Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli: 5 Irresistible Tips

About This Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

Why you will love this dish

This Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of comforting flavors and easy cooking. You’ll adore this dish for its incredible balance of savory, creamy, and fresh elements. The crispy bacon provides a delightful crunch and smoky depth, perfectly complementing the tender, juicy chicken. Fresh, vibrant broccoli adds a touch of green and essential nutrients, cutting through the richness of the decadent cheese sauce. It’s a truly satisfying main course that promises a hearty and flavorful experience with every forkful. Ideal for a weeknight family dinner, it’s a recipe that appeals to all ages and skill levels, making home cooking a joy.

Quick facts for busy cooks

For those bustling evenings, this recipe is designed for efficiency without compromising on taste. Expect a total preparation and cook time of approximately 45-55 minutes, making it a fantastic option for a quick pasta recipe. It serves 4-6 people, depending on portion sizes, and leftovers are just as delicious the next day. Most ingredients are pantry staples, requiring minimal specialized shopping. This means less stress and more time enjoying your delicious creation. Consider serving it with a simple side salad for a complete, well-rounded meal. Remember, the goal is a delicious, easy dinner that brings everyone to the table.

Gather Ingredients for Your Recipe

List of all items needed

To create this incredibly delicious Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli, you’ll need a selection of fresh and pantry items. Having everything ready before you start cooking streamlines the process. Here’s a detailed list:

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work best)
• 8 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ensuring you have these ingredients on hand will set you up for success in preparing this family-friendly meal. The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final flavor, so opt for fresh produce and good quality dairy.

Basic kitchen tools for cooking

You don’t need a gourmet kitchen to prepare this wonderful bacon chicken recipe. Most likely, you already own all the necessary equipment. Here’s a checklist of the basic kitchen tools that will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable:

• Large pot for cooking pasta
• Large skillet or Dutch oven (for bacon, chicken, and sauce)
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Colander for draining pasta and bacon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Tongs or spatula

Having these tools organized and ready will ensure a seamless cooking process, from chopping your chicken to stirring the creamy cheese sauce. For more chicken and bacon ideas, check out our Chicken Bacon Ranch Tater Tot Casserole.

Pasta Preparation: First Steps

How to cook pasta perfectly

Achieving perfectly cooked pasta is fundamental to any great pasta dish. To cook your pasta al dente, which means “to the tooth” – firm but not hard – start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Adding salt at this stage seasons the pasta from the inside out, significantly enhancing its flavor. Once boiling, add your chosen pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well for catching the creamy sauce). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, but begin testing a minute or two before the suggested time. You want it firm with a slight bite, not mushy. For more on the history and types of pasta, you can visit Wikipedia’s pasta page.

Draining pasta after cooking

Properly draining your pasta is a simple yet crucial step. Once your pasta is cooked to al dente perfection, carefully drain it using a colander. Do not rinse the pasta. Rinsing removes the starches that help the sauce adhere to the noodles, resulting in a less flavorful dish. While draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. This liquid is a secret weapon for achieving a smooth, emulsified sauce. It helps to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick and binds the cheese and cream together beautifully. Keep this water handy as you move on to preparing the other components of your cheesy pasta.

Cooking Bacon Until Crispy

Best way to crisp bacon

Crispy bacon is a non-negotiable component of this Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli. To achieve that ideal crispness, place the bacon slices in a single layer in a large, cold skillet. This allows the fat to render slowly and evenly, preventing the bacon from burning before it crisps up. Turn the heat to medium-low and cook slowly, flipping the bacon occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of crispness. This slow and steady method ensures perfectly cooked, golden-brown bacon every time. The sizzle and aroma will build anticipation for the rich flavors to come. For another delicious chicken dish featuring bacon, consider making our Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken.

Draining bacon grease well

Once your bacon is perfectly crispy, it’s essential to drain it properly to avoid an overly greasy dish. Using tongs, transfer the cooked bacon slices to a plate lined with several layers of paper towels. This will absorb any excess fat, leaving you with wonderfully crisp bacon bits ready to be crumbled. Do not discard all the bacon grease from the skillet! Reserve about 1-2 tablespoons of this flavorful rendered fat in the pan. This will be used to sauté the chicken and broccoli, imparting a fantastic depth of flavor that butter or olive oil simply can’t replicate. It’s a key step in building the complex taste profile of your cheesy pasta.

Cooking Chicken and Broccoli Perfect

How to dice chicken breast

Properly dicing chicken breast ensures even cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces for your pasta. Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels; this helps them brown better. Place a chicken breast on a clean cutting board. First, slice it horizontally to create thinner cutlets if your breasts are very thick. Then, cut the chicken into uniform strips, and finally, dice these strips into approximately 1-inch cubes. Consistency in size is important, as it allows all the chicken to cook at the same rate, preventing some pieces from becoming overcooked while others are still underdone. This methodical approach contributes to the overall texture of your cheesy chicken pasta.

Sautéing chicken until browned

With your chicken diced, it’s time to infuse it with flavor. Heat the reserved bacon grease (or olive oil if you prefer) in the large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken cubes in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook without disturbing for 3-4 minutes until nicely browned on one side, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until browned on all sides and cooked through. Browning creates a delicious caramelized crust and locks in the juices. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside. For other savory chicken recipes, try our Crispy Parmesan Chicken with a Rich Garlic Sauce.

Cooking broccoli until tender

Broccoli adds a vital splash of color and a healthy crunch to this rich dish. In the same skillet with any remaining bacon fat or a drizzle of olive oil, add your broccoli florets. Sauté them over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are bright green and tender-crisp. You want them to retain a slight bite, not be mushy. If they seem to be drying out, a splash of water or chicken broth can help steam them slightly. Once cooked, remove the broccoli and set it aside with the chicken. This ensures the broccoli is perfectly cooked and doesn’t get overcooked later when combined with the sauce.

Making the Creamy Cheese Sauce

The heart of this Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is its luxurious, creamy cheese sauce. This is where all the flavors truly come together, creating that irresistible richness.

Adding cream and seasonings

Using the same skillet (after briefly wiping out any excess burnt bits, if necessary, but retaining the flavorful fond), reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan; this adds immense flavor. Next, stir in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to your liking. This creates a beautifully seasoned base for your cheesy pasta. The gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld without the cream scorching.

Mixing well for flavor

Once the cream and seasonings are simmering gently, it’s time for the cheese. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese and half of the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously with a whisk until both are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. The starchy pasta water not only thins the sauce but also helps it cling better to the pasta. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. This rich and savory sauce will be the glorious coating for your broccoli pasta, pulling all the elements together.

Combine All Ingredients Together

This is the moment where your individual components transform into a cohesive and utterly delicious Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli. Bringing everything together quickly ensures that the flavors meld beautifully and the dish stays warm.

Stirring in cooked pasta

With your creamy cheese sauce ready, add the cooked and drained pasta directly into the skillet. Toss the pasta gently to ensure every piece is coated in the rich, savory sauce. Next, fold in the cooked chicken and tender broccoli florets. Stir everything together until evenly distributed. If the sauce appears too thick or needs a little more fluidity, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water. This helps create a silky texture that coats all ingredients perfectly, making every bite a delight. The warmth of the pasta will also help integrate the sauce even more. For more dinner ideas, check out our Pinterest page.

Adding crispy bacon bits

The final touch before serving is incorporating the crispy bacon. Crumble the cooled bacon slices into small bits. Add most of these crispy bacon bits to the pasta mixture, stirring them in gently. Reserve a small amount for garnish. The bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy sauce and tender ingredients. This step elevates the dish, providing texture and a burst of flavor that truly completes this easy dinner recipe. Serve immediately to enjoy the best of its cheesy, warm goodness. Keep up with our latest recipes on Instagram!

Serve Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

Once all the delicious components are combined, your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is almost ready to grace your table. The final presentation enhances the appeal of this comforting meal.

Melting cheese right on top

For an extra touch of indulgence, transfer the pasta mixture to a serving dish or individual bowls. Sprinkle the remaining grated Parmesan cheese and a little extra shredded cheddar (if desired) over the top. You can either let the residual heat of the pasta melt the cheese gently, creating a gooey layer, or for a quicker melt, pop the dish under a broiler for a minute or two until bubbly and lightly golden. This creates an irresistible, cheesy crust that adds another layer of flavor and texture to your cheesy pasta. A little fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a vibrant color contrast.

Serving the meal while hot

This dish is best enjoyed immediately while still hot and the sauce is at its creamiest. The warmth brings out all the intricate flavors of the bacon, chicken, and rich sauce. Serve generous portions, garnished with those reserved crispy bacon bits and fresh parsley. This gratinated finish, if you broil the cheese, adds a wonderful dimension. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce. It’s a perfect family-friendly meal that promises to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Tips for Your Pasta with Broccoli

Enhancing your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli experience is easy with a few simple adjustments and considerations.

Adjusting cheese to your taste

The beauty of a cheesy pasta dish lies in its adaptability to personal preferences. While cheddar and Parmesan create a classic, robust flavor profile, don’t hesitate to experiment with other cheeses. For a sharper taste, consider adding some aged provolone or Pecorino Romano. If you prefer a milder, meltier cheese, mozzarella or Monterey Jack would be excellent additions. A blend of cheeses can also introduce more complex flavors. Remember to always shred your own cheese from a block; pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s creaminess and melting quality. Feel free to increase or decrease the total amount of cheese to achieve your desired level of cheesiness. This flexibility ensures your creamy pasta dish is exactly how you love it.

Making Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli Healthier

While this dish is undeniably comforting, there are simple ways to modify your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli to align with healthier eating habits without sacrificing flavor.

Using turkey bacon option

One straightforward swap for reducing fat and calories is to use turkey bacon instead of traditional pork bacon. Turkey bacon offers a similar smoky flavor and crispy texture when cooked properly, but with a significantly lower fat content. When cooking turkey bacon, you might need to add a small amount of olive oil to the skillet as it renders less fat. Ensure it’s cooked until truly crisp to mimic the experience of pork bacon. This simple substitution can make your easy dinner recipe a lighter option while still delivering that satisfying bacon essence.

Gluten-free pasta choices

For those with gluten sensitivities or who prefer a gluten-free diet, this dish is easily adaptable. The market now offers a wide variety of excellent gluten-free pasta options made from corn, rice, quinoa, or legumes. When choosing gluten-free pasta, pay close attention to the cooking instructions, as cooking times can vary significantly from traditional wheat pasta. Cook it until it’s al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy. This ensures everyone can enjoy a delicious and inclusive family-friendly meal, making it accessible to a broader range of dietary needs.

Nutrition for Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli

Understanding the nutritional profile of your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli can help you make informed dietary choices and appreciate the wholesome components of this meal.

Calories per single serving

The caloric content of a single serving of this cheesy pasta can vary based on portion size, specific brands of ingredients, and optional additions like extra cheese or oil. On average, a typical serving (approximately 1.5 cups) might range from 650 to 800 calories. This estimation considers the pasta, chicken, bacon, heavy cream, and cheese. For a more precise calculation tailored to your exact ingredients, utilizing a nutrition calculator is recommended. Being mindful of portion control is key if you are tracking your caloric intake for this rich and satisfying dish.

Protein and fiber details

This Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli is a robust source of protein and provides a good amount of dietary fiber. Protein is primarily contributed by the chicken breast and bacon, with additional protein from the cheese and pasta. A single serving can easily provide 35-45 grams of protein, essential for muscle repair and satiety. The broccoli and whole-wheat pasta options significantly boost the fiber content, which aids in digestion and helps maintain gut health. You might also find other beneficial micronutrients from the broccoli and dairy components, making this a hearty and nourishing option for your dinner ideas.

Enjoy Your Delicious Meal Tonight

You’ve successfully created a truly wonderful Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli. This dish embodies comfort, flavor, and satisfaction, making it a perfect choice for any occasion where a hearty, home-cooked meal is desired. From the initial aroma of sizzling bacon to the final creamy bite, this recipe delivers an experience that is both delightful to prepare and incredibly rewarding to eat. It’s an excellent way to bring restaurant-quality taste right into your kitchen with minimal fuss.

Perfect for family dinner

This creamy pasta dish truly shines as a family-friendly meal. Its universally appealing flavors—crispy bacon, tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce—guarantee smiles around the table, even from the pickiest eaters. It’s hearty enough to satisfy hungry appetites after a long day, yet simple enough that preparing it doesn’t feel like an overwhelming chore for the cook. The combined textures and tastes offer a culinary experience that encourages gathering, sharing stories, and creating lasting memories. Gather your loved ones, dish out generous servings, and relish the warmth and deliciousness of this homemade creation. This recipe is sure to become a cherished addition to your collection of dinner ideas, proving that delicious and nutritious meals can be both easy and enjoyable to make for everyone.