One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken Recipe

Are you in the mood for a rich and comforting dish that’s easy to make but tastes like a gourmet meal? Look no further! This One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken recipe is the perfect solution for a delicious dinner with minimal cleanup. With crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a luscious creamy sauce, this dish is bound to become a family favorite. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know to make this mouthwatering meal.

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What Is One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken?

One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken is a savory, indulgent dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked in a rich, creamy sauce infused with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon. The sauce, made with heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, perfectly complements the chicken, creating a meal that’s both comforting and full of flavor. This dish is prepared in just one pan, making it not only delicious but also incredibly convenient. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is all about maximum flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients List for One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

Before you get started, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish, providing a lean and tender protein base.
• 6 slices of bacon: Adds a smoky, crispy element to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to cook the chicken and bacon.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the sauce with a deep, aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Helps create the base of the creamy sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the sauce a savory, cheesy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the creamy sauce.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: For seasoning and a touch of spice.
• Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

Don’t have all the ingredients or want to try something different? Here are some substitutions and variations to customize your One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken:

• Chicken Thighs: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier and more flavorful result. Adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Turkey Bacon: For a lighter option, substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon.
• Half-and-Half: If you’re looking to cut down on calories, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
• Cheddar Cheese: Swap out Parmesan for cheddar or another favorite cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the sauce just before serving for extra nutrients and color.
• Mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms along with the garlic for an earthy addition to the sauce.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps to create the perfect One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken:

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pan and discard the rest.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. In the same pan with the reserved bacon fat, add the olive oil and heat over medium-high heat.
3. Sear the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the hot pan and sear for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic: In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
5. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds extra flavor to the sauce.
6. Make the Cream Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
7. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken breasts and crumbled bacon to the pan, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and for the chicken to reheat.
8. Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

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

Cooking One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken is simple, but mastering the details can take your dish from good to great. Here’s a more detailed guide to ensure success:

1. Choosing the Right Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe, but you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Ensure the chicken breasts are of even thickness for consistent cooking.
2. Perfectly Crisp Bacon: Cooking the bacon first allows you to use the rendered fat to cook the chicken, adding extra flavor. Make sure the bacon is crispy but not burnt, as overcooked bacon can become bitter.
3. Golden Brown Sear: Searing the chicken locks in the juices and creates a flavorful crust. Don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear.
4. Garlic Control: Garlic can quickly go from golden to burnt, which can ruin the flavor of the dish. Keep a close eye on it and sauté just until fragrant.
5. Sauce Consistency: The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more chicken broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Skipping the Sear: Searing the chicken is crucial for flavor and texture. Don’t skip this step, even if you’re in a hurry.
• Overcooking the Chicken: Chicken breasts can dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and avoid overcooking.
• Burning the Garlic: Burnt garlic can give the dish an unpleasant bitter taste. Keep the heat at medium and sauté just until fragrant.
• Not Deglazing the Pan: Deglazing the pan with chicken broth helps lift the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom, which enhances the sauce.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation can make your dish look as amazing as it tastes. Here are some tips for serving and presenting your One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken:

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil can add a burst of color and freshness to the rich dish.
• Serve Over Pasta or Rice: The creamy sauce is perfect for spooning over a bed of pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice, making it a complete meal.
• Pair with Vegetables: Serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables, such as green beans, asparagus, or broccoli, for a balanced meal.

How to Serve One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

This versatile dish can be served in several delicious ways:

• With Pasta: Serve the chicken and sauce over fettuccine or penne for a comforting pasta dish.
• Over Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with fluffy mashed potatoes.
• With Crusty Bread: A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.

Presentation Ideas for One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

Impress your guests with these simple presentation ideas:

• Family-Style Platter: Serve the chicken on a large platter with the sauce poured over the top, garnished with parsley and crumbled bacon.
• Individual Plates: Plate each chicken breast with a generous spoonful of sauce and garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and herbs.
• In a Bowl: For a more casual presentation, serve the chicken in shallow bowls over pasta or rice, with the sauce drizzled over the top.

One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken Recipe Tips

For the best results, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, Parmesan, and herbs will give the sauce the best flavor.
• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer longer or add more Parmesan.
• Crisp the Bacon: Cook the bacon until it’s crispy but not burnt, as it will add both texture and flavor to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. They may need a slightly longer cooking time.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stove. The sauce may thicken upon standing, so you might need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating.

Q: How long will leftovers keep?

A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Q: Can I freeze One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken?

A: While you can freeze it, the sauce may separate when thawed due to the cream. If freezing, it’s best to freeze the chicken and bacon separately from the sauce and make the sauce fresh when reheating.

Conclusion

There you have it—a comprehensive guide to making One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken, a dish that combines the smoky goodness of bacon with the rich, comforting flavors of a creamy sauce. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Try it out today, and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent, all made in one pan!

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