One Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken Recipe

Craving a quick and comforting meal that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than this One-Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken recipe! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds. Bacon, chicken, and a luscious creamy sauce come together in one pan to create a dish that is as satisfying as it is easy to make. So, grab your skillet, and let's dive into this mouthwatering recipe that you’ll want to add to your weeknight rotation.

this Recipe

What is One-Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken?

One-Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken is a simple yet indulgent dish where succulent chicken breasts are cooked to golden perfection and then smothered in a rich, creamy sauce loaded with crispy bacon. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity—everything is cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze and ensuring that all the flavors meld together beautifully.

Ingredients List for One-Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

For the Chicken:

• 6 slices of bacon: The star ingredient, adding smoky richness and fat to the dish. Use regular bacon rather than turkey bacon for the best flavor and texture.
• 2 chicken breasts: These will be halved horizontally to create four fillets. Larger chicken breasts are ideal as they are easier to slice and cook evenly.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Used for dredging the chicken, which helps create a crispy exterior and thickens the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the chicken.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth to the dish.
• 1 tablespoon butter: Combined with bacon fat to cook the chicken to golden perfection.

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons butter: Used to sauté the onions and form the base of the sauce.
• 1 onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and a subtle crunch to the sauce.
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Provides a hint of earthiness and complexity to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons dry sherry (optional): Adds depth and a slight sweetness to the sauce. Can be substituted with white wine or left out entirely if you prefer.
• ¾ cup chicken broth or stock: Provides the liquid base for the sauce, adding savory depth.
• 1¼ cups heavy cream: Creates the creamy, rich texture that makes this dish so indulgent.
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a slight tang and complexity to the sauce.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: To season the sauce, bringing out all the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of warmth and balances the richness of the sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand or want to tweak the recipe to suit your preferences, here are some easy substitutions and variations:

• Bacon: While regular bacon is preferred for its fat content and flavor, you can use pancetta or even prosciutto for a different twist. Just note that these alternatives may not render as much fat, so you might need to add extra butter or oil.
• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts. They have a slightly higher fat content, making them even juicier. Just increase the cooking time to 15-20 minutes.
• Flour: For a gluten-free option, use almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Sherry: If you don't consume alcohol, simply omit the sherry, or replace it with a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for acidity.
• Thyme: Fresh thyme can be used in place of dried, or you can substitute it with rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Mustard: Feel free to experiment with different types of mustard, such as whole-grain mustard for added texture or spicy brown mustard for extra heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking One-Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken is straightforward, but following these steps will ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

• Begin by chopping the bacon into small, bite-sized pieces. This will allow it to cook evenly and become crispy.
• Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and has rendered its fat.
• Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the bacon fat behind. Set the bacon aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• While the bacon is cooking, pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This will prevent the chicken from sliding around while you’re slicing it.
• Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each breast horizontally to create two even fillets. You should end up with four thin fillets.
• If the fillets are uneven in thickness, use a meat mallet or a heavy pan to pound the thicker parts to an even thickness. This ensures they cook evenly.
• In a shallow dish, combine the flour with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken fillet in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Reserve the remaining flour for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet with the bacon fat. Once melted, add the floured chicken fillets to the pan.
• Cook the chicken for about 4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Tent with foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce.

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

Step 4: Make the Sauce

• Reduce the heat to low. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion.
• Cook the onion for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it is softened but not browned. This will add sweetness and a delicate flavor to the sauce.
• Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the reserved flour over the onions and stir to coat. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce later.
• Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and dry sherry (if using), scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. These bits are packed with flavor and will enrich the sauce.
• Add ¾ of the crispy bacon back to the pan along with the dried thyme. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
• Pour in the heavy cream, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients and let the sauce simmer for a minute or two until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

• Return the chicken fillets and any accumulated juices back into the skillet. Spoon some of the sauce over the chicken to ensure it’s well-coated.
• Simmer everything together for another 4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken further.
• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or even a touch more mustard for extra tang.

Step 6: Serve

• Once the sauce has thickened to your liking and the chicken is heated through, sprinkle the remaining crispy bacon over the top.
• Serve the chicken fillets with a generous spoonful of the creamy bacon sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Chicken Drying Step: Always dry your chicken breasts before slicing and dredging them. This helps the flour adhere better and prevents the chicken from sliding around while you’re slicing.
• Not Slicing Chicken Evenly: Uneven chicken fillets can result in uneven cooking. Take your time when slicing the chicken breasts to ensure they’re as uniform as possible.
• Overcrowding the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure there is enough space between each fillet. Overcrowding the pan can cause the chicken to steam rather than sear, leading to a less crispy exterior.
• Rushing the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently so that it thickens properly. If the heat is too high, the cream may curdle.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Presentation is key to making your dish look as good as it tastes. Here are some tips to elevate your One-Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken:

How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

• Over Pasta or Rice: Serve the chicken over a bed of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up the creamy sauce.
• With Vegetables: Pair the dish with steamed vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or broccoli for a complete meal.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation Ideas for One-Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken

• Use a White Plate: The creamy sauce and golden chicken will pop beautifully against a white plate.
• Drizzle Extra Sauce: Spoon extra sauce around the chicken on the plate for an elegant look.
• Top with Bacon: Reserve some crispy bacon to sprinkle over the chicken just before serving for added texture and visual appeal.

One-Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken Recipe Tips

• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Simply reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
• Double the Recipe: This dish can easily be doubled to serve a crowd. Just make sure to use a larger skillet or cook the chicken in batches.
• Storing Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well in this recipe. Just increase the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

Q: What can I use instead of sherry?
A: White wine or Marsala are great substitutes for sherry. If you don’t want to use alcohol, you can skip it or use a bit of apple cider vinegar for acidity.

Q: How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
A: Make sure to simmer the sauce over low heat and avoid boiling it. Gradually adding the cream and whisking continuously also helps prevent curdling.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well as they can separate when thawed. It’s best to enjoy this dish fresh.

Conclusion

One-Pan Creamy Bacon Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve to guests. With crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a luscious creamy sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. By following the step-by-step instructions and tips provided, you’ll create a meal that’s not only delicious but also beautifully presented. So, the next time you’re looking for a quick, hearty, and indulgent meal, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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