Penne Pasta with Chicken, Bacon, and Summer Vegetables

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Penne Pasta with Chicken, Bacon, and Summer Vegetables.

1. Step 1

   Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding the diced bacon.

2. Step 2

   Cook it, turning occasionally, until it becomes crispy and golden, which should take about 10 minutes.

3. Step 3

   Once done, drain the bacon on paper towels to absorb excess grease, but don’t forget to reserve about 2 tablespoons of that delicious bacon fat in the skillet for extra flavor.

4. Step 4

   Next, toss in the diced onion and sauté it over medium heat until it turns a lovely golden color, which will take around 5 to 10 minutes.

5. Step 5

   Now, it’s time to add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic.

6. Step 6

   Cook this mixture until the mushrooms are nicely browned, which should take another 10 minutes or so.

7. Step 7

   After that, stir in the grilled chicken and zucchini, cooking until the zucchini is tender yet still has a bit of a bite, about 5 to 10 minutes.

8. Step 8

   Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from the heat and gently fold in the halved grape tomatoes, letting them warm through for about 5 minutes.

9. Step 9

   While that’s happening, bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.

10. Step 10

    Add the penne pasta and cook it, stirring occasionally, until it reaches that perfect al dente texture, which should take about 11 minutes.

11. Step 11

    Once the pasta is ready, drain it and transfer it to a large serving bowl.

12. Step 12

    Now, combine the vibrant vegetable mixture with the drained pasta, and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.

13. Step 13

    Finally, season it all with freshly ground black pepper to taste.

14. Step 14

    Enjoy this delightful dish that brings together crispy bacon, tender veggies, and cheesy goodness in every bite!.