Creamy Broccoli Turkey Bacon Chicken Pasta

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite hits the spot like a big bowl of creamy pasta. This Creamy Broccoli Turkey Bacon Chicken Pasta combines everything you love about hearty, home-cooked meals into one dish. Juicy chicken, crispy turkey bacon, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce. It’s an irresistible combination that feels indulgent but can also be packed with nutritious ingredients like lean protein and vegetables. This one-pot meal is a hit with families, quick enough for weeknights, and sophisticated enough to serve at dinner parties. If you’re craving creamy, cheesy, and satisfying flavors with a touch of freshness, this recipe is for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall in love with this dish:

1. Perfect Balance of Creaminess and Freshness: The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with the fresh, crisp broccoli.
2. Protein-Packed: With chicken and turkey bacon, this dish is a high-protein powerhouse.
3. Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy pasta, while adults enjoy the complex flavors of the bacon and chicken.
4. One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
5. Customizable: Swap out ingredients or add extras to suit your preferences, from mushrooms to spinach or even a spicy kick!
6. Great for Leftovers: This pasta reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for days to come.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 generous bowl

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 480
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 19g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

To make this flavorful and creamy pasta dish, you’ll need:

For the Chicken and Bacon:

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340 g) penne, rigatoni, or any short pasta
• 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
• 4 cups chicken broth (or water with 1 bouillon cube)

For the Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra grated Parmesan
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Bacon: Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

3. Season the Chicken: Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Sear the Chicken: In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the chicken pieces. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside with the bacon.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli

5. Add Pasta and Broth: To the same skillet, add the uncooked pasta and chicken broth. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
6. Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
7. Add the Broccoli: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Cover again and let the broccoli steam while the pasta finishes cooking.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

8. Sauté Garlic: Push the cooked pasta and broccoli to one side of the skillet and add the butter to the empty space. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
9. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir everything together until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

10. Add Chicken and Bacon: Return the cooked chicken and turkey bacon to the skillet. Stir to combine and let everything heat through for 2–3 minutes.
11. Season to Taste: Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

12. Serve: Transfer the pasta to bowls or plates and garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Ingredient Background

Chicken:

Chicken breast is lean and works perfectly in this recipe, but chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option.

Turkey Bacon:

Turkey bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor without the extra fat of regular bacon. For an even bolder flavor, you can use regular bacon.

Broccoli:

Broccoli not only adds freshness and texture but also provides a boost of vitamins, making this dish more nutritious.

Parmesan Cheese:

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is the key to a creamy, rich sauce. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it may not melt as smoothly.

Dijon Mustard:

While optional, Dijon mustard adds a subtle tangy depth to the sauce that elevates the overall flavor.

Technique Tips

1. Cook Pasta in Broth: Cooking the pasta in chicken broth infuses it with flavor and eliminates the need to drain, simplifying the process.
2. Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Add the broccoli in the last 5 minutes of cooking to keep it tender yet crisp.
3. Use Fresh Cheese: For the creamiest sauce, always use freshly grated Parmesan and softened cream cheese.
4. Season Gradually: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to avoid over-salting the dish.
5. Deglaze the Pan: Scrape the bottom of the pan when adding the broth to incorporate all the delicious browned bits from cooking the chicken and bacon.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Casserole Style: Transfer the cooked pasta to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
• Individual Servings: Serve the pasta in small cast-iron skillets or ramekins for a rustic, restaurant-style presentation.
• Pasta Bar: Set up a pasta bar with additional toppings like crushed nuts, sun-dried tomatoes, or crumbled feta for guests to customize their plates.

Additional Tips for Success

• Make It in Advance: Cook the chicken, bacon, and broccoli ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Combine everything with freshly cooked pasta and sauce for a quick dinner.
• Add a Kick: For a spicy version, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
• Boost Veggies: Toss in extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.

Recipe Variations

Gluten-Free Option:

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure that your chicken broth is certified gluten-free.

Low-Carb Version:

Replace the pasta with spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash for a lighter, low-carb meal.

Vegetarian Adaptation:

Omit the chicken and turkey bacon, and add roasted vegetables or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

Extra Cheesy:

Top the pasta with shredded mozzarella or gouda and broil until melted and golden.

Spicy Southwest Twist:

Add a teaspoon of chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of smoked paprika for a Southwest-inspired flavor profile.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing:

• Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for added fiber and protein.
• Substitute the heavy cream with evaporated milk or unsweetened almond milk for a lower-calorie sauce.
• Add more broccoli or other vegetables to increase the dish’s nutrient density.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Weeknight Dinner: Pair with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Dinner Parties: Serve alongside roasted asparagus and a chilled glass of white wine.
• Potluck Favorite: Bring it in a slow cooker to keep it warm and easy to serve.

Special Equipment

• Large skillet or Dutch oven for one-pot cooking.
• Box grater for freshly shredding Parmesan.
• Tongs for tossing the pasta and sauce together.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes! Any short pasta, like fusilli, farfalle, or shells, works well in this dish.

2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based milk.

3. Can I substitute turkey bacon?
Yes, regular bacon or pancetta are great substitutes, but they will increase the fat content.

4. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Definitely. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut and can be added during the final step.

5. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with two tablespoons of cold water.

6. Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! Most kids love the creamy, cheesy pasta, but you can omit the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor.

7. Can I add other cheeses?
Of course! Mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack are excellent additions to this dish.

8. Can I omit the broccoli?
You can, but broccoli adds a nice balance to the dish. Replace it with another vegetable like spinach or green beans if preferred.

Conclusion

Creamy Broccoli Turkey Bacon Chicken Pasta is a perfect combination of hearty, creamy, and fresh flavors. This one-pot dish is packed with protein, tender pasta, and a rich, cheesy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Try it tonight and experience the ultimate comfort food!

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