Cooking Steps

• Cook the bacon in a large skillet over low heat. Set aside and pour bacon drippings into a small bowl. Roughly chop the bacon once cooled.
• Cut the chicken breasts into thinner slices, pat dry, and season with salt/pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
• Heat 2 Tbsp. bacon drippings in the skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Set aside and let rest for 5 minutes, then cube.
• Boil salted water and cook the pasta. Drain when finished.
• Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 1 minute, add flour, and stir continuously for 1 minute.
• Temper the half and half by heating it in the microwave for 40 seconds, then add it to the skillet in splashes while stirring. Bring to a gentle bubble and reduce heat to low.
• Add the ranch seasoning and stir to combine. Gradually stir in the cheese until melted.
• Add the pasta and combine with the sauce, then stir in the chicken. Garnish with bacon or stir it into the sauce before serving.