauce consistency, following these steps will ensure your dish is creamy, balanced, and utterly crave-worthy.
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—tender yet firm to the bite. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, tossing it with a little oil if needed to keep the pieces separate.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, pour in the olive oil. When the oil shimmers, add the chopped bacon and cook until it’s crispy, about 5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
3. In that same skillet, add the bite-sized chicken pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper, then cook until each piece is golden brown and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a clean plate and set aside.
4. Reduce the heat slightly and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant and just begins to turn golden.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer the mixture for about 3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly, creating the foundation for your sauce.
6. Lower the heat to low and gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan until the sauce is completely smooth and creamy. Make sure no lumps remain.
7. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet, gently stirring them into the cheese sauce. Cover the pan and let them steam for 3–4 minutes until they’re tender but still vibrant green.
8. Return the cooked chicken and crispy bacon to the skillet. Stir everything together so that each piece is coated in the luscious sauce.
9. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss until the penne is evenly coated and every bite promises a hit of cheesy goodness.
10. Drop in the butter and stir until it melts completely, adding extra shine and richness to the dish.
11. Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed. Finish with a generous garnish of fresh chopped parsley before serving.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CHEESY BACON CHICKEN PASTA WITH BROCCOLI
Serving this pasta is just as fun as making it. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating friends to a cozy dinner, the way you present and pair it can elevate the entire experience. Here are some delightful ways to showcase your creation and make every forkful feel special.
- Family-Style Platter
Pile the pasta into a deep, wide serving dish and let everyone help themselves. The communal vibe invites casual chatter and gives the table a warm, homey feel.
- Crispy Garlic Bread
Slice a fresh baguette, brush with garlic-infused butter, and toast until golden. The crunch and buttery garlic notes complement the creamy pasta perfectly.
- Bright Side Salad
Serve alongside a crisp salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette. The acidity and crunch cut through the richness in the pasta, balancing the meal.
- Drizzle of Chili Oil
For those who love a little heat, add a gentle swirl of chili oil on top of each serving. The fiery kick contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy sauce.
HOW TO STORE CHEESY BACON CHICKEN PASTA WITH BROCCOLI
Leftovers can be every bit as satisfying as the first serving when stored properly. Ensuring that your pasta maintains its creamy consistency and vibrant broccoli texture will make reheating a pleasure rather than a chore. Here are a few trusted methods to keep this dish fresh for up to three days.
- Airtight Container
Transfer cooled pasta into a sealed container, squeezing out excess air to prevent moisture buildup. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days.
- Glass Storage Dish
Using a shallow glass dish with a tight-fitting lid helps the pasta cool evenly and reheats more uniformly. Heat portions in the oven or microwave, covered, until warm.
- Stovetop Reheat
For best texture, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce and restore its silky consistency.
- Freezing Option
Although cheese sauces can sometimes separate, you can freeze individual portions in heavy-duty freezer bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stovetop with extra liquid to bring back creaminess.
CONCLUSION
From the first bite of tender chicken and crispy bacon to the last swirl of creamy cheese coating al dente penne, this Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. We’ve walked through each key ingredient—from bold cheddar and nutty Parmesan to bright broccoli florets—and detailed every step, from boiling salted pasta water to the final garnish of fresh parsley. Whether you’re a home cook looking for a comforting weeknight meal or hosting friends for lunch, this intermediate-level recipe delivers on flavor, texture, and visual appeal. With a total prep time of just 15 minutes and a 30-minute cook time, you’ll have a satisfying dish that feels both indulgent and homey, clocking in around 600 calories per serving.
Feel free to print and save this article for future dinners, and remember that a handy FAQ section follows if you need quick tips or troubleshooting advice. I’d love to hear how your version turns out—drop a comment with your own tweaks, ask questions about any of the steps, or share feedback if you hit upon a delicious twist of your own. Your kitchen stories and suggestions are what make cooking together such a joy, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help or want to celebrate your culinary triumph!
Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli
Description
This Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and vibrant broccoli in a luscious cheese sauce. Perfect for any night!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the penne pasta, and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
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Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 3 minutes until it starts to thicken.
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Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
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Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and stir them into the cream sauce. Cover and let them steam for about 3-4 minutes until tender.
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Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet, stirring to combine with the broccoli and cheese sauce.
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Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, and toss all ingredients together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
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Stir in the butter until it melts throughout the pasta.
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Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Note
- For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cream sauce.
- This dish can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
