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This baked pasta dish combines tender chicken breast, smoky bacon, creamy cheeses, and fresh broccoli for a hearty comforting dinner. The sauce is rich and silky thanks to sour cream and cream, coating every piece of macaroni perfectly. Baked in one skillet until golden, this meal is ideal for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.
I often prepare this for friends after a long day and it always brings smiles and empty plates
Ingredients
- Thick meaty bacon: brings smoky flavor and savory bites Choose bacon with a higher meat-to-fat ratio for best texture
- Chicken breast: sliced into strips for tender pieces Select fresh chicken and trim excess fat
- Macaroni: soaks up sauce perfectly Use high-quality durum wheat pasta
- Cheddar cheese: adds creamy sharpness Buy block cheese and shred for best melting results
- Pepper Jack cheese: provides a spicy kick Freshly shredded melts beautifully
- Parmesan cheese: creates a savory backdrop Use real parmesan for strongest flavor
- Sour cream: contributes creamy tang Pick full-fat for richness
- Butter: adds flavor and silky finish Unsalted lets you control salt
- Cream or milk: keeps sauce light and smooth Whole milk or heavy cream both work
- Salt and black pepper: enhance flavors Use coarse kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
- Minced garlic: builds depth of flavor Fresh garlic is essential
- Broccoli: brightens dish and adds crunch Cut into bite-sized pieces
- Dry oregano: lifts the flavor profile Use fresh bottle for strongest taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- Cook bacon slices in a large skillet over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes until crisp Turning halfway ensures even browning Remove bacon and drain on paper towel Leave a couple of spoonfuls of bacon fat in the skillet
- Boil the Pasta:
- Bring a pot of salted water to boil Add macaroni and cook until just barely al dente Drain and set aside
- Brown the Chicken and Aromatics:
- Add chicken strips and minced garlic to skillet Sprinkle with oregano Cook over medium-low heat for 5 minutes until lightly golden Turn halfway Add broccoli cover and steam for 5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender
- Build the Creamy Pasta Base:
- Combine drained macaroni with butter half of cheddar and pepper Jack cheeses all parmesan sour cream and milk Stir over low heat for 5 minutes allowing cheese to melt and sauce to become creamy
- Layer the Bake:
- Place chicken and broccoli in skillet Crumble half of cooked bacon on top Pour creamy macaroni mixture evenly over chicken and broccoli
- Finish and Bake:
- Sprinkle remaining cheddar and pepper Jack cheeses and remaining bacon Bake in 350 degree oven for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbling and golden Let cool a few minutes before serving so sauce thickens
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I love the melty pepper Jack cheese as it adds a subtle spice My family jokes this is the only way my husband eats broccoli without complaint
Storage Tips
Refrigerate covered up to three days Reheat in oven for crisp top or microwave individual portions Adding a splash of milk restores creaminess Freeze unbaked assembled dish overnight then bake as usual
Ingredient Substitutions
Any small pasta shape like penne or rotini works well Omit pepper Jack and use all cheddar adding a pinch of red pepper flakes Cauliflower florets can replace broccoli or add extra vegetables like mushrooms Use half sour cream and extra milk for lighter sauce
Serving Suggestions
Pair with fresh green salad and crusty garlic bread Ideal for buffet or potluck since it stays creamy for long periods Extra steamed broccoli or sautéed greens can add color and nutrition
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Cultural Context
This type of pasta bake is a beloved American family tradition blending European comfort food flavors It is ideal for weeknight dinners and crowd-pleasing meals
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or rigatoni all work well and hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Cook the chicken just until no longer pink and avoid overbaking; the creamy sauce also helps keep it moist.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
Yes, assemble everything in advance and bake right before serving. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- → What cheese alternatives can I use?
Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even Swiss make great substitutes depending on your flavor preference.
- → Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Definitely! Try adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- → How long does this keep in the refrigerator?
The baked pasta will keep covered in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave.