Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta

Prep Steps

• 12 oz bacon {do:chop}
• 1 yellow onion {do:dice}
• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-size strips {do:slice}
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese {do:shred}

The Bacon & Onions

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, fry until about three-quarters crisp...

• 12 oz bacon, chopped

Add and cook until translucent...

• 1 yellow onion, diced

Lift everything out with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.

Sear the Chicken

Toss together, then sear in the bacon fat until browned on all sides...

• 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into bite-size strips
• 1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix, half of a 1 oz packet

Set the chicken aside with the bacon and onions.

Simmer the Pasta

In the same skillet, add...

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 lb bow tie pasta
• 1 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix, the rest of the packet

Bring to a simmer, then cover tightly, lower the heat and cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Make it Creamy

Stir in until melted and smooth...

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Return the chicken, bacon and onions to the pan and stir until hot and velvety.

Note: Sauce a little soupy? Stir 1 tbsp cornstarch into 1 tbsp cold water and simmer it in for a minute.

Serve warm with a side of broccoli.