Chicken Ranch Pasta Dinner

I've been pulling out some of the 'old' recipes lately and cooking them again.  You know how after you've cooked something for a while - even though you love it - you stop cooking it and try new things.  I'm going to share a couple of our family 'classics'.  This one didn't really come on the scene until after the girls went away to school, but hubby and I have sure enjoyed it over the years!

Chicken Ranch Pasta Dinner

2 1/2 c. uncooked penne or medium tube pasta  
6-8 TBS butter

1 envelope Ranch salad dressing mix                 
2 c. frozen peas & carrots, thawed

3 c. cubed, cooked chicken or turkey

Cook pasta according to package directions.  Meanwhile, in a large skillet melt the butter.  Sprinkle the dry salad dressing mix over the butter and beat until smooth; heat through.  Slowly add peas and carrots and mix well, stirring constantly.  Cook and stir for 2-3 minutes, making sure the vegetables are heated through.  Drain pasta and add to the mixture in the skillet...toss well.  Stir in meat and heat through.  Serve hot.    

Serves 4.