Seafood

Cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli 2023

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 boxes of penne pasta
  • 2 cans of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies
  • 2 bags of pre-cooked rotisserie-style chicken, shredded
  • 1 bag of broccoli, florets
  • 2 small bags of apple-smoked real bacon bits
  • 1 small box of Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 bag of El Paso 3 pepper cheese (or any shredded cheese of your choice)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare Pasta and Broccoli:
    • Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions.
    • In the last 5 minutes of pasta cooking time, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Cook until pasta is al dente and broccoli is tender-crisp. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare Cheesy Sauce:
    • In a separate saucepan, melt the Velveeta cheese with one can of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies over medium heat. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and combined with the Rotel.
  3. Warm Chicken:
    • In a microwave or on the stovetop, warm up the pre-cooked rotisserie-style chicken until heated through.
  4. Combine Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and drained pasta and broccoli.
    • Add the shredded chicken, bacon bits, and the melted Velveeta and Rotel mixture. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
  5. Add Shredded Cheese:
    • Gradually add the El Paso 3 pepper cheese (or your preferred shredded cheese) to the pasta mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well-coated.
  6. Final Touch:
    • If desired, add the second can of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies for an extra kick. Mix well to combine.
  7. Serve:
    • Dish out the cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli into individual serving plates. Garnish with additional shredded cheese, if desired.
  8. Enjoy:
    • Serve the delicious cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli immediately while it’s hot. Enjoy your flavorful and comforting meal!

Popular Questions and Answers:

Here are some potential questions and answers that might arise regarding the Easy Cheesy bacon chicken pasta with broccoli:

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

  • Absolutely! While the recipe suggests penne pasta, you can use any pasta variety you prefer or have on hand. Fusilli, rigatoni, or rotini would work well.

2. Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?

  • Yes, you can substitute fresh broccoli for frozen. Simply blanch the fresh broccoli in boiling water for a few minutes until it’s tender-crisp, then proceed with the recipe.

3. Is there a substitute for Velveeta cheese?

  • If you prefer, you can use a combination of shredded cheddar and cream cheese as a substitute for Velveeta. Adjust the quantity to achieve the desired creaminess.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

  • While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble them when ready to serve. Reheat gently to preserve the creaminess of the cheese.

5. Can I add more vegetables to the pasta?

  • Certainly! Feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.

6. How can I store leftovers?

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

7. Can I make this recipe spicy?

  • Yes, you can add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheesy sauce for a spicy kick. You can also choose a spicier variety of Rotel tomatoes and green chilies.

8. What other cheese options can I use for topping?

  • Experiment with different shredded cheeses such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for added flavor and variety.

9. How can I make this dish more protein-packed?

  • Consider adding cooked and crumbled sausage or ground turkey along with the chicken for an extra protein boost.

10. Can I freeze this dish?

  • While pasta dishes with cheese may not freeze perfectly, you can freeze the individual components and assemble them when ready to serve. Keep in mind that the texture of the pasta may be slightly different after freezing.

Here are some helpful tips to enhance the deliciousness of your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli:

  1. Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh broccoli, good-quality bacon bits, and a flavorful rotisserie chicken will elevate the dish.
  2. Seasoning: Don’t forget to season each component. Add salt and pepper to taste during the pasta and broccoli cooking process, and season the chicken with your favorite spices for an extra boost of flavor.
  3. Cheese Blend: Experiment with different cheese blends to add complexity to the dish. Mix in some sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a smoky Gouda for added richness.
  4. Fresh Herbs: Garnish the finished dish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley, basil, or chives. The freshness of herbs adds a burst of flavor and a touch of brightness.
  5. Garlic Infusion: Sauté minced garlic in a bit of olive oil before adding the cheese. This will infuse a subtle garlic flavor into the dish, enhancing its overall taste.
  6. Spice it Up: If you enjoy heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
  7. Crunchy Topping: Before serving, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or crushed croutons on top for a delightful crunchy texture contrast.
  8. Extra Cheese on Top: Just before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the individual servings. Melt it slightly by placing the dish under the broiler for a minute or two.
  9. Creamy Texture: To maintain a creamy consistency, reserve some pasta cooking water. Add a splash if the dish becomes too thick during the mixing process.
  10. Customize with Vegetables: Add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach for a colorful and nutritious twist. Sauté them lightly before mixing with the pasta.
  11. Serve with Garlic Bread: Accompany the dish with homemade garlic bread or crusty baguette slices. The bread can be used to soak up the delicious cheesy sauce.
  12. Drizzle of Olive Oil: Finish each serving with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance the overall richness of the dish.

Remember, these tips are meant to be a starting point. Feel free to tailor the recipe to your taste preferences, and don’t be afraid to get creative with additional ingredients and seasonings. Enjoy your delightful Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli!

Here are some tips to help you create a sensational dish:

  1. Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the pasta is cooked al dente to maintain a pleasing texture. Overcooked pasta can become mushy, so follow the recommended cooking time on the package.
  2. Timing is Key for Broccoli: Cook the broccoli for just the right amount of time. You want it tender-crisp, not mushy. If using fresh broccoli, blanch it briefly to preserve its vibrant color and texture.
  3. Flavorful Bacon Bits: Choose high-quality bacon bits or, better yet, cook and crumble real bacon for the best flavor. The smokiness of apple-smoked bacon can add an extra layer of deliciousness.
  4. Melting the Cheese: When melting the Velveeta cheese, do so over medium heat and stir continuously to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. This ensures a smooth and creamy cheese sauce.
  5. Season Every Layer: Season each component of the dish separately. Add salt and pepper to the pasta and broccoli while they are cooking, and season the chicken with your preferred spices for a flavorful result.
  6. Warm Chicken: Warm the shredded rotisserie chicken just before incorporating it into the pasta. This ensures that it blends seamlessly and contributes to the overall warmth of the dish.
  7. Use Rotel Wisely: Adding one can of Rotel to the cheese sauce provides a burst of flavor. Consider draining excess liquid from the Rotel to control the sauce’s consistency.
  8. Gradual Cheese Addition: When adding shredded cheese to the pasta, do so gradually and stir continuously. This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, evenly coated result.
  9. Experiment with Cheese Blend: Mix different types of shredded cheese for a more complex flavor profile. Combining sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a hint of Parmesan can enhance the overall taste.
  10. Garnish Thoughtfully: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil not only add a burst of color but also contribute to the overall freshness of the dish.
  11. Serve Immediately: This pasta dish is best enjoyed right after preparation while the cheese is still gooey and the flavors are at their peak. Serve it hot for the most delightful experience.
  12. Customization: Don’t hesitate to tailor the recipe to your preferences. Adjust the spice level, cheese variety, or add extra vegetables to make it uniquely yours.

By paying attention to these details, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the perfect Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli that will impress your taste buds and those of anyone lucky enough to enjoy it with you.