If you’re looking for a simple and delicious meal that’s packed with flavor, look no further than this Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken recipe. Tender chicken breasts are cooked to perfection in a creamy sauce infused with garlic, thyme, and smoky bacon. This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a satisfying meal with minimal effort. Plus, it’s made in the slow cooker, so you can set it and forget it until dinner time rolls around. Let’s dive into the details of how to make this mouthwatering dish!
Creamy Bacon Chicken is a classic comfort food recipe that never fails to impress. With its rich and indulgent flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy sauce makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pan.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
- In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, sear the seasoned chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the remaining bacon drippings. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute to make a roux.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Add the heavy cream and sour cream to the skillet, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
Step 5: Assemble and Cook
- Pour the creamy sauce over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish the Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken with the cooked bacon and chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve hot with your favorite side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix an additional tablespoon of flour with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last hour of cooking.
- Extra Flavor: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices to the sauce, such as rosemary, thyme, or paprika.
- Vegetable Additions: You can bulk up the dish by adding diced vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the sauce.
Keto and Low Carb Version
For a keto-friendly or low-carb version of this recipe, simply omit the all-purpose flour and use a keto-friendly thickener such as xanthan gum or arrowroot powder. Additionally, serve the creamy bacon chicken over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional starches to reduce the carb content.
FAQs
Q: Can I use bone-in chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? A: Yes, bone-in chicken thighs can be used in place of chicken breasts for a juicier and more flavorful result. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the creamy bacon sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave before pouring it over the seared chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the microwave or oven.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Creamy Bacon Chicken is a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just feeding your family on a busy weeknight, this easy-to-make dish is a winner every time. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try today!
