Ingredients:
- 8 ounces penne or your favorite pasta
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon from the skillet and set aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried Italian seasoning.
- In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the seasoned chicken. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the broccoli and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated in the cheesy sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper if needed.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli hot and enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich and Cheesy: A decadent combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses.
- Flavorful Chicken: Tender chicken seasoned to perfection.
- Quick and Easy: A simple yet impressive dish ready in no time.
Tips for Enjoyment:
- Customize the pasta shape to your preference.
- Add a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A1: Certainly! Choose your favorite pasta shape for a personalized touch.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate, then reheat when ready to serve.
Q3: Can I substitute heavy cream with a lighter option?
A3: Yes, you can use half-and-half or milk, but it may alter the richness of the dish.
Conclusion:
Our Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is a culinary masterpiece that brings together the best of pasta, chicken, and cheese in one delightful dish. It’s a flavor-packed adventure that will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. Customize it to your liking, serve it hot, and relish every bite of this heavenly pasta creation!