Oh my goodness! If you love cozy, hearty meals that make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside, then you are in for a real treat with this creamy broccoli bacon chicken pasta. This dish is a comfort food masterpiece that combines tender pasta, crunchy broccoli, savory chicken, and, of course, crispy bacon, all enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce. Seriously, what’s not to love?
I remember the first time I made this recipe. It was one of those rainy weekends when I just wanted to stay in, whip up something delicious, and binge-watch my favorite shows. As the pasta boiled and the aroma of garlic and bacon filled my kitchen, I knew I was onto something special. Every bite felt like a big hug, and from that moment, it became a staple in my household. It’s perfect for family dinners, quick weeknight meals, or even impressing friends on a casual get-together!
What’s in Creamy Broccoli Bacon Chicken Pasta?
Let’s take a peek at the ingredients that come together to create this scrumptious dish. Each one adds its own special touch that makes every bite heavenly.
Fettuccine or Linguine Pasta: The star of the show! I prefer the texture of fettuccine for this creamy dish, but linguine works just as well if it’s what you have on hand.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh and vibrant, broccoli adds not only a pop of color but also a nice crunch. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat that serves as the base for cooking the chicken and bacon.
Cooked and Shredded Chicken Breast: The protein powerhouse in this recipe. I typically use leftover chicken for convenience, but freshly cooked always hits the spot!
Bacon: Crispy, salty, and simply delicious! Bacon adds that extra layer of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Minced Garlic: Because everything is better with garlic. It adds to the aromatic base of the sauce and gives it that famous comforting flavor.
Heavy Cream: The luscious base for the cream sauce. This is where the magic happens; it makes everything rich and velvety!
Chicken Broth: A splash of chicken broth enhances the flavor of the sauce without weighing it down.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated and added for that cheesy goodness. What’s a creamy pasta dish without ooey-gooey cheese, right?
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all those flavors together.
Fresh Parsley: A colorful and fresh garnish that brightens up the dish. Plus, it adds a little bit of herbaceous flair!
Is Creamy Broccoli Bacon Chicken Pasta Good for You?
Let’s be real—while this dish is creamy and comforting, it does have its nutritional perks.
Broccoli: Packed with vitamins C and K, as well as a good amount of fiber, broccoli is a great addition to any meal. So, you can feel a little less guilty indulging when there’s broccoli involved!
Chicken: A lean source of protein that helps keep you full and satisfied. Perfect for those busy days when you need a wholesome meal!
Bacon: While it adds incredible flavor, bacon is higher in saturated fat and sodium, so moderation is key. A little goes a long way in this recipe!
Of course, if you’re looking for healthier variations, you could swap the heavy cream for a lighter alternative or use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
Ingredients List
– 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
– 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe makes around 4 servings, so it’s perfect for feeding the family or having leftovers for lunch (if you’re lucky enough!).
How to Make Creamy Broccoli Bacon Chicken Pasta?
Ready to create this cozy dish? Let’s get cooking!
1. **Cook the Pasta**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your fettuccine or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Toss in the broccoli florets during the last two minutes of cooking. Drain everything and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Chicken and Bacon**: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add your cooked and shredded chicken along with the crumbled bacon. Stir and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until everything is warmed through.
3. **Add Garlic**: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. It’s going to smell divine!
4. **Make the Cream Sauce**: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting it cook for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens a bit.
5. **Incorporate Cheese**: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce and creates a creamy dream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. **Combine with Pasta**: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet and toss everything together until it’s fully mixed and coated in the sauce. Need more seasoning? Adjust to your liking!
7. **Serve**: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and maybe a sprinkle more of Parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy bite!
Dishing Out Tips and Tricks for Success
Here’s my little treasure trove of tips to elevate your cooking experience:
– **Leftover Chicken**: Use leftovers if you have them! Roast, grilled, or even a rotisserie chicken from the store can save you time.
– **Add More Veggies**: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for more color and nutrients.
– **Make it Healthier**: Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lighter option without losing that creamy goodness.
– **Pasta Alternatives**: If you’re gluten-free, go for your favorite gluten-free pasta. It’ll work just fine!
I can’t wait for you to try this creamy broccoli bacon chicken pasta! It’s one of those recipes that I promise will have everyone coming back for seconds. So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite show, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen. And don’t forget to tell me how it turns out—I love hearing about your cooking adventures! Happy cooking, friend!
