Creamy Garlic Bacon Chicken

by

Creamy Garlic Bacon Chicken

Description

Creamy Garlic Bacon Chicken is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with smoky bacon, roasted garlic, and a silky, creamy sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. The garlic cream sauce enhances the bacon’s smokiness, creating a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

  • 4 slices bacon, chopped

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 small onion, finely diced

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter

  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Optional for serving: cooked pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.

Instructions

  1. Prep Chicken: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

  2. Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave ~1 tbsp bacon fat in the pan.

  3. Sear Chicken: In the same skillet, add butter and sear chicken breasts over medium-high heat until golden brown, about 5–6 minutes per side, until cooked through (internal temp 165°F / 74°C). Remove and set aside.

  4. Make Garlic Cream Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and onion to the pan and sauté until fragrant and soft, ~2–3 minutes.

  5. Add Cream & Seasoning: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in Parmesan and Italian seasoning. Let simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

  6. Combine Chicken & Bacon: Return chicken and bacon to the skillet. Coat the chicken with the sauce. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to heat through.

  7. Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve hot over your choice of pasta, rice, or vegetables.

Notes

  • Chicken: Using boneless, skinless breasts ensures even cooking, but thighs can be used for juicier results.

  • Bacon: For extra smoky flavor, consider thick-cut bacon.

  • Sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth. If too thin, simmer a bit longer to thicken.

Tips

  • Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing chicken—this ensures a nice golden crust.

  • For garlic lovers, roast an extra clove of garlic and mash it into the sauce for deeper flavor.

  • Serve immediately; the cream sauce thickens as it cools.

Servings

  • 4 servings (1 chicken breast per person)

  • Best paired with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Approximate Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 520 kcal

  • Protein: 38 g

  • Fat: 38 g

  • Saturated Fat: 17 g

  • Carbohydrates: 4 g

  • Fiber: 0.5 g

  • Sugar: 1 g

  • Sodium: 780 mg

Note: Values can vary depending on brands and portion sizes.

Benefits

  • High in Protein: Chicken provides lean protein for muscle repair and satiety.

  • Calcium & Vitamin D: Parmesan and cream contribute calcium and vitamin D for bone health.

  • Healthy Fats: Bacon and cream provide fats that support hormone production and energy.

  • Garlic: Known for cardiovascular benefits and immune support.

Q&A About This Recipe

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, but store chicken and sauce separately. Reheat gently to avoid curdling the cream.

Q: Can I use low-fat cream or milk?
A: You can, but the sauce may be less rich. Thicken with a small amount of cornstarch if needed.

Q: Is this keto-friendly?
A: Absolutely. It’s low-carb and high-fat, perfect for keto diets. Just skip serving with pasta or rice.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, freeze chicken in the sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly over low heat.

Q: How can I make it dairy-free?
A: Use coconut cream or a plant-based cream and a dairy-free cheese substitute.

Leave a Comment