Chicken Almost Carbonara

1. Place bacon in a large skillet and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until evenly browned, about 10 minutes. Drain bacon slices on paper towels and crumble when cool enough to handle.

2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 11 minutes. Drain and transfer to a large bowl.

3. At the same time, heat olive oil and butter in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat until butter is melted and oil is hot. Add onion and cook, stirring often, until tender, 3 to 5 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring often, until soft, 3 to 5 minutes. Add garlic; cook and stir until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper and evenly distribute the contents in the skillet.

4. Stir in wine and bring to a boil, about 3 minutes. Pour in 2 cups chicken stock, add cooked chicken and peas, and bring to a boil.

5. While mixture is coming to a boil, place flour in a pint jar with a lid. Slowly add remaining chicken stock to the jar, stirring briskly to break up any lumps. Place the lid on the jar and shake until well blended. Slowly pour flour-stock mixture into the boiling mixture and stir to prevent lumps. Return to a boil and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened, about 5 minutes.

6. Remove from the heat and stir in 1 cup Parmesan cheese until melted. Pour the hot sauce onto the pasta, add parsley and crumbled bacon, and stir to combine. Serve in individual bowls with additional Parmesan, if desired.

Cook's Note:

Any type of pasta you have on hand will be fine.