Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful? Look no further than our Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli. This recipe combines the creamy richness of Velveeta cheese, the smokiness of apple-smoked bacon bits, and the zest of Rotel tomatoes to create a meal that’s sure to satisfy the whole family. With the convenience of pre-cooked rotisserie chicken and frozen broccoli, this dish comes together in a snap, making it perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients:
- 2 boxes of penne pasta
- 2 cans of Rotel tomatoes
- 2 bags of precooked rotisserie-style chicken
- 1 bag of broccoli
- 2 small bags of apple-smoked real bacon bits
- 1 small box of Velveeta cheese
- 1 bag of El Paso 3 pepper cheese (or your favorite shredded cheese)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta and Broccoli:
In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. During the last few minutes of cooking, add the broccoli to the pot. Once cooked, drain the pasta and broccoli and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
While the pasta and broccoli are cooking, melt the Velveeta cheese in a medium saucepan over low heat. Add one can of Rotel tomatoes to the melted cheese, stirring until well combined and smooth.
3. Warm the Chicken:
In a separate pan, warm the precooked rotisserie-style chicken until heated through.
4. Combine the Ingredients:
In the pot used to cook the pasta, add the drained pasta and broccoli. Mix in the bag of El Paso 3 pepper cheese until it melts and coats the pasta evenly. Next, stir in the melted Velveeta and Rotel cheese sauce. Add the apple-smoked bacon bits and the warmed chicken to the pasta mixture. Finally, stir in the second can of Rotel tomatoes, mixing until all ingredients are well combined.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil on top of your pasta for a burst of color and a hint of freshness.
- Pair with Sides: Serve your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli alongside a fresh green salad or a warm slice of garlic bread to complete the meal.
- Add Extra Cheese: For an extra cheesy delight, top each serving with a bit more shredded cheese just before serving. Allow the heat from the pasta to melt it slightly.
- Spice it Up: If you like a bit more heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top or add a few dashes of hot sauce.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the pasta to help maintain its creamy consistency. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
- Freezing: If you plan to freeze leftovers, place them in a freezer-safe container. For best results, consume within 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Batch Cooking: This recipe is great for batch cooking. You can prepare it ahead of time and portion it into individual servings for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli at its best, whether fresh out of the pot or as a convenient leftover. This versatile dish not only provides a hearty and delicious meal but also offers the convenience of easy preparation and storage, making it a perfect addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy the comforting flavors of creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and tender chicken, and savor every bite!
Variations:
1. Vegetarian Version:
- Skip the Chicken and Bacon: Replace the chicken with extra broccoli, mushrooms, or your favorite vegetables. Substitute the bacon bits with a plant-based alternative or leave them out entirely.
- Add Extra Veggies: Include bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, spinach, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
2. Gluten-Free Option:
- Use Gluten-Free Pasta: Substitute regular penne pasta with gluten-free penne or another gluten-free pasta variety.
- Ensure Gluten-Free Ingredients: Check labels on bacon bits and cheese to ensure they are gluten-free.
3. Spicy Kick:
- Add Jalapeños or Hot Sauce: Incorporate sliced jalapeños into the cheese sauce or add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Spicy Cheese: Use a spicy shredded cheese blend, such as pepper jack, to enhance the dish’s spiciness.
4. Creamier Texture:
- Use Heavy Cream or Cream Cheese: Add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese to the cheese sauce for an even creamier texture.
- Double the Cheese: Mix in additional types of cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, for a richer, creamier pasta.
5. Mediterranean Twist:
- Incorporate Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sliced black olives for a Mediterranean flair.
- Use Feta Cheese: Swap out the shredded cheese with crumbled feta for a tangy, salty twist.
6. Low-Carb Version:
- Substitute Pasta with Zucchini Noodles or Cauliflower: Replace the penne pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or small cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative.
- Reduce Cheese: Use a smaller amount of cheese or choose a low-fat cheese option.
7. Italian Style:
- Add Italian Herbs: Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, such as oregano, basil, and thyme, for an Italian flavor profile.
- Use Marinara Sauce: Replace one can of Rotel with a cup of marinara sauce for a tomato-rich base.
8. Mexican Flair:
- Incorporate Taco Seasoning: Mix in a packet of taco seasoning with the cheese sauce for a Mexican-inspired twist.
- Top with Tortilla Strips: Garnish with crispy tortilla strips for added texture and flavor.
With these variations, you can customize your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli to suit different dietary preferences and flavor profiles. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option, a low-carb alternative, or a spicier kick, these adaptations will help you create a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and flavors to make this dish uniquely yours!
FAQs:
1. Can I use fresh chicken instead of precooked rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use fresh chicken. Simply cook the chicken thoroughly before adding it to the pasta. Grilled, baked, or sautéed chicken works well for this recipe.
2. What can I substitute for Velveeta cheese?
If you prefer not to use Velveeta, you can substitute it with an equal amount of cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese. Melt them together to achieve a similar creamy consistency.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. Assemble the pasta and sauce, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more spice, use hot Rotel tomatoes, add sliced jalapeños, or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce. You can also use a spicy cheese blend like pepper jack.
5. Is it possible to freeze this pasta dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Store the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
6. What other vegetables can I add to this recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. These will add more flavor and nutrition to the dish.
7. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with various pasta shapes such as rigatoni, farfalle, or fusilli. Use your favorite type of pasta or whatever you have on hand.
8. How do I reheat leftovers without drying out the pasta?
When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the pasta. This will help maintain its creamy texture. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
9. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great alternative. It provides a similar smoky flavor with less fat. Cook the turkey bacon until crispy before adding it to the pasta.
10. What can I serve with this pasta dish?
This pasta pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter side, try serving it with a simple cucumber and tomato salad.
By addressing these common questions, you can ensure your Cheesy Bacon Chicken Pasta with Broccoli turns out perfectly every time. Whether you’re making substitutions, planning ahead, or adding your own twist, these FAQs provide helpful tips to guide you through the process. Enjoy your delicious and customizable pasta dish!