I’m glad to hear your family loved it! Here’s a recipe for a creamy, cheesy chicken dish that’s sure to be a hit. The combination of garlic, thyme, bacon, and cheddar cheese creates a rich and savory flavor that’s absolutely irresistible. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, and it’s simple enough to make any night of the week.
Creamy Cheddar Bacon Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein, providing a tender and juicy base for the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a deep, savory flavor to the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings a subtle earthiness that complements the garlic.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
- 6 slices bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky, salty crunch to the dish.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Enhances the overall garlic flavor in the dish.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Forms the base of the creamy sauce, adding moisture and flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce rich and creamy.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it a velvety texture.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess to the sauce.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient that melts into the sauce, making it cheesy and comforting.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper on both sides.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they are crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Reserve the bacon fat in the skillet.
- Sear the Chicken:
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, sear the seasoned chicken breasts over medium-high heat until they are golden brown on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked at this stage. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet and sauté it until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat them evenly. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the heavy cream, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Everything:
- Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, nestling them into the creamy sauce. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the chicken simmer in the sauce for about 10-15 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Finish with Bacon and Parsley:
- Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve:
- Serve the creamy cheddar bacon chicken hot, with the sauce spooned over the top. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple green salad.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To ensure the chicken remains juicy, avoid overcooking it during the searing process. The final cooking will happen when it’s simmering in the sauce.
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: For the best melt and flavor, shred your own cheddar cheese rather than using pre-shredded, which can contain anti-caking agents that affect the texture.
- Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little more chicken broth or heavy cream.
This Creamy Cheddar Bacon Chicken is comfort food at its finest, combining tender chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce and crispy bacon. It’s a dish that your family will request again and again, and it’s versatile enough to be served with a variety of sides. Enjoy the satisfaction of a delicious home-cooked meal that everyone will love!
