Ingredients
Scale
Gathering the right ingredients is like preparing to weave a tapestry of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 ounces of penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 packet (1 ounce) of ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For those evenings when you’re short on a particular ingredient, feel free to substitute the penne with any pasta you have on hand or swap the cheddar with mozzarella for a different cheesy twist. Flexibility in the kitchen is key, just like how life often requires us to adapt and embrace the unexpected.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the process of creating this delightful dish, step by step:
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Lower the heat slightly and in the same skillet, whisk together the ranch seasoning mix, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Allow it to simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon into the sauce. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately, basking in the aroma and flavors that fill your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International