Steps
Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
In the same skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
Gradually whisk in the warm milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, chicken, and bacon to the cheese sauce. Toss until evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley, if desired.
Steps
Boil the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
In the same skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
Gradually whisk in the warm milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, chicken, and bacon to the cheese sauce. Toss until evenly coated. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or chopped parsley, if desired.
