Indulge in the creamy and savory delight of this Chicken Bacon Broccoli Alfredo recipe, a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. With simple ingredients like tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh broccoli nestled in a luscious Alfredo sauce, this pasta dish marries comfort with gourmet flair. Perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests, this recipe showcases the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for any food enthusiast.
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Growing up, Sunday dinners were a cherished tradition in my family. My mother always made pasta nights feel like special occasions, and this recipe was the crown jewel. I remember the aromatic blend of garlic and creamy sauce filling our kitchen as we eagerly waited at the table. This particular dish not only brings back those cherished memories but also has become a new family favorite in my own household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a rich and savory dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. It combines the smokiness of the bacon with the creamy Alfredo sauce, all balanced out by the freshness of broccoli. It’s a perfect weeknight meal because it doesn’t require hours of preparation, yet it tastes like something you’d enjoy at an upscale restaurant. Plus, the leftovers taste just as delightful, if not better!
Ingredients Notes
To make this dish, you’ll need boneless chicken breasts, crispy bacon, fresh broccoli florets, fettuccine pasta, and classic Alfredo ingredients like cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. For those looking for substitutions, chicken thighs work just as well for a juicier result, and turkey bacon can be a healthier alternative. Ensure your broccoli is vibrant and firm for the best flavor and texture in the final dish.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and reserve a cup of pasta water to potentially use later for thinning the sauce if needed.
Step 2
In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, remove and drain on a paper towel. In the bacon drippings, add the chicken seasoned with salt and pepper, cooking until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 3
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant. Stir in fresh broccoli florets, cooking until they are tender but still vibrant in color.
Step 4
Pour in the cream, bringing to a simmer. Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 5
Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, mixing well to coat evenly. Add the crispy bacon back into the skillet. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve the preferred sauce texture.
Storage Options
Store any leftover alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover and microwave until hot, or warm over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain the sauce’s creaminess. This dish can also be frozen; ensure it’s tightly sealed and consume within a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian twist, swap out chicken for mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein. Add a spicy kick with a dash of red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. For a lighter take, substitute heavy cream with a mixture of Greek yogurt and skim milk.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile enough for a casual family dinner or a more sophisticated gathering. Serve it with a crisp Caesar Salad and warm garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of chilled Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, highlighting the dish’s creamy notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this recipe in advance? Yes, you can cook the components like the chicken, bacon, and sauce ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply combine all ingredients and heat thoroughly. This method is ideal for busy weeknights.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! Simply replace the fettuccine with your favorite gluten-free pasta. The other ingredients in the recipe are naturally gluten-free, making this swap very straightforward.
How do I prevent the sauce from separating? The key to a smooth, non-separating sauce is gentle heat and continuous stirring. Make sure not to let the sauce boil as you melt the cheese. If you see separation starting, swiftly remove it from the heat and whisk in a little extra cream.
Whether a seasoned chef or a home cook, this Chicken Bacon Broccoli Alfredo is an easy pathway to a pleasurable dining experience. Let this delightful dish take the center stage of your next meal, impressing your family and guests with every creamy, mouthwatering bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Creamy Lemon Basil Shrimp Pasta: A Delightful Twist!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces linguine
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
- 1 lemon lemon juice freshly squeezed
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup basil fresh, chopped
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 0.5 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook the linguine according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook while stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the basil and adjust seasonings to taste.
- Add linguine and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat with the sauce and heat through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and basil if desired.
