BBQ Chicken & Bacon Pasta

• 2 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions
• 1/2 tsp minced garlic
• 2 cups chicken broth - I used smoked chicken broth
• 1 (14 oz.) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 lb. dry pasta - I used penne
• 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese - I used a combination of cheddar and jack cheeses

In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until it is browned. Halfway through cooking, add the chicken and continue cooking until it is all cooked, about 5 minutes. Add the green onion and garlic; cook an additional minute.

Add the chicken broth, tomatoes, milk, pepper flakes, salt, and pasta and bring back to a boil.

Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook 5 minutes. Stir, then replace cover and cook another 5 minutes. Stir and continue cooking 4-5 minutes uncovered, until the noodles are cooked.

Stir in the barbecue sauce and cheese; cook 1-2 minutes more until heated through.

• Yields: 6-8 servings
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes