Pasta with Chicken, Bacon and Cabbage

Step 1: Chicken ... I always have some cooked chicken in my fridge or freezer. But, you can use any method you want to prepare the chicken. You can poach, roast, or bake your chicken; or, use a store bough rotisserie. If it is frozen or in the fridge; make sure to take it to take the chill off. You want it close to room temperature.

Step 2: Bacon ... Add the bacon to a large saute pan, medium heat; and, saute until crisp. If you render (saute), the bacon slowly, you will not need to any any additional oil. Once the bacon is cooked and crisp (approx 5 minutes), transfer to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain, using a slotted spoon. Do not get rid of the drippings.

Step 3: Onions and Cabbage ... Add the onions to the bacon drippings, and saute 3-5 minutes until tender; then, add the garlic and cabbage, and a good pinch of both salt and pepper. Toss, cover, and cook, about 10 minutes until tender. I don't like it TOO soft; a little crunch is OK in my book.

Step 4: Pasta ... As the cabbage cooks, prepare the pasta according to package directions in plenty of salted water. As I said, I love whole wheat pasta; it gives the dish a nice rich taste - but, use your favorite. Once the pasta is done, drain, and return to the pot off the heat.

Step 5: Finish ... Add the chicken to the cabbage mix, and toss to coat. The chicken is already cooked, you are simply heating it through. Add a little chicken broth or water and the pasta to the cabbage mix, and stir to combine. Add the bacon, sage; and, season again with salt and pepper. Toss and transfer to a serving bowl or platter. The chicken broth will make a light sauce for the pasta.

Step 6: Serve and ENJOY! ... Serve family style along side a fresh tomato salad - my favorite way to enjoy this easy dinner.