There’s nothing better than a pasta dish that brings together creamy textures, crispy bacon, and tender chicken in one bite! This Penne with Chicken, Broccoli & Bacon is a well-balanced meal with a rich, cheesy sauce, protein-packed chicken, and the freshness of broccoli. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
- 250g chicken breast, diced
- 200g bacon, chopped
- 1 cup broccoli, blanched with a pinch of salt
- 200g penne pasta
- 300g heavy cream
- ½ cup cream cheese
- ½ cup milk
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp paprika
- 50g mozzarella cheese
- 50g parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta: In a large pot, cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the bacon & chicken: In a large pan over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, add the diced chicken and season with salt and paprika. Cook until golden brown.
- Blanch the broccoli: Briefly steam or boil the broccoli for about 2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Make the sauce: In the same pan with the chicken, add the heavy cream, cream cheese, and milk. Stir until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked penne, crispy bacon, and broccoli to the pan. Stir well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.
- Final touch: Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
- Serve & enjoy: Plate the pasta while it’s warm and creamy, garnishing with extra parmesan if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh ingredients: Freshly grated parmesan and mozzarella will enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Don’t overcook the broccoli: Keep it slightly firm so it maintains its texture in the pasta.
- Balance the flavors: If you like a stronger taste, add a pinch of black pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Why This Recipe Works:
This dish is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly smoky flavors. The crispy bacon adds crunch, while the broccoli lightens up the richness of the sauce. The combination of cheeses makes the dish irresistibly gooey, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions!
Enjoy your Creamy Penne with Chicken, Broccoli & Bacon – a dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying!
