One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken Recipe

If you're searching for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, look no further than this One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken Recipe. Packed with savory flavors, tender chicken, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish will quickly become a household favorite. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know to make this mouthwatering recipe, from the ingredients you’ll need to step-by-step instructions, substitutions, variations, and more. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to impress your family or guests with a delectable meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.

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What is One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken?

One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken breasts with crispy bacon, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. This recipe is not only packed with flavor, but it also requires minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in one pan. The creaminess of the sauce perfectly complements the smoky bacon and juicy chicken, creating a satisfying and comforting meal that’s sure to please any crowd.

Ingredients List for One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

Before you start cooking, gather all the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These should be pounded to an even thickness for consistent cooking.
• 6 slices of bacon: Cut into bite-sized pieces. The bacon adds a smoky flavor and a satisfying crunch.
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil: Used to sear the chicken and start cooking the bacon.
• 1 medium onion: Finely chopped. The onion adds a sweet and savory base to the sauce.
• 3 cloves of garlic: Minced. Garlic enhances the flavor with its aromatic intensity.
• 1 cup of heavy cream: This is the base of the creamy sauce, adding richness to the dish.
• ½ cup of chicken broth: Helps to thin out the sauce while adding depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick to balance the creaminess.
• ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a nutty, salty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: Chopped, to add a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some substitution and variation ideas:

• Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts: If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute chicken thighs for breasts. Chicken thighs are juicier and have a richer flavor, but they may take slightly longer to cook.
• Turkey Bacon for a Healthier Option: If you’re looking to reduce the fat content, turkey bacon can be used in place of regular bacon. Keep in mind that it will have a slightly different texture and flavor.
• Non-Dairy Cream: For a dairy-free version, you can use coconut cream or almond milk. Coconut cream will give the dish a slight coconut flavor, which pairs surprisingly well with the other ingredients.
• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add some vegetables to the dish for added nutrition. Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes work particularly well in this recipe.
• Herbs and Spices: Customize the flavor by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil. A pinch of red pepper flakes can also be added for a bit of heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! Follow these detailed instructions to create your One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken.

1. Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This ensures that your chicken is flavorful from the inside out.

2. Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bacon pieces and cook until they are crispy and browned. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.

3. Sear the Chicken

In the same skillet, add the seasoned chicken breasts to the bacon fat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage, as it will finish cooking in the sauce. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

4. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.

5. Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These bits are full of flavor and will enhance the sauce. Add the Dijon mustard and stir to combine. Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to cook until the sauce has thickened slightly.

6. Combine and Simmer

Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, along with any juices that have accumulated on the plate. Add the cooked bacon pieces back into the pan as well. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened.

7. Garnish and Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the chicken directly from the skillet, spooning the creamy bacon sauce over the top.

How to Cook One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken is straightforward, but a few tips can help you achieve the best results:

1. Evenly Pound the Chicken: Ensuring the chicken breasts are of even thickness helps them cook uniformly, avoiding dry or undercooked spots.
2. Don’t Rush the Searing: When searing the chicken, allow it to get a good golden crust. This not only locks in the juices but also adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
3. Simmer Slowly: When simmering the chicken in the sauce, don’t rush the process. Allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken gradually.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a recipe as simple as this, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the Pan: Cooking too many pieces of chicken at once can cause them to steam rather than sear. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it while sautéing. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to the dish.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serving and Presentation Tips

How you present your One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken can elevate the dining experience. Here’s how to serve and present this dish beautifully:

How to Serve One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, making it versatile for any occasion. Consider serving it with:

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce complements the smooth texture of mashed potatoes.
• Rice: Steamed rice absorbs the rich sauce perfectly.
• Pasta: Serve the chicken over fettuccine or penne for a hearty, satisfying meal.
• Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or broccoli make a great side dish, balancing out the richness of the chicken.

Presentation Ideas for One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

For a restaurant-quality presentation:

• Serve in the Skillet: For a rustic and cozy feel, bring the skillet to the table and serve directly from it.
• Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a fresh, vibrant touch to the dish.
• Plating Individually: If serving to guests, plate each chicken breast individually, spooning sauce over the top and adding sides neatly arranged on the plate.

One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken Recipe Tips

To ensure your One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Preheat the Pan: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the bacon. This helps the bacon cook evenly and become crispy.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs will give the best flavor. Avoid using pre-minced garlic or dried onions if possible.
• Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If your sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer to reduce and thicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken ahead of time. Prepare the dish as instructed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

Q: Can I freeze One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken?
A: While you can freeze this dish, the

texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating due to the cream. If you plan to freeze it, consider using coconut cream instead of dairy cream, as it tends to freeze better.

Q: What can I do with leftovers?
A: Leftover One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It makes a great filling for sandwiches, wraps, or can be diced and added to a salad.

Q: How can I make this dish lighter?
A: To lighten this dish, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and opt for turkey bacon. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or omit it entirely.

Q: What type of skillet should I use?
A: A cast-iron skillet works wonderfully for this recipe because it retains heat well and creates a great sear on the chicken. However, any heavy-bottomed skillet will do.

Conclusion

One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken is a recipe that combines simplicity with gourmet flavors. Whether you're cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a meal for guests, this dish is sure to impress. With its tender chicken, crispy bacon, and luscious creamy sauce, it's a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it out tonight and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal with minimal cleanup!

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