One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests, look no further than this One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken Recipe! This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting and satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With its rich, creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and tender chicken, this recipe will become a new favorite in your household. Read on to learn how to make this mouthwatering meal and be sure to follow each step carefully to achieve the perfect dish!

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What is One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken?

One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines the savory taste of bacon with the richness of a creamy sauce, all made in one pan for easy cleanup. The dish features succulent chicken breasts that are seared to perfection and then simmered in a luscious cream sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and, of course, crispy bacon. The combination of textures and flavors creates a dish that is both indulgent and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for a hearty dinner.

Ingredients List for One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

To make this delectable dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Choose high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer dark meat.
• 6 slices of bacon: Bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor to the dish and provides a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: The heavy cream is essential for creating the rich, luxurious sauce that coats the chicken.
• ½ cup chicken broth: Chicken broth adds depth to the sauce and helps thin it out to the perfect consistency.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with its pungent aroma and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of dried herbs, including oregano, basil, and thyme, enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky note that complements the bacon and adds a pop of color to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Season the chicken and sauce to your preference.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For garnish and a burst of fresh flavor.

Substitutions and Variations

While this recipe is delicious as written, there are a few substitutions and variations you can try to customize it to your liking:

• Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving if you accidentally overcook them.
• Turkey Bacon: For a lighter version, substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon. It has a lower fat content but still delivers that smoky flavor.
• Half-and-Half: If you want a lighter sauce, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Keep in mind that the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
• Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for an extra layer of flavor and texture. They pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and bacon.
• Spinach: For a pop of color and added nutrition, stir in a handful of fresh spinach leaves at the end of cooking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking this One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken is a straightforward process that results in a restaurant-quality dish. Follow these steps to create the perfect meal:

1. Prepare the Bacon: Start by cooking the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the skillet, discarding the rest.
2. Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, sear the chicken breasts over medium-high heat. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This step adds tons of flavor to the sauce. Next, stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Combine Everything: Once the sauce has thickened slightly, return the chicken breasts to the skillet. Crumble the cooked bacon over the top, then spoon some of the sauce over the chicken. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
5. Garnish and Serve: Finally, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh, vibrant garnish. Serve the creamy bacon chicken straight from the skillet to keep the cleanup minimal.

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

This section provides a more detailed breakdown of each step to ensure you get perfect results every time:

1. Frying the Bacon: Start with a cold skillet to ensure the bacon cooks evenly. Place the bacon slices in the skillet and turn the heat to medium. As the bacon cooks, it will render its fat, turning crispy. Flip the bacon halfway through to ensure both sides cook evenly. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease.
2. Searing the Chicken: Properly searing the chicken is key to locking in flavor and moisture. Season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat the reserved bacon grease in the skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear without moving them for 4-5 minutes. This creates a golden-brown crust. Flip the chicken and sear the other side. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F before you remove it from the skillet.
3. Building the Sauce: The sauce comes together quickly, so have all your ingredients ready. After removing the chicken, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Garlic burns easily, so keep an eye on it and stir constantly. Once the garlic is fragrant, pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up the browned bits from the skillet. This deglazing process ensures that all the flavors from the chicken and bacon are incorporated into the sauce. Add the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, stirring to combine.
4. Simmering to Perfection: Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to thicken. The cream should reduce slightly, creating a rich, velvety sauce. Return the chicken to the skillet and crumble the bacon over the top. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Allow the chicken to simmer in the sauce for an additional 5 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together and the chicken to become even more tender.
5. Finishing Touches: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve the chicken directly from the skillet to keep it warm and inviting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even a simple recipe like this one can go wrong if you’re not careful. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Overcrowding the Pan: If your skillet is too small, the chicken won’t sear properly. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly, and burned garlic can make the sauce bitter. Keep an eye on the garlic, and as soon as it’s fragrant, proceed with adding the broth and cream.
• Undercooking the Chicken: It’s crucial to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
• Too Thick or Too Thin Sauce: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you serve and present this dish can elevate it from home-cooked comfort food to a gourmet experience. Here’s how:

• Family-Style Serving: Serve the chicken directly from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal. Place the skillet in the center of the table and let everyone help themselves.
• Garnishes: Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
• Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad. The cream sauce is perfect for drizzling over potatoes or soaking up with crusty bread.

How to Serve One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

When serving One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken, consider the following options:

• Over Pasta: Serve the chicken over a bed of fettuccine or linguine, letting the creamy sauce coat the pasta for a decadent meal.
• With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, making for a hearty and comforting dish.
• With a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the dish with a fresh, crisp side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.

Presentation Ideas for One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

Elevate the presentation of this dish with these simple ideas:

• Cast Iron Skillet: Serve the chicken in a cast iron skillet for a rustic, homey feel.
• White Plates: Use white plates to make the golden-brown chicken and vibrant green parsley stand out.
• Drizzle of Sauce: When plating, drizzle extra sauce over the chicken and around the plate for a professional touch.

One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken Recipe Tips

To make sure your One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Prep Ingredients First: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This will make the process smoother and prevent any mistakes.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, herbs, and high-quality chicken will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your dish.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After searing the chicken, let it rest on a plate while you make the sauce. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken more tender.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken ahead of time. Simply reheat it in the skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

2. Can I freeze this dish?

While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

3. Can I use a different type of cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free version. However, the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

4. What can I use instead of bacon?

If you don’t eat bacon, you can use pancetta, turkey bacon, or even omit it altogether. Just add a bit of butter or oil to the pan for cooking the chicken.

5. How can I make this dish healthier?

For a healthier version, use turkey bacon, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, and serve the dish with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad instead of pasta or potatoes.

Conclusion

This One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken recipe is a delightful combination of rich flavors and textures, perfect for a comforting dinner that’s both easy to make and sure to impress. With its crispy bacon, tender chicken, and creamy sauce, it’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to the table. By following the detailed instructions and tips provided, you’ll be able to create a meal that’s both delicious and beautifully presented. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and get cooking today!

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