Indulge in the irresistible combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a velvety cream sauce with this Creamy Bacon Chicken Delight. This dish offers rich, savory flavors that are sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or a cozy night in, this recipe is quick, easy, and full of flavor. Follow the simple steps below to create this delicious meal.
Ingredients
6 strips of bacon, cut into small pieces
2 large chicken breasts, halved lengthwise
Flour, for dredging
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Pepper, to taste
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup heavy or whipping cream
Preparation
- Cook the Bacon: Begin by cutting the bacon into small pieces (using kitchen shears can make this task quick and easy). Place the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook until crispy, about 10 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the bacon cooks, prepare the chicken. Slice the chicken breasts lengthwise to create four smaller cutlets. Season the chicken with garlic powder and pepper, then dredge the cutlets in flour until evenly coated.
- Brown the Chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet with the reserved bacon fat. Cook over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown. If the pan starts to splatter, reduce the heat slightly. Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
- Create the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, lemon juice, and butter. Let the mixture bubble and reduce by half, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Be sure to scrape up the browned bits at the bottom of the pan, as these add incredible flavor to the sauce.
- Add the Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and let it simmer until it begins to bubble gently. Add the browned chicken and crispy bacon back into the skillet and cook everything together for another 5 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the sauce to thicken.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once the chicken is cooked and the sauce has reduced to your desired consistency, your Creamy Bacon Chicken Delight is ready to serve. Pair with mashed potatoes, pasta, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
Add Vegetables: For a more balanced meal, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or peas to the sauce. Simply sauté them after browning the chicken and before adding the broth and cream.
Cheesy Twist: Want to make it extra indulgent? Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese when you add the cream for a cheesy, creamy sauce.
Herb Boost: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley when you add the broth. This will give the dish a fresh, fragrant finish.
Lighter Version: For a lighter version of the dish, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. It will result in a slightly thinner sauce but still delicious.
How to Store
Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from separating.
Freezing: You can also freeze this dish for up to 2 months. Place the chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly over the stove.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and offer a juicier, more flavorful bite. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the thighs are cooked through.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, gently reheat the chicken and sauce on the stove until warmed through.
- What can I serve with Creamy Bacon Chicken Delight? This dish pairs well with a variety of sides like mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or roasted vegetables. The rich sauce complements starchy sides perfectly, making it a great choice for a hearty meal.
- Can I substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy alternative? Yes, you can use coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. Keep in mind, though, that this may slightly change the flavor of the dish.
With its savory, creamy sauce and crispy bacon, this Creamy Bacon Chicken Delight is a fantastic recipe to add to your dinner rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress!