BACON RANCH CHICKEN WITH PARMESAN PENNE?

Bacon Ranch Chicken with Parmesan Penne? image

Provided by raymond spencer @clownman70360

Number Of Ingredients 15

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8 ounce(s) penne pasta,uncooked
2 tablespoon(s) olive oil,divided
1 cup(s) grated parmesan cheese
1 cup(s) shredded parmesan cheese
4 boneless,skinless chicken breasts,cut into strips
1 tablespoon(s) sea salt/black pepper
4 tablespoon(s) ranch dressing mix,divided
1 cup(s) panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoon(s) margarine,divided
1 medium vidalia sweet onion,peeled and chopped
1 clove(s) garlic,minced
1 cup(s) half and half
1 package(s) (8 ounces) cream cheese,softened
16 ounce(s) cooked thick cut bacon,chopped and divided
2 cup(s) shredded pizza cheese blend

Steps:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.Coat a 13 x 9'' baking dish with cooking spray.
Cook penne pasta according to package directions;drain.
Transfer to a large bowl,add 1 tablespoon olive oil,grated and shredded parmesan cheese;toss it well.Pour into a baking dish.
In a large ziplock bag,combine fresh chicken strips,sea salt/black pepper,2 tablespoons ranch dressing mix and 1 cup panko bread crumbs;shake it well to coat.
Heat 1 tablespoon margarine and remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add chicken strip mixture,cook and saute for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown.Remove from heat and set aside.
Heat remaining margarine in medium saucepan over medium-low heat.Add chopped onion and minced garlic,saute for 4 minutes or until tender.
Reduced to low heat,combine half and half,cream cheese and remaining ranch dressing mix;whisk well.
Let it simmer for 6 minutes.After that,add chicken strip mixture and 2/3 of chopped bacon,stir together for 3 minutes until combined.
Pour over penne pasta mixture in the baking dish.Sprinkle with remaining chopped bacon.Top with pizza cheese blend.
Bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese are melted.Cool completely.