Bacon-Swiss Penne

By AnneS

Ingredients

• Topping:
• 12 oz. uncooked penne pasta
• 13 bacon strips
• 1 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1" cubes
• 3 Tablespoons butter
• 6 green onions, chopped
• 3 Tablespoons flour
• 4 cups milk
• 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese
• 1 1/2 cups frozen peas, thawed
• 3/4 teaspoon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 3/4 cup dry bread crumbs
• 2 Tablespoons butter, melted

Preparation

Step 1

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.

2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook bacon in bathes over medium heat until crisp. Remove to paper towels, drain, reserving 4 teaspoons drippings. Crumble bacon and set aside.

3. Saute chicken in butter and drippings until no longer pink. Add onions; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in flour until blended; gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir 2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in cheeses, peas, pepper, thyme and bacon.

4. Drain penne; add to chicken mixture and toss to coat. Transfer to a greased 9 x 13" baking dish. In a small bowl, combine bread crumbs and butter; sprinkle over top. Bake, uncovered, at 350 degrees for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.