Cooking Steps

• Cook the bacon in a large skillet over low heat. Set aside and pour bacon drippings into a small bowl. Wipe the skillet clean and 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 bacon drippings in the skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. Set aside and let it rest for 5 minutes before cutting into cubes.
• Boil salted water and cook the pasta until finished. Drain and prepare the sauce in the meantime.
• Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 1 minute, then add flour and stir for 1 more minute.
• Heat the half and half in the microwave for 40 seconds, then add it to the skillet in splashes while stirring. Bring to a bubble and reduce heat to low.
• Stir in the ranch seasoning and gradually add the cheese until combined.
• Add the pasta to the skillet and mix with the sauce. Add chicken and garnish with bacon. Serve hot!