Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon
Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon is a classic, crowd-pleasing dish that has become a staple in many households. This recipe combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, crisp broccoli, and savory bacon, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave you and your family craving more.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend indulgence, this recipe delivers. The combination of the creamy pasta, the juicy chicken, and the smoky bacon creates a comfort food experience that is hard to resist.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
What sets this Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon apart is the way it balances the various components. The tender chicken provides a protein-rich base, while the broccoli adds a delightful crunch and nutritional boost. The bacon lends a savory, smoky note that ties everything together, and the creamy pasta serves as the perfect vehicle for all these flavors.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. It can be easily customized to suit your dietary needs or personal preferences, making it a go-to option for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to please.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon ❓
• 8 oz. penne pasta
• 1 head of broccoli, florets cut into bite-size pieces
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
The beauty of this Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of tender chicken, broccoli, and smoky bacon creates the Italian-inspired flavor profile that has made pasta dishes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the skillet.
• Step 3: Add the cubed chicken to the bacon grease in the skillet. Cook the chicken over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
• Step 4: In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets and a splash of water. Cover and cook for 3-5 minutes, until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Remove the broccoli from the skillet and set aside.
• Step 5: In the same skillet, add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and thyme. Whisk to combine and simmer for 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
• Step 6: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Step 7: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top of the pasta just before serving.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
Compared to traditional baked pasta dishes which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon saves you over 25% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 6 servings):
• Protein: 29g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 588mg
These Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon provide approximately 58% of your daily protein requirements and 16% of your daily carbohydrate needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Substitute the penne pasta with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use a dairy-free milk alternative and vegan Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast.
• Added protein: Increase the amount of chicken or add cooked shrimp or tofu for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 25% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a crisp white wine or a light, refreshing beverage
• Complement with a bowl of minestrone soup or a Caesar salad for a complete meal
• For a family-style gathering, serve the Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon alongside roasted potatoes and a side of steamed green beans
• Create an impressive dinner party platter with the Chicken Pasta, a selection of artisanal cheeses, and a variety of crostini or crackers
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Overcrowding the skillet: Cook the chicken and vegetables in batches to ensure even browning and prevent steaming.
• Not seasoning properly: Be generous with the salt and pepper to bring out the flavors of the dish.
• Skipping the bacon: The smoky, salty bacon is a crucial component that adds depth and richness to the overall dish.
• Not reserving pasta water: The starchy pasta water can help thicken the sauce and create a smoother consistency.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Freezing baked: Allow the dish to cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be prepared up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the pasta, chicken, and vegetables, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the components and toss them together with the sauce.
Can I substitute the chicken with a different protein?
Yes, you can easily swap the chicken for other proteins, such as shrimp, Italian sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the protein is cooked through.
Is this recipe gluten-free or low-carb?
To make this recipe gluten-free, you can use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles instead of the regular penne. For a lower-carb version, use shirataki noodles or a combination of zucchini noodles and a small amount of penne pasta.
What can I do if the sauce seems too thin?
If the sauce appears too thin, you can thicken it by simmering it for a few more minutes or by adding a small amount of cornstarch or arrowroot powder mixed with water. Start with 1 teaspoon of cornstarch and add more as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Can I add any other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile, and you can easily incorporate additional vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Conclusion
These Chicken Pasta with Broccoli and Bacon represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion meal, they’re sure to impress with their creamy, comforting texture and dynamic flavor profile. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Chicken Pasta dishes demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the cooking process. So why not give this recipe a try and treat your taste buds to a delightful and nourishing meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite?
