Ingredients
For the Pasta & Protein:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 (10 oz) can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies, drained
For Garnish:
- 3 green onions, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season Chicken: Pat chicken dry and toss with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Cook Bacon & Chicken: In a large skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon. Add olive oil to bacon drippings. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken.
- Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Sprinkle flour over butter and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
- Build the Sauce: Gradually whisk in warm milk and chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Cheese & Tomatoes: Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in Monterey Jack and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Stir in Italian seasoning and drained Rotel tomatoes.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and most of the bacon to the sauce. Toss gently to coat and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with remaining bacon, green onions, and parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For a Smooth Sauce: Warm the milk before adding and shred your own cheese from a block for best melting.
- Spice Level: Use mild Rotel for less heat, or hot Rotel for more spice.
- Make Ahead: The sauce can be made 1-2 days ahead. Reheat gently before combining with freshly cooked pasta and chicken.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Simmering
- Cuisine: American
