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One-pan creamy chicken and bacon

One-pan creamy chicken and bacon
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One-pan creamy chicken and bacon is a comforting, quick, and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breasts, crispy smoky bacon, and a rich, luscious creamy sauce. Cooked entirely in one pan, it offers an effortless cleanup process while delivering a hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. This versatile recipe pairs well with a variety of sides and is loved by the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 6 bacon strips

Dairy & Fats

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Produce

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1–2 sprigs fresh rosemary or thyme

Seasonings & Spices

  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Cook the Bacon: Fry the bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Once done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate and set aside. Leave the rendered bacon fat in the pan for added flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry and season them with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sear the chicken in the bacon fat over medium-high heat until golden brown on both sides but not fully cooked through. Remove and set aside with the bacon.
  3. Build the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add butter and minced garlic to the same pan and sauté until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce begins to thicken.
  4. Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken and bacon to the pan, nestling them gently into the creamy sauce. Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Cover and simmer on low heat until the chicken is cooked through and flavors meld, about 8–10 minutes.
  5. Finish and Serve: Give everything a final stir, adjust seasoning if needed, and plate the dish, making sure each piece of chicken is coated generously with the luscious sauce.

Notes

  • Pat Dry the Chicken: Ensures a beautiful golden sear without steaming the meat.
  • Don’t Rush the Sauce: Let it simmer enough to thicken gently, creating a silky texture.
  • Rest the Meat: Allow the chicken to rest briefly after cooking to lock in juices.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a huge flavor difference.
  • Adjust Cream Thickness: Add a little chicken broth if the sauce gets too thick before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: one-pan, creamy chicken, bacon, quick dinner, easy recipe, weeknight meal, creamy sauce, comfort food, gluten-free

Find it online: https://marygourmet.com/one-pan-creamy-chicken-and-bacon/