Easy Creamy Bacon Chicken

Hey there, friend! You’re going to love this Easy Creamy Bacon Chicken recipe—it’s one of those weeknight wonders that never fails to impress. I first whipped this up during a busy weekday, and let me tell you, it felt like a cozy restaurant meal right at my kitchen table. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and that rich, creamy sauce is just irresistible! My husband and I both couldn’t get enough, and even our cat seemed intrigued by the delicious smells wafting in from the kitchen.

The best part? This dish is super simple to make—perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without spending hours slaving over the stove. The flavors are so comforting, and the creamy sauce pairs perfectly with rice or pasta. It’s a total crowd-pleaser, so if you have family or friends over, they’ll be sure to love it too! And if you have leftover bacon from brunch, you’ll definitely want to toss it in. Enjoy!

If you’re looking for another fun chicken dish, you might want to check out my Honey Garlic Chicken—it’s another winner!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Bacon Chicken

• Rich, creamy sauce with a hint of smokiness from crispy bacon
• Perfectly seasoned chicken, tender and juicy every time
• Quick, straightforward recipe for busy weeknights
• Uses simple ingredients easily found in your pantry
• One-pan meal means easy cleanup!
• Customizable: add your favorite veggies like spinach or mushrooms
• Delicious served over mashed potatoes or rice to soak up every drop of sauce

This dish blends the savory flavors of bacon and garlic with a creamy sauce that elevates simple chicken into a restaurant-quality meal at home!

How to Make Easy Creamy Bacon Chicken

This creamy bacon chicken dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser! It’s rich, flavorful, and comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

What You’ll Need:

• Chicken breasts – 4 boneless, skinless breasts. I recommend using organic for a juicier and more flavorful result!
• Salt and pepper – to taste, for seasoning the chicken.
• Bacon – 4 slices, chopped. The crispiness of the bacon adds such a delightful flavor!
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons. I like to use California Olive Ranch for its fresh flavor.
• Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped. This adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Garlic – 3 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is always best for making the dish aromatic!
• Chicken broth – 1 cup. I use Swanson’s for a richer flavor, but any good-quality broth works.
• Heavy cream – 1 cup. I prefer Horizon Organic for a creamy and satisfying sauce.
• Dried thyme – 1 teaspoon. Thyme brings a lovely earthiness to the dish.
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon. It adds a beautiful color and a subtle smoky flavor.
• Grated Parmesan cheese – 1/2 cup. Always go for freshly grated for the best texture and taste!
• Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish. It brightens up the dish and adds a fresh touch!

The Directions:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their flavor.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, keeping those delicious drippings in the pan.
3. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the same skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and let it rest on a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
5. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for about 3-4 minutes.
6. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens up just a bit—it’s going to be so luscious!
7. Return the cooked chicken and half of the crispy bacon to the skillet. Spoon the creamy sauce over the chicken to coat it beautifully.
8. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes to heat through. Before serving, garnish with the remaining bacon and some chopped parsley for that burst of freshness.

Enjoy this creamy delight with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up every last bit of the sauce. And feel free to add in some spinach or mushrooms for a nutritious twist. Happy cooking!

Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce might not be as thick and creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk. If using a thinner milk, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water to help thicken the sauce.

How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper along with the paprika in the sauce. Start with a pinch and adjust to your taste. You could also sauté some diced jalapeños with the onions for an extra kick!

What Should I Do If I Have Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it appears too thick. This will help restore the creamy texture.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s essential to thaw them first for even cooking. The best method is to place them in the fridge overnight. If you’re short on time, you can thaw them quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water. Just be sure to pat them dry before seasoning and cooking!